We were struggling on offense. I saw an opportunity to step up. I thought I'd take that opportunity.

I just want to compete. If I red-shirt, that's fine. If I play, that's fine, too.

When I step on the court I consider myself a ball player, not a freshman. I'm focusing on doing what I'm supposed to do and just playing to win.

We're definitely stronger today than we have ever been, and I think that is a direct result of the changes we have made.

Coach (Jamie Dixon) said I'm in better shape than the big guys.

I think it's an honor to have people look at you that way, and see you as an exciting player for the future. If this is what it's like at the beginning, I definitely can't wait to see what it's like at the end.

They're a nationally ranked team, just like us.

I don't look at it as I'm a freshman. I look at it as I'm a ball player. I'm here to win.

This is going to be my first experience playing against a team like this. This is going to be the best team we've played thus far. But we've worked hard and practiced hard. We had a good practice (Friday), and I think we're ready.