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Shaquille
O'Neal: "When you are 60, hang out with 60-year-olds, not 20-year-olds.
That is all I got to say about Jerry Buss."
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HoopsHype.com Interviews Kareem
Rush: "Phil has confidence in me"
Kareem Rush: Our talents were hidden because we're behind so many great players. We didn't get a chance to showcase our abilities, but now it's out in the open and we're still learning to play with each other. So it will take some time, but as long as we keep working, we'll be fine. How has getting more minutes helped your confidence? KR: With those guys out, we've had a chance to step in and play some heavy minutes. And hopefully in crunch time -- even though we don't play heavy minutes all the time -- we can step in there and be able to contribute. And that's what we're going to do. Your game has really stepped up in the absence of the stars. What’s been the difference? KR: Nothing, I still approach the game the same way. Be aggressive. Take my shots when the opportunities present themselves, and just be aggressive all the time. I'm having fun playing with my teammates, and hopefully I can continue to improve. The coaching staff takes pride in the development of its young players. I know you have worked extensively with assistant coach Jim Cleamons. What has he taught you? KR: It's just about being a professional. Using my athletic ability to help further my play. Not just shooting the ball, but playing defense and trying to become an all-around better player. I love him. He does a great job with us young guys. He's a blessing. With Kobe missing games, you’ve gotten the opportunity to start this season for the first time in your NBA career. When you are in that role and you know the team is depending on your points, do you go into the game with a goal in mind? KR: No, not at all. I'll take if they are there. If they're not, I'm not going to force anything. I don't have that luxury to force shots yet. I just go out there and take the open ones. Try to create when I can and just be aggressive. Of course, your primary role is to provide some instant offense off the bench. Do you see yourself as a spark plug for this team? KR: Hopefully. If I get in the game, I'm just going to keep firing it. If they go in, I'm going to keep on doing it. I think coach wants me to do that. I'm going to keep on doing the same thing. Does the term “green
light” mean anything to you? KR: Yeah, I had it back in college (Missouri). I don't have it here yet, but Phil has confidence in me. But hopefully, I don't take too much advantage of that. Just take my shot when I'm open and knock that shot down. That's my job. Michael Eaves covers the NBA for FOX Sports West in Southern California. You can reach him at meaves@foxsports.net Tell us what you think about this interview. E-mail us at HoopsHype@HoopsHype.com _____________________ |
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