Shammond's Interview
This interview was made to answer most people's questions who write
Shammond. The list of questions was compiled by determining the most
common questions in the e-mail letters. This list could be added to at
any point, so you may want to skim over these questions every once in a
while:
The 1996-97 Interview:
Question: What do you feel has changed about you most since last year?
Answer: I think I have become a mature person, and I've grown mentally
as well as physically.
Q: With Jeff McInnis gone, do you feel that leadership is an added
responsibility now that many expect you to take over at point guard?
A: Yes, I have always tried to lead even when Jeff was here. I have
tried to be an example anyway I could when I have had the opportunity.
Q: What was going through your mind as you scored 26 points against
Duke in Cameron?
A: When Coach Smith gave me the so-called "Green Light," told me not
to worry about the shots, and to take the guy if I could, I was just
happy to be in that situation.
Q: What does it feel like to attempt a game-winning shot?
A: There is no thought involved. If you are losing, you have no
choice. It's more of a job because somebody has to do it.
Q: How has this web page affected your college career?
A: It's been a great thing. I have been able to keep in touch with
friends and fans. It has really been a success, and my teammates
and I have enjoyed it.
Q: What's your greatest strength?
A: Helping everyone around me become better players.
Q: What areas do you see yourself as needing improvement?
A: Confidence and leadership.
Q: Who has given you the most vital support?
A: My mother, my uncle, Dan Peterson, Coach Arritt, my family, and
Coach Smith.
Q: How do you feel about being constantly underrated?
A: That's been something that I've always gone through. I can only
continually improve and, hopefully, I'll get what I deserve one day.
Q: How would you like to be remembered when your college career is
over?
A: I want to be known as a great person, and someone that everyone
can relate to.
The 1995-96 Interview:
Question: How old were you when you first start playing basketball?
Answer: I started at the YMCA when I was about 6.
Q: When did you first get the idea that you were good enough to play for a
Division I team?
A: I was playing at Fork Union and was visited by several scouts from
various schools. About a week later, I was visited by coaches like Coach
Smith and Rick Pitino. Suddenly, I had scholarship offers from 14 major
universities, such as Penn State, Kentucky, and, of course, UNC.
Q: Besides basketball, do you have any other hobbies?
A: I love music, specifically playing drums.
Q: On average, how much time do you spend everyday just practicing
basketball?
A: 3 hours or so.....
Q: What is the highest source of pressure in regards to playing for UNC?
A: Living up to expectations, even through limitations like the
freshmen system......
Q: As you know, there are many letters concerning Duke. What are your
personal feelings towards Duke players?
A: Off the court, we are best of friends, but on the court....On the
court we hate each other more than anyone else imaginable.
Q: If you could play for any NBA team, what team would it be?
A: I would be happy on any team. (on second thought, he adds) Maybe
the Lakers....
Q: How do you feel about players leaving for the NBA before they graduate?
A: If the opportunity is there, it is just a personal decision.
Q: What would be your personal decision?
A: I want to graduate.
Q: What is your opinion of the team this year?
A: I realize, as we all do, that the team is in an entirely different
situation with Donald, Jerry, and Rasheed gone, but we still have Coach
Smith. Thankfully, the freshmen have all shown impressive skills. I know
we can still do well and hope UNC fans feel the same.
Q: That question was the last, so do you have any final comments to make?
A: Yes, I thank everyone for reading this interview and visiting my page.