With his final year of basketball under way at Clemson, senior center Sharrod Ford is ready to make his last go around a memorable one.  Ford averaged 11.9 points, 7.2 rebounds, and 2.3 blocks per game last season.  He has gone through a coaching change and he has seen several teammates transfer to other schools during his three previous seasons.  Ford has put on about 15 pounds and he is poised to lead Clemson to a great season.  We caught up with one of college basketball's best post men for a quick chat.

 

How do you feel about Clemson being picked to finish 10th in the ACC by some college basketball preseason magazines?

 I think it's disrespectful. You know, with us being there already-not new to the league.  But we will get our chance to prove people wrong.

 

After losing to Maryland and Duke throughout your career-which team do you think you have a better chance of beating this year?

 Both of them, I think we will surprise some people. It would be nice to finally beat either team. Of course coming from Suitland, MD, I would love to beat Maryland-we will see what happens.

 

What do you think about facing you former teammate Tony Stockman in the ACC/Big Ten challenge this year?

 It is cool-Who would have thought that this would happen, it's surprising. But I am looking forward to seeing Tony again and I am sure he will be ready for us. He's a competitor.

 

You are considered an NBA prospect by some scouts, media, etc.  What do you think about that?

 I'm concentrating on Clemson right now.  I want to have a good senior year for the team not just for me.  A successful year for the team means a successful year for me, GO Tigers.

 

Is there a prankster on the team?

 Let's see, I would say Cheyenne(Moore).

 

The best shooter?

 Oh, man that's a tough one.  I can't pick one.  I would say Shawan(Robinson), Cheyenne, and J(Jimmy Hudson) is shooting real good, right now.

 

What is the most creative thing a fan has said or done at a game that was directed at you? What arena?

 Fans have not really gotten on me at all throughout my career. Most of the time they went after Chris(Hobbs). Well I would have to say that a fan told me that Shelden Williams was going to "own me"-that's the only thing that I can think of.

 

With the program heading in the right direction, is there a part of you that wishes you had another year?

 I definitely wish I had another year-it would be nice to play for coach Purnell again.  I love playing for coach and I will miss the guys.  But I am happy to know that I was a part of the restoration of the basketball program.

 

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