I'm surprised no one has posted this yet. It was on Suns.com. I think Bryan Colangelo is probably a better read and anybody with these Internet chats... at least for a Phoenix Suns fan.
Chat Transcript: President Bryan Colangelo
Sept. 29, 2003
It's become a tradition this time of year, as much a part of training camp as two-a-day workouts. For the fifth straight season, Bryan Colangelo participated in a live online chat with Phoenix fans on Suns.com. The Suns' president and general manager is coming off a relatively quiet offseason, especially compared to recent years when he has acquired All-Star talent the likes of Tom Gugliotta, Penny Hardaway and Stephon Marbury.
There was the NBA Draft, of course, where the Suns tabbed Serbian forward Zarko Cabarkapa and traded for Brazilian playmaker Leandro Barbosa. And there was the matter of re-signing big men Jake Voskuhl and Scott Williams, two key role players on last year's squad.
But Colangelo's top priority this summer was keeping the Suns? core intact. A core that features two All-Stars in Marbury and Shawn Marion, and the Rookie of the Year in Amaré Stoudemire. A core that was also the surprise of the NBA in 2002-03, not only reaching the playoffs, but giving the eventual champion Spurs a run for their money.
Colangelo answered questions about his talented trio and the upcoming NBA season. The following is a transcript of that chat session.
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Justin (Norman): So far it seems that Joe Johnson has not really lived up to his potential. How is his progress coming, and do u forsee him having a breakout season?
We are very pleased with the development of Joe Johnson. After being the 10th pick two years ago he had great expectations. But the reality with most young players is that it takes time to get a comfort level. In addition, he came in as a 20-year-old player and is just 22 as he enters his third season. He had what we would call a brilliant summer in terms of his development. We think he will be more consistent for us this year. Joe clearly has the talent to excel at this game, the only question has been consistency.
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Jimmy (Corona): Hey Bryan, Have you seen "The Matrix" this summer yet and has his extra muscle he put on affected his speed and ability to slash to the hoop?
The Matrix is definitely reloaded. Adding 14 pounds of muscle has not only made him more aggressive but more physical. The added weight has given him more confidence. He intends to go to the free throw line more this year. I've always argued that the Matrix is so quick off his feet that he really is untouchable at times, because of his elusiveness and athleticism. But Shawn is really coming into his own as a young man and a basketball player, and is arguably the most versatile small forward in the game.
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Rhett Reese (Los Angeles): Bryan, Amare spent a lot of time out after toe surgery. In what ways did he work on his skills during that time? Can we expect his game to have developed in any way?
In addition to the foot surgery he had Lasik surgery in his eyes. Midway through the season we noticed he had an eye problem that we wanted to address in the offseason. As Amare will tell you, with his new vision his jump shot will be as sweet as ever. In all seriousness, his offseason has been very productive as he recharged during the downtime. He got himself mentally ready for year No. 2. For the last month and a half he has been working with our coaches on his jumper and post play, and he doesn't appear to be slowed at all after the foot surgery. This is great news for Amare and the Suns.
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Peter V (Garden Grove): I'm a big Suns fan, even though I live in the core of Lakers world. My question is what kind of roles will Barbosa and Cabarkapa play in the big picture for the Phoenix Suns? Thank you for your time
It's likely that Zarko will make an immediate impact in that his versatility, length and ability fits our team. He is not only an outside threat but someone who can move the basketball up the floor. Physically he'll struggle his first few years, but what he lacks in strength he picks up in skill. We think he will get minutes early in the rotation. Leandro, on the other hand, comes in with less professional experience but talent enough to prompt his draft selection. We feel that from a conditioning standpoint and knowledge of the game standpoint Leandro has more to accomplish before making a great impact.
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Chad Zumock, Cleveland, Ohio: Mr. Colangelo, Some people are saying the Phoenix Suns have struck gold and found the best kept secret in guard Trevor Huffman. Being on the east coast, I've had the privilege of watching this kid destroy teams by hitting big shot after big shot. To my understanding his work ethic is second to none and he is a quality person to go along with it. What are the chances of him making the team for the regular season, even though the Suns are stocked at the guard position?
First of all I'd like to give credit to Dan Majerle for bringing Trevor in here, by forcing the issue and having him join us in Phoenix. During his brief time here he has shown the ability to knock down shots and make plays, which makes him a good addition to our training camp roster. With 13 guaranteed roster spots, it is unlikely he'll make the team, but the experience should help him reach his goal of making an NBA roster.
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Chris New York: You didn't make any moves as far as the center position is concerned. Is that because Big Jake is completly healthy? And if so how good do you think he is going to be this year?
The big move that was made was the resigning of Jake Voskuhl and Scott Williams. Our three-tiered center group was solidified by those signings. Jake Tsakalidis has spent a great deal of time getting physically ready and the most immediate challenge for him was getting ready for playing for the Greek team, where he had a good tournament. That bodes well for Jake and for Greece as they get ready for the Olympics. Each year we have seen Jake make a move developmental-wise and he is poised to continue that this year.
