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“If some team looks past us, they will be greatly mistaken”

COACH’S CORNER: 5 MINUTES WITH JIMMY COLLINS

(as published in Whoosh! magazine Nov. 7, 2005)

Whoosh!: With Cedrick Banks and Armond Williams gone, this team will certainly have a different feel, won’t it?

Collins: “I think a lot of people out there don’t know what to expect from us, especially looking at the preseason rankings. This is a hard-working team. We’re a fun team. The coaches are going to have more fun coaching them.”

Whoosh!: Are some people in for a real shock?

Collins: “I think we’ll be a pleasant surprise. If some team looks past us, thinking we’re a cellar team, they will be greatly mistaken.”

Whoosh!: Is there a player out there that will surprise Flames fans this season?

Collins: “There will be several. Josh Mayo for one. Danijel Zoric, once he gets right. Othyus Jeffers will flat-out shock people.”

Whoosh: What does this team need to improve on?

Collins: “Defensively, we’ve still got some work to do. We have to make defense a part of our personality. Last year, it was a lot of Cedrick Banks (scoring). This year, scoring will be more by committee.”

Whoosh!: Who do you think will emerge as a leader this season?

Collins: “Othyus Jeffers definitely comes to mind. Our point guard D.J. Smedley is a leader. Eventually when he comes to understand our offense and what we’re trying to do … Danijel Zoric. I think Danijel is the best post player we’ve ever had come through here.”

Whoosh: In a few words, describe the 2005-06 UIC Flames.

Collins: “We’re an intelligent team, a coachable team. We have some larger players, more than in the past. They’re pretty athletic, and the most important thing, they play as a team.”