Why I decided to turn pro

Sporting News, The, June 10, 2005 by Nate Robinson

It's always been a childhood dream to be in the NBA. That's what I want to do. I want to be in the NBA playing and producing and being the best player I can be.

I've taken the time to develop my game since the predraft camp in Chicago last year. Most of the scouts and coaches were telling me one more year wouldn't hurt. So I went back to Washington to give myself a better chance going into the draft this year. Now I know I'm ready.

One of the things I really worked on was making my teammates better, not worrying about scoring and just letting that come. I focused on making the extra pass, being a floor general, being a leader. I think I did a great job at that this year, and we went to the Sweet 16. We had all these great basketball Players--guys like Will Conroy, Tre Simmons, Brandon Roy--that made it easier for me to make decisions and to play my game.

Of course, being able to take care of my family was a big, big reason to enter the draft. I want to hear my name called on draft night because I know I have to provide for my son, Nahmier, and my family. It's just great, being able to provide for the whole family, and I can't wait until that day comes.

Ultimately, though, I put the decision in God's hands. However he helped me make my decision, that's what I was going to do.

Like I said, having the chance to play in the NBA is a dream--just being in that atmosphere and playing against the best players in the world. And I want to keep getting better so I can be one of the guys they say was one of the best basketball players in the NBA--ever. That's where I'm trying to get to.

I might be listed at 5-9, but I've got a big heart, like Allen Iverson. He's one of the smallest guys out there, and he's a leading scorer. He helps his team win doing whatever it takes, and that's what I want to do. As long as I keep my heart and keep my faith, then I'll be OK.