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Click here for AD's 2002-2003 Column Archives

Greetings from Portland
November 5, 2002

Well the 2002 - 2003 season is underway! I am excited about the opportunities I have here in Portland this year. Change is always tough but I am thrilled to be here. My role as a Blazer will basically be the same as it was in San Antonio. The team needs me to come in and change the pace of the game. I love to bring some energy, push the tempo and get everyone involved.

So far I am adjusting to new guys around me really well. After four years in SA the transition will take some time. Now that I have had a chance to step out on the court, play some "D" and drop in a few buckets I am feeling good about things.

One of the guys I have been looking forward to playing with again is Derek Anderson. For those that know me you know that DA has been a friend off the court for a few years. He is a great guy and a lot of fun to run with. Another guy that I know is Jeff McInnis. I have known Jeff for awhile off the court and he is a great addition to this team. We have played some video games together and hung out in the past.

The Blazers this year have a lot of good veteran leadership. Scottie Pippen in particular is very solid and has great experience that we can benefit from. Maurice Cheeks is very much a players coach. I have never played for a coach that has played in the NBA before. He has been here and has the experience to understand life from a player's perspective.

The people and facilities here are wonderful. Portland is a beautiful city and it reminds me of Columbus in some ways. For the first time in a long time I actually get to see the seasons change! Everyone has been very nice to me and the fans are definitely high on this team. It should be a great year! I hope you'll stay tuned to www.AntonioDaniels.com and keep up with all that's going on.

I wanted to thank all of you who have written since my trade. In particular, I wanted to say a special thanks to Michael, Lisa and Jen, three people who wrote me recently with some very special words. You can write me as well at Antonio@AntonioDaniels.com. I can't answer everyone in the column but I will do my best. To my friends in SA I'll see you at the SBC Center on November 9th!

--AD