Frye
From Chris (New York, NY):
Q: Hi Channing, What is up? First of all I would like to ask you about your injury and how it is going? I hope it is going well. Another question I would like to ask you is what are your goals in this summer league? What I mean by that is what area of your game are you going to concentrate on in this summer league tournament?
Thank you and good luck! - Chris
A: My knee is 100-percent. Thanks for asking! Being away gave me a real opportunity to appreciate basketball that much more. My goal is to get better everyday. During summer league, I am going to get to execute all of the moves I have been practicing.
From John Lanza (Mamaroneck, NY):
Q: I read that you have bulked up to 260 lbs. in the offseason. How do think this will affect your post game and have you been spending much time on your post moves this offseason? Everyone knows you can shoot, let's see what you can do inside.
A: Yes, I have been working on my post-moves. I have been working on my total game trying to become more of a complete player for the Knicks.
From Derek (Charlotte, NC):
Q: Are there any negatives to adding the additional 20 lbs. It certainly helps your power game but how will it affect your agility? A: I have actually gained 15 pounds of muscle and that will help me with my agility and explosiveness on the court. I have been working with our strength coach, Greg Brittenham, all summer and he gotten me in great shape.
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Balkman
From Mark Magg (Hastings, NY):
Q: What inspired you to be so dominant in last year's SEC tournament and the NIT, and what have your learned from those experiences that you will carry over to the pros as a Knick?
A: I approached those tournaments the same way I approach every game, and that’s to play hard. I play every game like it’s my last, so that is what I did in the SEC and NIT tournaments.
From Derek (Charlotte, NC):
Q: How do you think the controversy surrounding you being picked 20th in the draft is going affect your game or your approach to the game?
PS: We Knick fans love an underdog and we love hustle players. You fit both bills, good luck. I'm rooting for you.
A: A lot of people doubted me, but I had made my mind up that I was ready for the NBA. The Knicks are going to be proud that they picked me. I promise to work hard every minute I’m on the floor.
From Steven Ortiz (Bronx, NY):
Q: Where were you when your name was called by Commissioner David Stern? I don't remember seeing you at the Garden!
A: I was at my apartment with all of my family - about 15 of us. We had a nice barbecue. Before you knew it, they called my name. It was real silent at first, then there were lots of screaming. Everyone was so excited. I think we woke up the whole complex.
From Stacy Duviella (Brooklyn, NY):
Q: N.Y is the toughest place to play so what is it about your game that will make Knicks fans fall in love with you?
A: The intensity I play with will turn the fans on. I have a nose for the ball – if the ball goes nine rows up, I am going to go get it.
From Ryan (Hong Kong, China):
Q: Who is the person you looked up to growing up? A: I always looked up to my father, Michael Balkman. Playing basketball with him and the older guys growing up gave me the heart to play with anybody.
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Lee
From Fred Lujan (Perth Amboy, NJ):
Q: What are your personal goals for the upcoming season? What areas did you focus on improving this summer?
A: I need to improve my jumper and all the skills to play the small forward. Isiah wants me to do that in the off-season, and that’s what I have been working on.
From Z Prince (Brooklyn, NY):
Q: Which Position are you looking forward to playing, the 3 or 4? Since you're really good at both, which position you feel best helps the team?
A: I will play any position that gets me on the floor. I am a basketball player. It doesn’t matter what position they have me playing. Where ever they want me to lineup, is great.
From Anthony Parrino (Port Chester, NY):
Q: David, last year you became a fan favorite due to your hustle and energy on the court. If only your desire could rub off on some of the older players on the team. Last year you led by example, do you see yourself being more vocal this year to try and inspire others? A: Yes I do. It is something Isiah has talked to me about. To be more of a leader now that I am a veteran player is something I need to do.
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Collins
From Nick Lombardi (Philadelphia, PA):
Q: Mardy, I have had season tickets since your junior year at Temple and know your ability quite well. My questions about your ability to step up your game for big games was easily put to rest when you dropped 28 on Duke despite leaving the game with an ankle injury. So my question for you is, how are you going to handle the New York media and fans who were disappointed with the Knicks pick and do not know you or your ability quite as well as people like me?
A: I really respect the New York media – they have a very important job to do. I am going to handle the New York media like I handled the Philadelphia media the same way. Philadelphia is a big town too, so I am sure I’ll be fine.
From David Guzman (New York City)
Q: Leadership is of great importance. In this city we've had great leaders on the Knicks. I've heard how you have a sort of "Cool Hand Luke" way about you in regards to your quick and efficient decision making skills, which is something we definitely need. Do you feel you'll be able to become a micro-manager on this particular team?, and Do you think you can bring this team together in every aspect of the game in order to achieve one goal?, whether that be a playoff appearance or a vast improvement over last season. I know it's a bit much to ask of a first year player, but we need NYK to return to it's original form. I wish y'all the best.
A: I plan on bringing my hard-working attitude to the New York Knicks. My teammates will see how hard I work and I am sure that will rub-off on everyone.
From Bernard Aguinaldo (Bristol, CT):
Q: Mardy, with an already full backcourt, what do you have to do to crack the rotation? I wish you success for the upcoming season.
A: I just have to work really hard and I have to shoot the ball well. I have to show the coaches all of my abilities and do what they tell me to improve my game. And hopefully, that leads to a shot in the rotation.
From Pedro Ortega (Guaynabo, Puerto Rico):
Q: What area of your game will surprise everyone (fans, teammates and opponents) in your rookie season? A: I think people will be surprised by my athletic ability, I am pretty athletic and I can get up and down the floor. I can fill the lanes, hit open men and get to the basket.
http://aol.nba.com/knicks/news/vslmailbag_0607.html
Enjoy!
NBA.com Q&A: Frye, Lee, Balkman, Collins
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