"What

[mkwest]

Then: Diogu is considered one of the better players in ASU history. In 2002-03 he was Pac-10 Freshman of the Year. Two seasons later, he was the conference’s Player of the Year.

Today: Diogu, a 6-foot-9 forward, just finished his fifth NBA season. He missed the 2009-10 season with a knee injury. Last year, he played 36 games for the Los Angeles Clippers, averaging 5.8 points and 3.2 rebounds, and is now a free agent. He has career averages of six points and 3.1 rebounds. Diogu recently was named spokesperson for the International Foundation for Education and Self-Help’s “Books for Africa” campaign. IFESH wants to ship 200,000 donated books to Africa this year.

Question: Let’s start with Books for Africa. Why’d you get involved?

Answer: My family’s from Nigeria, and one of the areas that’s badly in need of supplies is the Imo state, which is where my family is from. I don’t ever like to forget my roots. Really, most of my family is still in Nigeria, aside from my parents and brothers, so I just want to help in any way I can. (For more information, visit ifesh.org.)

Q: You’ve been in the league for a while now, and you’ve had your share of injuries. How are you holding up?

A: I’m feeling really well. I’ve had a few setbacks. Unfortunately, I missed the whole 2009-10 year with microfracture knee surgery. But for me, it’s all about being in the right situation. I had some good games last year when I got that opportunity, just like I have throughout my career. So I think things are on the up and up. I’m just really looking forward to this year to keep making that jump.

Doug Haller, Tucson Citizen

[MambaTime]

Are you asking why he was so talented in college and now is mediocre (or not even) in the pros?

Sometimes, players games don't translate to the next level.

[thanumba2clippersfan]

Are you asking why he was so talented in college and now is mediocre (or not even) in the pros?

Sometimes, players games don't translate to the next level.

It happens to a lot of guys. I think he did a good job last year of playing backup PF and C. I would really like to have him back whenever the lockout is over.

[mkwest]

Are you asking why he was so talented in college and now is mediocre (or not even) in the pros?

Sometimes, players games don't translate to the next level.

"What's up with...Ike Diogu" is the title of the interview.

As far as his game goes, I like what he brought last year. Coming off of microfracture, I wasn't expecting much out of him. I'm not looking for him to ever live up to his draft position, but he's shown to be a solid 4 coming off of the bench. Next season, the Clippers may be forced to make a decision between Diogu and Craig Smith. I love Rhino, but size and contract amount both give Diogu the upper hand.