Updates
Tue, Jan 15th 2008, 05:06
January 15 blog
Hello out there- hope everyone is doing well. We returned early Sunday morning from a week-long West Coast trip. I enjoyed this trip a lot more than most long excursions because it was a quick four games in five nights. I slept a little on the plane and when I got back to Orlando I grabbed some breakfast with my buddy Brian Thompson and we played a nice round of golf. The clouds all day were pretty ominous but the rain held out until we got to the 17th tee box. Fortunately we got to play sixteen holes. My golf game hasn’t improved much since the season started frankly because I’ve only played four times in the last three months. I just don’t have enough time. Anyway, we are getting ready to play a back-to-back tonight. We got Chicago at home and then a quick stop in Charlotte tomorrow night before coming home for a few days. It’s funny, but I really do feel like I’m living out of a suitcase. I still haven’t unpacked from the West Coast trip!
I played a little bit in three of the four games. Significant minutes are hard to come by at this point- so I guess I’m supposed to be happy with five to eight minutes here and there. Let’s be honest though, I’m a competitive guy and I believe in my ability so that doesn’t satisfy me. I mean, am I supposed to be content with not playing? I don’t think so. As I’ve said many times though, I can only control how hard I work and my attitude. There was an article in the Orlando paper titled something along the lines of, “Redick unhappy with playing time.” I was quoted as saying, “I’d like to play more than once every three weeks. I’m beyond that.” To me, that makes me sound like a pompous, arrogant jerk. Look, I’m not “beyond” playing minutes here and there and trying to improve and develop as a player. I know that’s important. The reporter asked me after the Sacramento game, “It had to feel good to get into a game, right?” My frustrated reply was, “I’m over it. I don’t want to just ‘get into a game’.” I never said I was “beyond” playing. I’m a second-year player who has struggled to find a role on his team- I’m not “beyond” anything. I’m simply frustrated by the lack of real opportunity. I mean, it’s been proven that even if I play well in the limited minutes I get that not much is going to change. I’ll just continue to work- that’s really all I can do. I have to pay my dues.
Other than that, all is well I suppose. But to be honest, not much else is going on. The new look of the site will be up and running very, very soon and there will be a lot more content on their including exclusive videos, photos, and audio blogs from yours truly. I’m pretty excited about it. As always, thanks for the support and encouraging words. I love reading your responses to my blogs. Keep ‘em coming. Everyone have a great week and I’ll be in touch soon!
I’m leaving you with a simple top-five list- my top-5 favorite magazines to read:
1) Esquire- my favorite
2) GQ- great mix of fashion, sports, and insightful articles
3) DETAILS- GQ’s kid brother
4) US Weekly- I’m a sucker for gossip- and US Weekly is the most trusted source for RELIABLE information
5) The Economist- my Aunt just put me on this magazine- a lot of good stuff in ther
Comments
Eric | on 10/2/08
Keep up the hard work and you’ll get your chance. I know you will come up big. Don’t get discouraged, and let God handle the rest. He’ll find you a role on that team!
Tom | on 1/2/08
J.J. I’m a big fan and have watched you for years. Just keep goin at it . I know it can be frustrating on the bench most of the time. When you chance come though you have to make it happen. Somtimes it even feels as if no one notices you but if you constantly play well you get a good opportunity.
pamtar | on 1/2/08
Keep up the hard work and you’ll make it.
We’ll hold it down in Cameron for you!!
Frank | on 30/1/08
Mr. jj reddick you are one my favorite players by far, and I admire your tenacity and the will to win under any circumstace. I know you will get your big opportunity soon to show that you can compete with anybody on that court. By the way I wear the # 4 in my high school team…it’s a very lucky number. Soon your name will be heard everywhere, its only a matter of time. Best of luck.
Matt Flynn | on 30/1/08
JJ keep working hard… you can only control what you do and that’s all that matters
Fernando | on 28/1/08
Hope you get some more pt.. you are by far one of my favorite players
Tim | on 27/1/08
JJ, I was thrilled to come across your site today, as I’m a big fan. My only regret of not choosing Duke for college was missing out on your years. I’m just waiting for you to get some more PT one day so I can make sure to hit any games you play in DC. Also, the economist is definitely excellent.
jonathan | on 23/1/08
tonite against memphis you played about 2 and a half minutes and it seemed like u couldnt miss and when u made the 3 consecitive shots i almost died…ive been praying foor u to get the opportunity and i have a feeling your time is coming just be patient
Tom | on 22/1/08
You the man JJ
Brandon | on 16/1/08
JJ,
Keep your head up man. Its your second year and you have all the ability to become a Orlando great. You have your second coach in two years so bare with us and just keep working hard. It will pay off big time.
Oh and the media will twist everything to get a story so just let it roll off and remember….the fans are still chanting “JJ…JJ…JJ”
Being competitive is a part of the great athletes, so let it fuel you.
Pong | on 16/1/08
hi jj!! how r u? well…of course we are also frustrated if you dont have enough pt..i dont think ur being pompous, arrogant jerk when u said that..i mean whose player who doesn’t want to contribute something to the team?? we all feel ur desire to really “play”..i believe in u..can’t wait to see the new site..as always, good luck & god bless!!..Ü
ps: hope u already unpacked ur luggage this time..smiles..
pong from philippines
Sana | on 16/1/08
I’ve never commented on any of these, but I thoroughly enjoy reading your blogs. I’ve been a Duke fan all my life (even though I’m now a Carolina student- forgive me, please), and I greatly enjoyed following your career there and now here. It’s unfortunate that your playing time is lacking, but it’s nice to see you aren’t giving up. Good luck!
