A small amount of media members positioned themselves around the lobby of the Finch Center, anticipating the arrival of Shaq Goodwin. Across the lobby were another set of doors. I noticed a tall, burly looking figure trying to get in. It was Shaq. He looked at me laughing when I opened the doors and said, "I don't have any codes or nothin man." It was a nice way to break the ice right before his first appearance with the Memphis media.
Josh Pastner spoke before Goodwin did, but wanted to guarantee that the attention stay on his new star power forward. Pastner confirmed that the schedule is done for next year, but that they are just waiting to release it. He also said that former Tiger Charles Carmouche will likely land at LSU next season.
Here are some of the memorable quotes from today's presser with Shaq Goodwin.
On playing with Team USA in Brazil: "I learned that I didn't like to lose and that I'm a team player. I knew I could make the sacrifice to not be selfish."
What it will be like working out with Frank: "There is no shape quite like Frank shape. All I hear is that he is a tough guy who will push you to your limit and that's what we need."
Shaq on the food in Brazil: "We were expecting to stop at McDonald's and get a couple of burgers and go back to the hotel. We got there and all they had, I kid you not, were beans, chicken, and rice."
On rumors of him playing football in 2013: "I'm still going to play football next year and I'm looking forward to it."
The transition from AAU to college hoops: "If you come in with the mature approach that you need to get better and better you will be successful. I grew up with five sisters. They always told me confidence kills."
On how much different college hoops will be: "Everyone is good, and will come to win every single game. This will be the biggest challenge of my life."
His fluctuation in weight: "When I first got to Colorado to train for Team USA, I was at 268. When we got back from Brazil, I was at 255. I'm sure when Frank gets done with me I'll be like 240."
Overall, I liked what I heard from Goodwin. He is a very well spoken, confident guy that will play a huge role for the Tigers next season. Pastner blatantly said that there is no way Shaq will be playing football, so there is obviously some confusion there. My guess? He never sees the football field. Shaq awaits a physical before he can be cleared to work with the team/coaches. Pastner said that once the physical is completed, Shaq will undergo a five week plan to get him ready for the season. Goodwin even admitted he is not in the best shape, but no need to worry about that as long as Frank is running his conditioning.
--GM
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