Tyrone"Muggsy" Bogues (born January 9, 1965 in Baltimore) is the shortest player ever to play in the NBA, he is a 5-3. Bogues played for four teams (Charlotte Hornets, he also played for the Washington Bullets, Golden State Warriors and the Toronto Raptors) during his 14-season career in the NBA, averaging 7.7 points, 7.6 assists and 1.5 steals per game.
Bogues was drafted twelfth overall in the 1987 NBA Draft by the Washington Bullets, He make us in believe Impossible Is Nothing. Solobasket.com had the chance to interview Muggsy.
-You are the shortest player to ever play in the NBA at just 5-3. How did you achieve that?
For one believing in myself and knowing that I had the ability to play the game of basketball even though folks considered the game to only be played by 6 and 7 footers
- What would you say to those coaches who think that the most important thing in basketball is height?
I would say they are wrong, it doesn't matter the height its the effect and ability you have in that position. I was fortunately to have the basketball knowledge and ability to play a position as well as a 6 and 7 footer
-You were always a great athlete in some sports like weight-lifting. Why did you go into basketball?
Wrestling and weight lifting were more of an individual sport and basketball was more of a challenge because of the nah sayers so to prove them wrong I pursued a sport that I was told wasn't an option.
- When did you start to think you could become a professional basketball player?
Right around 86 when we played in the world games and we won the Gold Medal, so I thought I was on the right path to move to the next level of professional basketball.
- Which coach did help you the most? and which teammate?
My high school coach Bob Wade had the most effect on me as a basketball player. As a team mate I really enjoyed playing with Larry Johnson and Alonzo Morning.
- In all your time in High School and the NCAA did you ever face a player shorter than you? If yes, do you remember his name and what team they played for?
No I never faced player shorter than myself.
-In the World Championship held in Spain in 1986 you played with your National Team and faced Yugoslavia leaded byDrazen Petrovic. Your defense on Petrovic was pretty good. How do you remember that game?
I remember it like it was yesterday and I held him to 12 points, which was a good feeling because he was considered as one of the European all time greats during his time and may he rest in peace. He also had a great career in the NBA.
-Then, in 1987 you came into the NBA and played with the second tallest player ever to participate in the NBA, Manute Bol (7-7, rest in peace) could you tell us about that experience?
It was unbelievable and one of the greatest times of my life playing with a guy who had such charmisa and passion for the game. For a man of his size he always wanted to shoot a three.
-Despite your short height many NBA players were uncomfortable when they were guarding by you. Why do you think that was?
Because the first thing they had to do was to put the ball down where I was and that's where I relied on my strength.
- Was there a player who you feared to defend?
I never feared anyone because I love a challenge.
-You were always a great athlete did you ever get a dunk in a game?
Unfortunately no, but I could dunk a volleyball.
-In the nineties you were part of a great team, the Charlotte Hornets with Alonzo Morning, Larry Johnson and Co. What do you think was missing to have had serious chance of getting a ring?
We had bad timing with injuries which effected our chances for a ring, we had all the pieces just bad timing.
- Which player was your role model?
Didn't have a role model but I respect quite a few players.
- In present, do you know a player with characteristics similar to yours, do you see yourself?
Haven't seen a player like myself.
- Al-Farouq Aminu went into in this summer NBA Draft from Wake Forest, your college, What do you expect from him?
I expect much success once he understands the NBA game, he has an unbelievable upside to his game.
- What is Muggsy Bogues currently engaged in?
I am currently a high school head coach, home with my loved ones: Wife- Kim, children: Brittney, Ty and Tyisha and enjoying life.
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1 - Más entrevistas como esta!! Muchas gracias Carlos!
11/23/2011 - 10:50 - Robertico
