I would set up different things – I did a stock exchange internship, where I was on the floor, at one point. I worked with an institutional trader at a desk in New York one time. And I had the opportunity to do some broadcasting, which was something I thought I would enjoy – talking about the game. I played for the Heat during my career, and this guy (Heat play-by-play announcer Eric Reid) in the offseason actually did two games with me with the sound off of games he had already done. We basically created a resume tape for me.
And then a couple of years after I retired, the radio color analyst position became open as that gentleman was being bumped up into the TV role. So then, I ended up getting a radio opportunity and that’s what I did for the beginning part of my career. Then I worked in studio television for games, and then, ultimately, I moved to game analyst for TV. It’s been great.
Q. How does your UVA experience help you as a broadcaster?
A. I was a history major, so I didn’t do anything from a broadcasting standpoint. But being the captain of the basketball team, I was more often than not the face that came out and talked after the good and the bad (games) and had to address media. And I learned a lot from that.
Q. In what ways?
A. It taught me to appreciate the jobs of the people who are asking me the question. I developed that reputation as being somebody who they can count on to give a truthful answer. As a result, they were always fair with me.
Q. Can you compare the roles of being a basketball player and being a basketball analyst?
A. I’m a former point guard, so I’m used to seeing things and trying to understand how people are taking advantage offensively or defensively. So, it’s very natural for me to analyze the game that way. And that’s why I think it’s fun for me to do that as a color analyst.
People see the dunk, they see the great shot, but for me, it’s always how and why it’s happening. And I try to articulate that to the best of my ability.
Q. What’s it been like to see so many former UVA players in the NBA over the last decade?
A. It’s great. First of all, it’s a huge compliment to coach Tony Bennett. He’s done an amazing job providing stability and producing a competitive, winning program every single year. The guys that he’s getting to come to the NBA are hard-nosed, tough, competitive guys who can defend. And while being a great defender doesn’t come across as the sexiest thing, at this level that matters.
