Post by on Jan 15, 2006 23:22:07 GMT -5
Best 6th Man?
Shawn Marion has always seen himself as a starter. Starting was always a big deal growing up, playing HS ball, even in college. It meant alot to be out there from the opening tip. "The adrenaline starts pumping an hour before the game, so its good to get out there right from the start and get goin," Marion says. "Get in the flow of the game, break a set, and try to establish momentum, thats what Ive always strived to do."
Marion has started throughout his BBS career, winning various honors such as All-League defense, multiple All Star appearances and even a championship with Utah. He had grown accustomed to it, almost taking it for granted. "When youre young, you dont really think about evovling as a player. You dont think about how your role may change," says Marion. "You play in the present, and never look to the future, and I guess thats why coming off the bench now doesnt seem like a big deal. Its whats right now. It just feels right to be here in Orlando, filling the role they need me to fill."
And filling it he is. Playing solid defense at 3 different positions and scoring off the bench has been huge in Orlandos fast start. He has been a perfect fit in Orlandos chaotic fast break offense, filling the lane on fast breaks, and getting open perimeter shots when players like Larry Bird or Kevin Garnett get double teamed.
"I can see myself staying here, retiring here. I want to win another championship, and sacrificing a spot in the starting 5, or even minutes is worth it, if I get another ring," a smiling Marion says,"itd all be worth it for one more ring, maybe even two."
Orlando originally wanted to turn around and move Marion right after acquiring him from Sacramento. "We had heard rumors he had slowed down," GM Spencer Martin said, "so although we wanted to get Fat in here, we were a little worried about moving Marion and that big contract. But Shawn came in and played like he was 25 again. It was a big surprise to us, and hes fit right in. At this point Id feel comfortable sticking with Shawn even after KG retires."
Its obvious Marion is a perfect fit for Orlandos frantic offense. Sometimes it seems almost out of control, but it seems to work for all parties involved, and Marion seems happy. When asked about his chances at the 6th man award, Marion says, "Sure, but it wont matter if we dont win the title."
Shawn Marion has always seen himself as a starter. Starting was always a big deal growing up, playing HS ball, even in college. It meant alot to be out there from the opening tip. "The adrenaline starts pumping an hour before the game, so its good to get out there right from the start and get goin," Marion says. "Get in the flow of the game, break a set, and try to establish momentum, thats what Ive always strived to do."
Marion has started throughout his BBS career, winning various honors such as All-League defense, multiple All Star appearances and even a championship with Utah. He had grown accustomed to it, almost taking it for granted. "When youre young, you dont really think about evovling as a player. You dont think about how your role may change," says Marion. "You play in the present, and never look to the future, and I guess thats why coming off the bench now doesnt seem like a big deal. Its whats right now. It just feels right to be here in Orlando, filling the role they need me to fill."
And filling it he is. Playing solid defense at 3 different positions and scoring off the bench has been huge in Orlandos fast start. He has been a perfect fit in Orlandos chaotic fast break offense, filling the lane on fast breaks, and getting open perimeter shots when players like Larry Bird or Kevin Garnett get double teamed.
"I can see myself staying here, retiring here. I want to win another championship, and sacrificing a spot in the starting 5, or even minutes is worth it, if I get another ring," a smiling Marion says,"itd all be worth it for one more ring, maybe even two."
Orlando originally wanted to turn around and move Marion right after acquiring him from Sacramento. "We had heard rumors he had slowed down," GM Spencer Martin said, "so although we wanted to get Fat in here, we were a little worried about moving Marion and that big contract. But Shawn came in and played like he was 25 again. It was a big surprise to us, and hes fit right in. At this point Id feel comfortable sticking with Shawn even after KG retires."
Its obvious Marion is a perfect fit for Orlandos frantic offense. Sometimes it seems almost out of control, but it seems to work for all parties involved, and Marion seems happy. When asked about his chances at the 6th man award, Marion says, "Sure, but it wont matter if we dont win the title."