US Presswire

What do you think has been the key for your growth as a player to become an All-Star?

Roy Hibbert: Just knowing that hard work pays off. You're not always gonna have a media impact, so it takes time.

Dropping weight was a key thing too, I guess.

RH: I dropped weight last year, I put on like 15 pounds of muscle this summer. So I think I'm more of a banger than a quick guy, so I'm good with that.

Can you talk a little bit about the coaching change last year?

RH: The Jim O'Brien thing wasn't working for us. He's a good coach, he had success with other teams he coached, he gave me a chance to be a starting center in this league, but it just wasn't working out. The coach we have now, Frank Vogel, he's being great. He's really vocal and really hands-on.

What would be a realistic goal for the Pacers this year?

RH: Deep in the playoffs. Then we'll go from there.

Would you add anything to your team right now?

RH: I think we're great. Whatever Larry [Bird] wants to do he can do... Probably he's going to bring another center [laughs].

You negotiated a potential contract extension this season. Were you disappointed that you didn't get one?

RH: No, my agent, myself we talked over some things. We wanted to get a different deal, so we're gonna wait till the summer to figure that out.

Were those stressful days for you?

RH: No, I leave that things to my agent. I know what type of player I am, what I bring to the table and hopefully Indiana will reward me. I just want something that is fair for both sides.

What kind of deal are you shooting for?

RH: I don't want to get into that. It's up to my agent. You'll find out when I'll find out.

I guess Indy would be your first option...

RH: Oh yeah, I wanna stay in Indiana. I love the town, the fans, everybody.

You did a little bit of acting in Parks and Recreation. How was the experience?

RH: It was great, the hardest thing to do was remembering lines... It's something I would like to do when my career is over.

Did you have any doubts about staying four years in college?

RH: There were people saying I was stupid for staying in college for four years, that I lost a opportunity... But I felt I had a great chance to develop my game, develop mentally, graduate and get my degree.