Hi guys,

First of all, I want to thank all my fans for reading the blog. I was overwhelmed by all the positive comments to the first post and just wanted to let you know that I will continue to work hard to get back in the league and make NC State proud.

Now let's focus on what I've been doing... Last week, I was with Vince Carter in his camp and had a really good time working with him there. You hear all the critics talking about how he doesn't seem to care and then you spent time with him... And well, I'll tell you one thing: Don't believe the haters. He didn't  become a star in the NBA for no reason. Being around him, you can see that he's a consummate pro and that he puts a lot of effort in his workouts. Besides, he's a truly likable and personable guy that's always trying to help. Down the road, I would like to be a little being like him. You know, the veteran guy who tries to teach stuff to the young players.

Vince is not the only NBA guy I've been around recently. Most nights, I take part on 5-on-5 games in the New York Athletic Club with players like Emeka  Okafor, Mike Dunleavy, Troy Murphy or Allan Houston. Marko Jaric is there, too. No Adriana Lima, though.

(I've been playing very well, I might add).

My free agency situation hasn't changed much. We're sticking to Plan A, which is trying to make the Nets team. There's still interest from another couple of clubs willing to invite me for their training camps, but I like New Jersey better. My agent is doing his homework and listening to teams from outside the NBA,  but me going overseas looks like a long shot right now. The NBA option looks very good at this moment.

Like most of you, I'm spending a lot of time in front of TV watching the Olympics. I've seen a lot of swimming and discovered one sport that didn't know much  about: slalom kayaking. Truly enjoyed it. I have even thought about taking it up as a hobby. Although on second thought, the NBA people probably wouldn't want you doing that.

Obviously, I'm also paying a lot of attention to the U.S. basketball team. They are really getting the job done, winning all their games convincingly. D-Wade is looking impressive. Looks like the D-Wade of old.

I would love to play at the Olympic Games one day. If not with the United States, I would be open to playing for another country, just like Chris Kaman did. I  don't get how some people call him a traitor. What's a player to do if he gets a chance to be at something as big as the Olympic Games? I don't think you can pass on that. To me, as an athlete, it's just a no-brainer.

Talk to you next week. Bye!