Jeff Rabjohns wrote:The object of pointed recent comments from Larry Bird, Williams emphasized he wants to remain a Pacer and harbors no hard feelings toward the team president.
Bird said June 24 Williams would be traded if the Pacers could get enough in return, adding if the second-year player remained he would be on "very thin ice."
"I just hope the thin ice don't break," Williams said. "I'm going to do everything in my power to keep it thin and try to thicken it up a little bit."
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Williams said he understood Bird's comments.
"He's got a job to do, and I've got a job to do. I didn't lose no respect for Larry," Williams said. "He's just doing his job. And he's right."
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The 17th pick in the 2006 draft, Williams said he has tried to streamline his life to playing basketball, working out and going home, away from trouble. He said he no longer associates with some people in his life, even relatives.
"It's hard to cut family out because that's your blood, but some things, you've just go to do. You have to make some sacrifices," said Williams, a 6-9 forward who averaged 6.7 points and 2.7 rebounds last season.
"I feel like, if family members and people around you love you and want you to succeed, they'll step back after so much."
Williams said he realizes his off-court situations contributed to the Pacers' public relations problems, but he hopes to be a part of rebuilding the image and production of a team that missed the playoffs the past two years.
Asked how he thinks he's viewed, Williams said, "I don't know. I feel like I still have fans cheering for me when I come out (on the court). I'm not getting booed.
"I feel like I earned the fans back a little bit. I just have to stay out of trouble and keep a clean nose."
I hope things work out for Shawne. I think these are the right answers, but he'll have to continue to prove himself. I think he could play well for this team and in this system.
