10 Random Thoughts

October, 2003

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This is a new and unique way to get into Adonal's head. Read Adonal's answers to questions regarding anything from basketball to politics to the latest love affair on 'Friends,'asked on the fly by free-lance reporter Chris Navalta.

When players leave teams for more money, loyal fans tend to take it personally. How do players usually take it when they see a teammate leave?
[Adonal] It's just part of the business. It's unfortunate. I remember my rookie year (1997-98) when I first saw Joe Smith leave, it was so difficult. We were in shoot-around and I got back to the hotel. Joe came down the elevator and said to me: 'I'm leaving'. And I was like: 'Leaving to do what? You're going to go practice again?' And he said: 'No. I'm leaving. I was just traded.' And I remember my stomach just dropping. It was my first experience with trades. And I kind of grew from that and decided that this is part of the way business is done in the NBA.

Do you think the majority of Iraquis actually want our brand of freedom?
[Adonal] I think it's hard to ascertain what the Iraqis actually believe. The language barrier makes it very difficult. But I think, more than anything else, for most of us, we do have a common humanity. Which means, we want opportunities for our families to grow and live long lives; have opportunities to practice our religion and go to school; and to live a happy life. I think a lot of people want that. So, I don't think they're any different just because they speak a different language. They may want our freedom. Maybe not necessarily all of our freedom. But I'm sure they would like to have the right to pick and choose whatever freedom they want and what they don't want. And they should be able to do that as well.

If an actor were going to play you in a movie, who would you want that actor to be?
[Adonal] I would have to say Denzel Washington. I just think he's got soul. He's a very wonderful actor and I'd be honored if he played me in a movie.

What would be more difficult: teaching in high school or kindergarten?
[Adonal] I think teaching high school would be more difficult. Because I love kids and I love being around kids, I don't think that teaching young kids would be all that difficult for me. I would just have way too much fun with the kids in kindergarden. I'd probably carry all of them on my back; whereas, in high school, I'd have to be more formal. I think I'd have fun in either case. But if we're talking about pure unadulterated fun, it would be kindergarden.

Are you a superstitious person?
[Adonal] I am a very superstitious person, thanks to my grandmother. I think she forever changed me. She used to get up in the morning when she had a bad dream and throw water and rum on the ground. I caught myself doing that at one point last year. I started laughing but I continued to do it.

What is more difficult for you to get: 10 blocks, 20n rebounds, or 1 3-pointer?
[Adonal] (Laughs) I think that I can shoot 50 percent from the (three point line). I just don't think they want me to use all my skills. I think they're jealous of my shot. Because I have a good shot. They just don't want me to become the offensive force that I can become.

How many books would you say you have read in the last 6 months?
[Adonal] I would say about 10 books.

Considering they already have the money and power, why do you think that celebrities are often interested in getting ivolved with politics?
[Adonal] Because I think when it comes down to it, they're very much affected by the political system and decisions by politicians as anyone else. Granted, a lot of celebrities may know some politicians and always have their wealth influence them. But I think that actors are no different than the common person in trying to right the wrongs in justice and to feel they have something to say that is worth listening to. And they certainly have a right to do that.

What is the weirdest thing that you've been asked to autograph?
[Adonal] (Laughs) I'll definitely have to plead the fifth on that. There have been a few strange things I've been asked to sign. But I think I'll leave it at that.

What are your thoughts on throwback jerseys as the latest trend?
[Adonal] (Laughs again) I don't know. Sometimes with the hip hop generation, I sometimes find myself a little lost. Because sometimes we don't like the past and sometimes we're just in love with the past. I guess it's good to have a good balance. But I think for me, if it fits, it fits. But I don't really look forward to the day I can have a retro jersey of some athlete. I would like to remember them. But I would rather remember them for something else other than wearing their jersey.

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