Get an inside look at Douglas, as he answers an array of questions – including where he ranks among the best defensive guards in the NBA – submitted by Kings fans.
A feisty defender who consistently forces opposing point guards into low-percentage shots and comes up with countless deflections, Tony Douglas has become an integral reserve for the Kings. The Florida State product – who has drawn raves for his high basketball IQ and leadership from coaches and teammates – has helped Sacramento win six of 10 games in which he’s stepped on the court.
Prior to Thursday’s victory over the Timberwolves, No. 0 sat down to dish on his defensive mentality, favorite NBA moments and much more, in a Q&A with fans via the team’s social media platforms.
TD: “When I was in N.Y., I hit nine threes (on March 17, 2011) and tied the franchise record. That was fun.”
TD: “Everybody! I came here with Pat (Patterson) and Cole (Aldrich), but I get along with everybody equally.”
TD: “My original number was No. 23, but Marcus (Thornton) has that. I wore No. 15 in Houston – (DeMarcus) Cousins is No. 15. I just said, ‘Give me No. 0 – it’s a new start.’”
TD: “The type of player I am is a vocal leader, and I show it on the court. I don’t need to be an All-Star. I play defense, make plays, hit shots – that’s me.
“I’ve loved the game ever since I started playing basketball when I was three. I think you don’t always have to score points to be effective – that’s probably why I love the sport. You can play defense or rebound or do other little things to help win games.”
TD: “I don’t really get it from anybody, to tell you the truth. When I went to college, I just knew it was a guard conference in the ACC, and night-in and night-out, you had to perform. I wanted to be different and not just be a scorer – I wanted to be able to play on both ends, because you very rarely see that.”
TD: “Watching film – I watch a lot of film on whoever we play, so that’s a great advantage you have over your opponent.”
TD: “As of right now, Avery Bradley (of the Celtics) is a great on-ball defender and he (ranks) first. Iman Shumpert (of the Knicks) is a great defender, as well.”
TD: “Sometimes you just know it’s your night but, also, you just take what the defense gives you.
“(The key) for me to get it going on offense is my defense. I have to be making something happen out there on the floor on the defensive end – getting steals, getting deflections, running up and down the floor, making the other guards work. That’s what keeps me going.”
TD: “I always talk to them about defense. For Isaiah (Thomas), I feel like he has the ability and the quickness just to pressure other guards. Jimmer (Fredette) may not be as athletic as some other guards, but there are certain techniques that he can do to have an advantage over his opponent.”
TD: “Normally, I have a cooked meal at home. (On Tuesday), there wasn’t a lot open, and I don’t have a house or a kitchen, so I ended up getting (fast food). ”
Free Throws
- Although Douglas is not currently on Twitter, the Kings guard reveals he’s considering creating an account in the near future.
“I’ve been hesitant to do it,” he says smiling. “I may get one, just because my brother and I have a foundation.”
- Get an inside look at No. 0’s defensive prowess and veteran leadership: http://bit.ly/Yp4mAo