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awesome suns fan (phoenix): hey, how's steph doing after his ankle surgery? is he lookin a lot better?
He is recovered very well from double ankle surgery and has had a summer very similar to last year, as far as his overall approach to the rehab and therapy of his ankles. The results last season were phenomonal and he was equally dedicated this year to prepare for this season. Stephon senses that this team has a chance to be very good and he is feeding off of that reality.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chris - Lausanne, Switzerland: I am a fan e-mailing from Switzerland. I have been following the team for a while not, and was very excited when Penny Hardaway became part of the team. Injuries and age may have taken the better part of his game, but do you think that he will be able to return to a level similar to what the Suns bought when they signed him, or will he be dangled as trade bait? If you use my question, thanks for your time.
Penny has defiinitely had a few frustrating seasons throughout the course of his career, but overall he seems poised to finish strong, as it relates to his current contract, which has three years remaining. He was in Los Angeles this summer working with the same individual who worked with Stephon at the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). All reports say he looks great. Stephon called me one day in August, saying Penny looked unbelievable. His impact on our team last year was evident in that our club was much calmer in its approach with him in the lineup. Unfortunately, we slipped up when he went down with the thumb injury. He deserves credit for deferring to our younger stars like Stephon and Shawn, which helped allow them to excel, which was the best scenario for our team.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pat, Phoenix: What is your favorite memory of growing up a Suns kid and being around the team?
It had to be as a ball kid in 1975-76 when the Suns went to the playoffs and, much to everyone's surprise, reached the Finals against Boston. In what is still regarded as the most exciting game in NBA history, Game 5 stands out as a wonderful memory. But that experience really solidified my interest in this game. The organization got a taste of success, which we hope to achieve more of in the future. But the most memorable experience within that Finals series related to the fight between Ricky Sobers and Kevin Stacom. I was literally 10 feet away from Ricky's headlock and subsequent pounding of Kevin. Lets just say it left an indelible mark about what the heat of competition can bring out.
Thank you to all the Suns' fans who wrote in today and for your general interest and consideration of our ballclub. The 2003-04 season is one that our entire organization and apparently the fans of Phoenix are very excited about. We hope to continue the growth and development of this exciting young core of players we have brought together, and I would like to give specific credit to the coaching staff of Frank Johnson, Mike D'Antoni, Marc Iavaroni, Tim Grgurich and Phil Weber for molding this group into the product you see on the floor. Everything we do this year is going to be about effort, emotion, energy and excitement. We hope that you join us in that effort.
Chat Transcript: President Bryan Colangelo
Sept. 29, 2003
It's become a tradition this time of year, as much a part of training camp as two-a-day workouts. For the fifth straight season, Bryan Colangelo participated in a live online chat with Phoenix fans on Suns.com. The Suns' president and general manager is coming off a relatively quiet offseason, especially compared to recent years when he has acquired All-Star talent the likes of Tom Gugliotta, Penny Hardaway and Stephon Marbury.
There was the NBA Draft, of course, where the Suns tabbed Serbian forward Zarko Cabarkapa and traded for Brazilian playmaker Leandro Barbosa. And there was the matter of re-signing big men Jake Voskuhl and Scott Williams, two key role players on last year's squad.
But Colangelo's top priority this summer was keeping the Suns? core intact. A core that features two All-Stars in Marbury and Shawn Marion, and the Rookie of the Year in Amaré Stoudemire. A core that was also the surprise of the NBA in 2002-03, not only reaching the playoffs, but giving the eventual champion Spurs a run for their money.
Colangelo answered questions about his talented trio and the upcoming NBA season. The following is a transcript of that chat session.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Justin (Norman): So far it seems that Joe Johnson has not really lived up to his potential. How is his progress coming, and do u forsee him having a breakout season?
We are very pleased with the development of Joe Johnson. After being the 10th pick two years ago he had great expectations. But the reality with most young players is that it takes time to get a comfort level. In addition, he came in as a 20-year-old player and is just 22 as he enters his third season. He had what we would call a brilliant summer in terms of his development. We think he will be more consistent for us this year. Joe clearly has the talent to excel at this game, the only question has been consistency.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jimmy (Corona): Hey Bryan, Have you seen "The Matrix" this summer yet and has his extra muscle he put on affected his speed and ability to slash to the hoop?
The Matrix is definitely reloaded. Adding 14 pounds of muscle has not only made him more aggressive but more physical. The added weight has given him more confidence. He intends to go to the free throw line more this year. I've always argued that the Matrix is so quick off his feet that he really is untouchable at times, because of his elusiveness and athleticism. But Shawn is really coming into his own as a young man and a basketball player, and is arguably the most versatile small forward in the game.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rhett Reese (Los Angeles): Bryan, Amare spent a lot of time out after toe surgery. In what ways did he work on his skills during that time? Can we expect his game to have developed in any way?
