“First and foremost, I’m excited to be back in the city, excited to see my friends and brothers that I consider teammates from when I was here. I’m excited to see those guys. I’m excited to see my extended type of friends sitting courtside, ticket holders, people I grew close to over the years when I was here. It’s only been a couple weeks, but it seems like so much longer, so I’m excited to get back and see everyone.
“Like I said last week, the place that this city and these fans and everyone I grew close to over the years, they and this place will always, always hold a very special place in my heart. That will never change, but due to a number of different circumstances, I’m in Oklahoma City now and I’m extremely happy to be (in OKC). This is a very special situation, just a great group of players, a great group of guys, the staff, the community, just the right fit at the right time coming off what took place and I’m just as happy as I can be in Oklahoma City and everything that’s gone on. I’m just looking forward to getting out there and playing some basketball tonight in front of what used to be the home crowd. Coming in individually, I’m sure it will be a lot of fun. There’s a lot on the line in terms of the two teams, but it’s just exciting.
“I’m thankful to you guys for the support you showed me over the years, even in good words and sometimes critical words. It was always with respect and appreciation for what I brought to my teams as best I could. I will always be thankful for the support in the media as we spend time at the court just like this over the years. So I’ll see you all tonight when I get a chance to speak in a little bit more detail. I’m trying to get back (on the court) and get some shots, and make a few later on tonight.”