Meagan | on 16/1/08
I was also surprised that there wasn’t a sports magazine on your list. I know it has to be frustrating to not get more playing time than you do. However, continue to keep up the hard work. Things will come around in due time!
Travis | on 16/1/08
Do you think you might be traded? I know you can’t answer that on this site now. Sometimes I wish they would so maybe you could get more PT. I miss watching you at Duke. Would love to see you play, you are by far the most exciting player to watch! later.
Donald | on 16/1/08
Keep your head up man, It only shows your better than them. I love the fact Stan gave you some more “garbage minutes” against the bulls..When will he ever learn you can do so much more?
P.S. Golf next time on me…i can get us on pretty much anywhere FREE…and i cant help your basketball game (doesnt need help) but i can help your golf game…just contact me you got my email
J. O'Grady | on 16/1/08
hey man just keep workin hard and your opportunity will come. i love Duke, so naturally, i saw you play alot, you are def. gonna have your day. You’re always welcome in Minnesota, we could use your sweet stroke. good luck w/ the rest of the season JJ.
Tyler | on 16/1/08
I agree with you J.J., someone with your ability and talent shouldn’t be happy with just getting a few minutes here and there.It’ll only be awhile before you drop 40 again. Oh! don’t worry about your golf game because no one slices the ball as much as I do.
Nicole | on 16/1/08
Hey JJ! you know…I’ve sent like a million request on fathead.com for them to make YOU into a fathead…i’d buy it for any price! haha well I cant imagine how hard it for Duke’s leading scorer not getting playing time, trust me, your fans want you on that court more than you think. I always check the boxscore on nba.com everytime orlando plays to see how many minutes you had. I really hope that your playing time rises by playoffs. Well i can’t wait until the site gets a new look! be strong…-Coley
Ricky | on 15/1/08
Keep up the hard work buddy…. good things will happen
Jen | on 15/1/08
I don’t think you sound like an arrogant jerk. The lack of playing time has to be frustrating, but just hang in there.
P.S. I’m glad someone else recognizes that US Weekly has reliable information!
Amber | on 15/1/08
well it’s kind of disappointing with the continued lack of playing time but good for you keeping your head up and understanding that as a second year player you just have to wait and find your place in the league. just know we’re here rooting you on and know what you’re capable of. keep on keeping on double j and your time will come. peace -amber
rayK | on 15/1/08
well JJ, sounds like you’ve been pretty busy but know that we don’t see you as an arrogant jerk. its understandable that you want to play more. i mean who wouldn’t? keep a good spirit about things because your time will come!
get to work on those golf skills…
and GO DUKE!
strength and prayers
Shannia | on 15/1/08
Wow! im surprised Sports Illustrated or ESPN magazines are not on your top 5. However, it’s really funny but cool to know that you’re into other stuff other than just sports. It shows the whole other side of you. I love how you enjoy reading gossip..haha Have a good one!
-Shannia
Jordan | on 15/1/08
Hey JJ,
Enjoyed watching the magic vs. Jazz game the other night. My buddy I was watching with is a big Kyle Korver fan, so of course I rubbed it in his face after you got the lay up on him and drew the foul from beyond the arc. The magic couldn’t quite pull it off but if you would have played more who knows what would have happened.
Have a good one
Jordan
Erica | on 15/1/08
Don’t worry Jonathan God humbles us at times and maybe this is his way to bring a new insight into your life. No you are not pompous or arrogant everyone goes thru times in which they feel like that. Keep up the good work remember that we love you and are behind 110%. Have a blessed day and good luck tonight.
diana | on 15/1/08
i hope you get more minutes. i read that article and it made you sound like a bad word haha!! which your deff not cutie. well good luck in the next couple of games hope you get more playing time gorgeous. i wont get to watch any of the games coming up have to study for final horray!!1&)(>> bye gorgeous
Kestrel | on 15/1/08
Thanks for the blog! Sound Like your very very busy with away gamesand all, but hey at least you got time to play Golf right? I can’t wait for the new videos, photos, and audio blogs just remember to stay positive and keep up the hard work. I can’t wait to see you get more playing time, it’s coming soon!!!
Love, Kestrel
Kristin | on 15/1/08
keep up the good work jj, i know you’re trying your hardest…good luck against the bulls tonight!…i’m pumped for the additions to the site!!!
colin sexton | on 15/1/08
Hey stud, do you think Duke’s team this year could go a long way? Kyle Singler is talented.
T.S. | on 15/1/08
What’s you handicap?
Kent | on 15/1/08
You got the right outlook on things. Just control what you can, and let the rest handle itself. If you keep putting in the work, keep striving to improve, and never become content, it HAS to show eventually.
I’m glad you have maintained your confidence, as I think that’s half the battle.
God bless
Peggy | on 15/1/08
JJ,
Glad to have you back on the east coast. Enjoyed the blog very much. What a mature attitude and a great example for all of us on “keeping the faith”. Remember, there are alot of us who know just how great a basketball player you are. We are willing to wait for “your turn”. We are also proud of the dedicated work ethic that you exemplfy to the young and old alike. May the Lord continue to bless you and keep you.
Steve | on 15/1/08
I have the same top 3! Oh and I would like you to read an article I wrote on you, if you have the time:
http://bleacherreport.com/articles/6120-NBA-Orlando_Magic-Just_Say_No_Otis_-090108
Jacklj | on 15/1/08
hanks for the candid response. keep your head up and keep being tough. you will succeed im sure. what are the coaches telling you and do you think you will be traded. it might be the best thing. good luck. we will follow you anyway. jacklj