Quincy Pondexter Interview, Part II
As most fans know, much will be expected from Quincy this season if the Dawgs hope to make up for the loss of Jon Brockman and build upon last year’s fantastic season. . .
Montlake Madness: This is a deep, deep team, as many have said. And Coach has agreed that at least one or two guys will probably be left out of the regular rotation. As a team leader, what do you say to a guy, whomever it is, that maybe is a little down about his lack of playing time?
Quincy Pondexter: I’d tell him to fight through adversity. Most of us on the team have been through ups and downs, and you have to support the team when you’re down. Just because someone is playing harder than you, you don’t have to bend down and submit to it. You have to get out and work harder yourself. I think it’s great to see guys out there pushing hard for a spot on the team.
MM: Anyone been a pleasant surprise in workouts so far, as far as major improvement?
QP: Our team collectively is going to surprise people. But, I can’t pinpoint anyone specifically yet. As we get closer, we’ll know a little more. Ask me in a few weeks.
MM: If you had to guess, what’s the starting five on opening night?
QP: That’s tough. Matthew would have a spot, Darnell, Quincy, Isaiah. Either Venoy or Abdul.
MM: This might sound crazy, but is it every single player’s goal to earn a starting spot?
QP: Yes. 90 to 99 percent of players want to play in the NBA. I don’t think anyone wants to come and sit on the bench. Starting is a significant goal.
MM: Explain the dynamic of the battle for the starting point guard spot between Venoy Overton and Abdul Gaddy.
QP: You know, you could start Isaiah (at the point) too and have Elston (Turner) or Justin (Holiday) start. There are many ways to twist the lineup and great possibilities. Elston and Justin are great and give our team a big lineup. You never know until the season starts.
MM: Do you see yourself playing more minutes at the small forward spot, or power forward?
QP: It doesn’t matter to me, honestly. I spent time this summer as a two guard. I’ve played the four. I’ve played the five. I’ve had to guard ones. I can’t really pinpoint a position. I just know I’ll be on the court.
MM: What’s your dream scenario after the season? The Huskies have won the national championship. What happens next? What team drafts Quincy Pondexter?
QP: I would say any team on the west coast. Maybe, Portland or Los Angeles. It would be great to play with Kobe or B-Roy. Other than that, it could be anywhere as long as I get to wear the jersey with Jerry West on the front.
MM: What are your favorite places to eat in Seattle?
QP: I have three favorite spots. I go to Georgio’s Subs for lunch every day for sub sandwiches. And, I have dinner at Varlamos almost every night. And, then late night, either Jet City Pizza or Pagliacci. Seattle food has been good to my body.
MM: If you’re Coach Romar, what’s your biggest challenge going into this season?
QP: I think he doesn’t have many. He has a team ready to come out and play, and win. He’s got to keep everyone focused on every single game — even ones you may not think mean a lot.
MM: What’s the one thing that a fan wouldn’t know about being an NCAA D-I ballplayer that isn’t apparent on TV or when you read the newspapers?
QP: We’re normal people just like them. Seeing us on TV or any of that, or in public, really doesn’t do it justice to how we are as people. We joke around, go out and have fun. We try to be normal kids. Come hang out for 24 hours. I’ll show you what it’s really like.
MM: I’m gonna take you up on that. It’ll make for a great post.
QP: Alright then. Cool.
Hey, thanks for coming!