Today was media day for the men's basketball team. Things started off with a Kelvin Sampson press conference and then the players took team photos. Afterwards, we were able to catch up with several of the Hoosiers. (NOTE: No freshman nor A.J. Ratliff were allowed to speak to the media today. Coach Sampson has a policy regarding freshmen interaction with the media. He did say today he will grant access as the season progresses).
Lance Stemler On differences from this time last year "I think that everyone was a little uncomfortable coming into last season with Coach Sampson because we really didn't know what to expect. This year, we definitely know what to expect coming into practice. It will definitely help move things quicker than last year."
On the incoming players "They all stand out, they are all talented. They handled conditioning better than I would have. Our conditioning is nothing to mess with and they made it through."
On DeAndre Thomas "He has a low post-presence. He can score on the block. He's just good at using his body and using the angles. He will definitely help us."
His role as a leader in keeping the team level-headed with all the hype "We are just trying to preach one practice, one game at a time. We wont let everyone buy into all the hype. Just come to every workout and get better."
On Coach Sampson "Everyone thinks they play hard, but Coach Sampson's idea is at a whole another level."
Discussing his recovery this summer from ankle surgery "This summer I've been in the gym everyday with different coaches to recover from the surgery. I definitely feel better now than I did at the end of last season."
His expectations for the team "We have a chance to be good. We are deep at every position this year, so every game you don't know who is going to turn out to be the guy. I am just excited about this season."
D.J. White On starting the season "We are ready to get the season started. I am excited for this team. Practice starts Saturday, so we are ready to go."
His thoughts on Jamarcus Ellis "He is probably the most unselfish person on the team. All he wants to do is pass the ball, that's what he wants to do. He's a great rebounder, too."
Armon Bassett Talking about team chemistry "The guys all fit right in. I don't think we are going to have any problems this year. Everyone loves each other and appreciates each other."
On DeAndre Thomas "I know it has helped his confidence off the court. He is always dressing good when he is going to class. He thinks it's helping his confidence with the ladies and stuff. I know he feels good. Nobody worked harder than Dre this summer. He was probably putting in 10 extra miles a day to get that weight off. He is a very good player and he deserved to lose that weight."
Adam Ahlfeld His reaction to getting a scholarship this season "It is hard to describe when Coach Sampson first came up and told me I was going to be put on scholarship. It's just an honor to be able to wear the uniform in the first place. As a walk on or a scholarship player, it's still the same, but it's definitely appreciated not having to pay for school this year. I am very appreciative of it and very thankful Coach Sampson decided to do that."
