Summer League Diary 07/11/09

[Summer League Team]

Forward Ahmad Nivins, a former Saint Joseph’s University Hawk, was the 56th overall pick in the 2009 NBA Draft. This week, the Mavericks summer league squad began preparations for the 2009 NBA Summer League, which run from July 10-19 on the campus of the University of Nevada-Las Vegas. Nivins will periodically share his insights.

On the flight to Vegas: “Oh the flight was funny. I was
expecting/anticipating/hoping for an exit row or a bunker seat with a
little more room but I was stuck in a regular coach seat. And it was a
full flight. Alfred (6-9) and Bryson (6-10) got to sit an exit row
because people were nice enough to offer up their seats to them. The
flight was enjoyable but everyone was sitting in a ball and grimacing.

Being in Vegas: You know it is always tempting being in Vegas but I try
to think of this as a business trip. I am here trying to get a job. I
still go through my normal routine. Our shootaround is usually at 10 am
and we have to get our gear at 9:15 am so I usually get up a little
earlier to get breakfast and wake up and get ready for practice. After
our practice, I go back to the hotel and talk to my family and take a
light nap. I like to listen to my IPOD before the game and get ready to
go.

On playing first NBA Summer League Game: At Portsmith and during my draft
workouts, I would get nervous. But last night, I wasn’t really nervous.
I was more poised. I got a good sweat in warm-ups. I wanted to come in
and play aggressive. It was nice because my first points were dunks and
my shots were falling. I was hoping for a win but we will get this one
tonight."

[Chris Carba]

Bass who? You've done great mister. Hope to see u as a mav...

[Sawyer Dean Gerdes]

you looked awesome lastnight and the night before. you and beaubois are the best draftees we've had in forever! im getting a very good feeling about next year! good job man

[Dorathy]

u did great yesterday =]

[Amy]

Ahmad you did a nice job in the first game! congrats! That's a good beginning and I am sure you will do even better in the games to come. Go Mavs!

[Ashley Newell]

you were amazing last night! congrats on a good game.. it was fun to watch even though i was upset about all the TOs. i was still way impressed!

[David Volkmann]

Way to go Ahmad...Make us forget Brandon Bass quickly!

[Bobby Belt]

You played well Ahmad. Really hoping you make the team. Good luck.