Q & A: Timberwolves' Forward Anthony Tolliver

Newly signed Minnesota Timberwolves forward Anthony Tolliver agreed to an interview with Minnesota Sports Zone.

Tolliver showed his good sense of humor when he made a YouTube spoof video poking fun at LeBron James’ “The Decision.” You can watch it here if you haven’t seen it yet.

A great personality and great addition to the Timberwolf pack. Here is the interview:

Nam Huynh: Your YouTube spoof of LeBron’s “the Decision” was a classic. What’s the story behind it?

Anthony Tolliver: I just decided to have some fun with my decision, so I got out my personal video recorder and put together my own decision video in about 3 minutes total.

NH: Speaking of LeBron, he recently tweeted on his Twitter account (after you made your video) that he is taking “mental notes” of everyone taking shots at him this summer. He didn’t necessarily mention your name, but considering your spoof video, would you like to take this time to explain or respond to him?

AT: No. Haha. Because if he watched the video then he would know that I wasn’t making fun of him and that I was more making fun of myself.

NH: Do you have any nick-names picked up from either high school, college or while in the NBA?

AT: A.T., A-Train, and A-Tizzle are probably the most popular three.

NH: What is the experience like playing for NBDL teams and getting your first real opportunity with the Golden State Warriors last season? Do you feel that playing in the developmental league improved your game?

AT: Playing in the D-League definitely helped develop some of the skills that I needed to produce at the NBA level. It is a great tool for anyone that is on the outside of the league trying to get a foot in the door.

NH: You played well in Don Nelson’s high-tempo offense while with the Golden State Warriors last season. Coach Kurt Rambis is trying to run a similar high-tempo offense and he certainly sees your potential for the team. What is it about a high-tempo offense that seems to maximize your game?

AT: I have a multifaceted game. I can do a lot of different things on the court and running is one of my strong points as a big man. In a running style offense I’m able to really utilize my outside shot as well as my quickness against bigger guys.

NH: You played some 4 and 5 for the Warriors last season and according to your agent, you may be playing some 3 for the Timberwolves this season. What position do you prefer to play and do you mind playing in different positions?

AT: My strongest position is probably the 4, but I loved last year in the Golden State Warriors’ system where I had a chance to play multiple positions, and in some cases I brought the ball up the court. So I definitely have the confidence necessary to do whatever is asked of me.

NH: You’ll be playing with a pretty young team. A disadvantage would be NBA experience, but what can be the advantages of having a core group of young talented players?

AT: One advantage is the fact that we will have lots of energy every night. And since we will most likely have a lot of guys in the rotation we will hopefully be able to run on some teams and get them tired. The Oklahoma City Thunder had a very young team up against the experienced Lakers and they gave the World Champions a run for their money.  So experience isn’t everything, but it does help. Hopefully we can just improve and continue to work at becoming the best team we can be.

NH: Finally, what’s one thing that most people (fans) wouldn’t know about you?

AT: Most fans wouldn’t know that I am part owner of two real estate companies and that I plan on becoming a real estate mogul when I’m done with basketball.

NH: Thanks for taking time with us and good luck this season!

Nam Huynh writes for Minnesota Sports Zone (http://www.mnsportszone.com)