In addition to the foot surgery he had Lasik surgery in his eyes. Midway through the season we noticed he had an eye problem that we wanted to address in the offseason. As Amare will tell you, with his new vision his jump shot will be as sweet as ever. In all seriousness, his offseason has been very productive as he recharged during the downtime. He got himself mentally ready for year No. 2. For the last month and a half he has been working with our coaches on his jumper and post play, and he doesn't appear to be slowed at all after the foot surgery. This is great news for Amare and the Suns.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Peter V (Garden Grove): I'm a big Suns fan, even though I live in the core of Lakers world. My question is what kind of roles will Barbosa and Cabarkapa play in the big picture for the Phoenix Suns? Thank you for your time
It's likely that Zarko will make an immediate impact in that his versatility, length and ability fits our team. He is not only an outside threat but someone who can move the basketball up the floor. Physically he'll struggle his first few years, but what he lacks in strength he picks up in skill. We think he will get minutes early in the rotation. Leandro, on the other hand, comes in with less professional experience but talent enough to prompt his draft selection. We feel that from a conditioning standpoint and knowledge of the game standpoint Leandro has more to accomplish before making a great impact.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chad Zumock, Cleveland, Ohio: Mr. Colangelo, Some people are saying the Phoenix Suns have struck gold and found the best kept secret in guard Trevor Huffman. Being on the east coast, I've had the privilege of watching this kid destroy teams by hitting big shot after big shot. To my understanding his work ethic is second to none and he is a quality person to go along with it. What are the chances of him making the team for the regular season, even though the Suns are stocked at the guard position?
First of all I'd like to give credit to Dan Majerle for bringing Trevor in here, by forcing the issue and having him join us in Phoenix. During his brief time here he has shown the ability to knock down shots and make plays, which makes him a good addition to our training camp roster. With 13 guaranteed roster spots, it is unlikely he'll make the team, but the experience should help him reach his goal of making an NBA roster.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chris New York: You didn't make any moves as far as the center position is concerned. Is that because Big Jake is completly healthy? And if so how good do you think he is going to be this year?
The big move that was made was the resigning of Jake Voskuhl and Scott Williams. Our three-tiered center group was solidified by those signings. Jake Tsakalidis has spent a great deal of time getting physically ready and the most immediate challenge for him was getting ready for playing for the Greek team, where he had a good tournament. That bodes well for Jake and for Greece as they get ready for the Olympics. Each year we have seen Jake make a move developmental-wise and he is poised to continue that this year.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
awesome suns fan (phoenix): hey, how's steph doing after his ankle surgery? is he lookin a lot better?
He is recovered very well from double ankle surgery and has had a summer very similar to last year, as far as his overall approach to the rehab and therapy of his ankles. The results last season were phenomonal and he was equally dedicated this year to prepare for this season. Stephon senses that this team has a chance to be very good and he is feeding off of that reality.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chris - Lausanne, Switzerland: I am a fan e-mailing from Switzerland. I have been following the team for a while not, and was very excited when Penny Hardaway became part of the team. Injuries and age may have taken the better part of his game, but do you think that he will be able to return to a level similar to what the Suns bought when they signed him, or will he be dangled as trade bait? If you use my question, thanks for your time.
Penny has defiinitely had a few frustrating seasons throughout the course of his career, but overall he seems poised to finish strong, as it relates to his current contract, which has three years remaining. He was in Los Angeles this summer working with the same individual who worked with Stephon at the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). All reports say he looks great. Stephon called me one day in August, saying Penny looked unbelievable. His impact on our team last year was evident in that our club was much calmer in its approach with him in the lineup. Unfortunately, we slipped up when he went down with the thumb injury. He deserves credit for deferring to our younger stars like Stephon and Shawn, which helped allow them to excel, which was the best scenario for our team.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Pat, Phoenix: What is your favorite memory of growing up a Suns kid and being around the team?
It had to be as a ball kid in 1975-76 when the Suns went to the playoffs and, much to everyone's surprise, reached the Finals against Boston. In what is still regarded as the most exciting game in NBA history, Game 5 stands out as a wonderful memory. But that experience really solidified my interest in this game. The organization got a taste of success, which we hope to achieve more of in the future. But the most memorable experience within that Finals series related to the fight between Ricky Sobers and Kevin Stacom. I was literally 10 feet away from Ricky's headlock and subsequent pounding of Kevin. Lets just say it left an indelible mark about what the heat of competition can bring out.
Thank you to all the Suns' fans who wrote in today and for your general interest and consideration of our ballclub. The 2003-04 season is one that our entire organization and apparently the fans of Phoenix are very excited about. We hope to continue the growth and development of this exciting young core of players we have brought together, and I would like to give specific credit to the coaching staff of Frank Johnson, Mike D'Antoni, Marc Iavaroni, Tim Grgurich and Phil Weber for molding this group into the product you see on the floor. Everything we do this year is going to be about effort, emotion, energy and excitement. We hope that you join us in that effort.
We will have about 6 guys play venter for the first 20 games or so before we find our best one.
