One on one with Jeryl Sasser

[PonyPride]

From Sunday's Dallas Morning News:

The former SMU and Kimball High star is averaging 13.4 minutes per game as part of Orlando's rotation. A year ago, he appeared in just seven games, with a total of 36 minutes.

Question: Just how different is this season compared to last year?
Sasser: You can't describe it. I'm just getting playing time. You want to be out there on the court, and now I am. It's been a learning process, but it's also been fun.

Question: What have you learned the most?
Sasser: Just the way the NBA game is played. The speed of the game, slowing it down whereas before you'd be rushing stuff, all excited. Now you let the game come to you. It's all been working out.

Question: How close are you to making a real impact in the league?
Sasser: You have to look at the team and the role you have. The role I have with this team, I'm more of a defensive player, a rebounder and get your shots when the opportunity presents itself.

Question: Definitely a different role than what you had at SMU. Was it tough to make that adjustment?
Sasser: It's still tough, to be honest with you. It's not like it's going away. But you just have to face the facts. To be on this team, this is what I've got to do. I'm OK with it.