Knicks rookie Iman Shumpert has provided a periodic diary during the lockout, detailing his offbeat transition to the NBA. The Georgia Tech guard is locked out no more. His twitter handle is @I_Am_Iman.
THE news of the labor agreement brought tears to my eyes. I was sitting up watching TV at 3 a.m. Saturday in a recording studio in Atlanta.
The move to New York is all I can think about. I woke up the next morning and had one of the best workouts ever. I was hyperventilating, I was so excited the lockout was over. In fact, I had to take a break between each drill.
With an agreement reached, I know this leaves little time for preparation, being on an NBA team that calls for complete efficiency.
I’ve already spoken to a few guys and everyone’s geared up. The best text came from Chauncey Billups. I won’t reveal what he said, but it was motivation enough for my whole career!
The fans can expect 110 percent from me every night. I will play to win all the time and everything else will come.
I’ve considered shutting down the social networking and blogging to get completely focused, even though I love connecting with you fans. I just know in my heart this is the right thing to do, and I want to be ready without excuses.
I flew down last night to IMG Academies in Bradenton, Fla., after a full day of packing. I want to get my wind up to be more prepared for training camp. I know for sure Shawne Williams will be in Bradenton, and I plan to get to work out with Amar’e Stoudemire this weekend in Miami.
I also plan to head back home to Oak Park, Ill., Friday night for my jersey being retired at my high school, Oak Park River Forest.
I couldn’t be happier for the Christmas present the NBA is giving me. First, I was drafted by the Knicks three days before my birthday and now they got the agreement done in time for us to have basketball for Christmas.
I’ve never been so happy to miss my family’s Christmas cooking than I was when I heard we’ll be playing Boston at the Garden on that day for the debut.
I was just praying it would be over. And my prayers were answered. See you soon, New York!