The 2010 Las Vegas Summer League is winding down and the San Antonio Spurs have two more games before it’s over and the doldrums of the NBA begins.
As I was sitting on press row, waiting for the Spurs versus Los Angeles Clippers game, I had a chance to chat with Darryl Watkins and ask him a few quick questions about the Summer League, defense, his goals and more.
Jeff: How has your experience been playing in the Vegas Summer League?
Darryl: It’s real tough coming out against new competition that’s going to be coming out this new season.
Tell me about the intensity out on the floor with everyone trying to secure a spot on a team.
It’s real intense because everyone out here is trying to do the same thing you are trying to do. That’s making an NBA roster spot.
The San Antonio Spurs are notorious for preaching defense. On the defensive end, what can you bring to this team?
Basically block shots, rebounds and making sure I’m there for help defense.
What drives you?
Basically to support my family and the love for the game. I want to keep getting better from the last game. I have a certain amount of goals and keep climbing to higher heights. Show that my game has developed a little bit more. I can score, rebound, and also be a team player.
Jacque Vaughn, a former player himself, and now coaching the summer league team. From someone who has played the game and now coaching you, how valuable it that for you?
That’s great value. You have someone that used to be a player and when I was with the Spurs before, he was a teammate, and he knows the game.
Is it a little weird seeing him as a coach?
(laughs) It’s real weird. From seeing him go from teammate to coach Vaughn!
Watkins has been averaging 7.3 points and 7 rebounds in 23 minutes per game for the Spurs in the summer league.