Austin Daye Interview:

Last year the Pistons selected Austin Daye with the 15th pick of the NBA Draft. This year the Pistons are a team in transition. As veteran hold overs from the 2004 Championship team share the locker room with the younger generation of Pistons, Austin's play time has been inconsistent at times. But when the 22 year old Piston does she the floor for extended periods, he has responded. The versatile Daye has averaged 11 points and 4 boards in games that he spends more than 25 minutes on the floor. The 6'11 forward has inside out game as evidenced by his 42% shooting from beyond the arc, good for 19th in the league.
Austin Daye
Given their current roster makeup, most league insiders expected the Pistons to be big players at the trade deadline. Alas, the Piston trade rumors were about the only whispers unrealized, possibly the cause of recent team turmoil.

Last week I had the opportunity to chat with Austin, discussing his transition from college into the NBA, dealing with trade rumors and where he sees his game developing.

HoopsDaily: What are your thoughts on all the trades that happened at and leading up to the deadline?

Austin Daye: This is all very new to me. All the moves, there has been a ton of activity at the trade deadline for the past couple days. A lot of the guys that got moved you wouldn't think of. We'll see how it plays out.

HoopsDaily: Did you think there was a chance you or any of your teammates would get moved?

AD: I wasn't worried about getting moved, but I did think something might happen within the team. I'm  glad they didn't. We have a good core of young players.

HoopsDaily: What is it like around the locker room and bus? Do you and your teammates discuss the trades the different trade rumors you hear about the Pistons or otherwise?

AD: We notice (the Pistons trade rumors) it but don't talk about it that much. We talk about the moves that have happened. A lot of them we didn't think they'd happened but happened.

HoopsDaily: How do you like playing for Detroit?

AD: Good team, good organization. Good young guys. Right now, we're waiting our turn, waiting for time and just looking to take advantage of the opportunities.

HoopsDaily: What was it difficult to transition from California to Detroit?

AD: A little bit. The weather was the biggest thing. But the atmosphere, the small city where I live, it's secluded, just like I'm used to. It keeps you out of trouble, focusing on basketball and what's important

HoopsDaily: Has it been difficult to get used to NBA travel?

AD: Not really. I deal will it pretty well. I am used to it coming from Gonzaga, as we traveled a lot. The key is sleep. Sleep is something that you gotta do.
Austin this season is a top 15 3 point shooter
HoopsDaily: Your dad played in the NBA. What is it like having a parent that was in the league and has he been able to help you in ways other parents might not?

AD: It has been great for me. He helps me out a lot. Teaches me every day. Lots of little things. He really been a big help. Still helping me on a day to day basis, little corrections in my game.

HoopsDaily: What has been the biggest transition from college?

AD: The pace of the game is different. The speed is much faster. But the transition from game to game is different. It's draining. You have to be ready for it.

HoopsDaily: How do you spend your time away from the court?

AD: Relax on the computer. First thing that pops up on the computer is nba.com, and I look at highlights on youtube every night.

HoopsDaily: Where do you feel you have improved the most since getting drafted? What areas are you looking to improve now?

AD: My mid range game and post game have gotten a lot better. I'm working on lots of things.3 point shooting is something I've been effective at.

HoopsDaily: Long term, do you see yourself as more of a 3 or a 4 in the league?

AD: I see myself as a 3, with some post game. I'll do whatever the coach needs me to.

HoopsDaily: Your game has some similarities to Tayshaun Prince. Do you feel like you've been able to learn from him and other Piston veterans?

AD: Tayshaun and Rip. I ask Tayshaun as many questions as possible. I'm sure to ask him questions and not assume he's going to give me advice without asking. He's very basketball smart.

HoopsDaily: What are some of the questions you ask him about?

AD: Stuff like when is a good time to foul. Situational questions.

Given that the interview took place before the rumored walkout by the Pistons, I was unable to ask Austin about that specific incident. All in all, I found Austin to be a bright and motivated young man. Given his positive attitude, and obvious work ethic, I very much expect his talent and potential to be fully fulfilled. Expect to see Austin Daye as a big contributed on a competitive team in the near future.