The Official Site of Tracy McGrady

Question:

What did you learn last year going through all the injury issues?

Answer:

I think going through last year made me re-focus. Going through that injury and everything about last season, I got frustrated. When you have to deal with injuries like that, it’s hard to love the game of basketball and hard to get up in the morning to play the game because you can’t be yourself. And that’s how it was last year: it was hard for me to come here knowing that I can’t be me. That was the toughest thing about it. I knew I was better than that. I know everybody thought I was washed up but I had just came off the all-NBA team. I was hurt. So this summer was about getting re-focused and getting back to being me and that’s what I did. I had to get away from it and that’s why I stayed in Chicago for seven months and busted my butt.

Question:

What was your favorite All-Star game memory?

Answer:

My favorite All-Star memory was probably the 2003 game in Atlanta. It was Michael Jordan's last All-Star game so it was really special to be a part of. I tried to give him my starting spot, but he was too humble to accept it. I wanted to leave my jersey in the locker room so that he would have to take my spot, but when the game actually started Vince Carter ended up giving his spot to MJ. It was a classy move by Vince and t was cool for me because I got to start alongside him. That game went into double overtime too, so it was fun for the fans and the players.

Question:

Who are your toughest matchups?

Answer:

The toughest guy for me to guard would probably be Dirk Nowitzki because of his versatility. He has a combination of ability and strength that you just don't find in guys his size. He can hit the three, create his own shot, and get to the rim, so he is really tough to guard. My toughest matchup when I have the ball would be the Spurs entire team. They play great team defense and always make you work for everything.