University of Tennessee Athletics
INTERVIEW OF COACH PEARL BEFORE KENTUCKY AND SOUTH CAROLINA GAMES
February 12, 2007 | Men's Basketball
Feb. 12, 2007
1. In labeling Wayne Chism an inside-outside man, how is an opponent bothered when 6-foot-9 men hit 3's?
A - "It makes the offense a lot better because Wayne has to be guarded by the opponent's center, which brings that player out away from the basket where he had been more comfortable. We're not a big team so if we can get the opponent's center away from the basket, it helps us rebound. That's the stuff a guy with inside-outside ability can do for you."
2. Give an assessment of freshmen Wayne Chism, Duke Crews, Ramar Smith and Josh Tabb.
A - "Wayne Chism is doing the exact things we thought he could do. He's a big man who can move his feet defensively. He's made progress and gotten better. Ramar Smith is farther along as a point guard than I would have anticipated for him at this time. He's a strong leader and a strong personality. Duke Crews is a high-energy guy. When he plays with that energy he is efficient. When he doesn't, he becomes an undersized inside player. He needs to play with that energy all the time. Josh Tabb has really been able to step up at times like when Chris Lofton was out. Overall, this is probably the best group of freshmen in the SEC."
3. How important is the "painting the town orange" campaign before the Kentucky game Tuesday?
A - "It's real important. When you see our shade of orange, you know it is Tennessee. We want to paint the town orange and obviously keep the blue out. It should be fun seeing that arena -- and with Bernard King being back --all decked out in orange."
4. Where will the Vols be especially challenged in preparing for Kentucky's invasion Tuesday night?
A - "Kentucky is playing great basketball. They are on a roll. You are not going to wear Kentucky out. They have the best juniors in the league. Up to this time, they will be the strongest home opponent we have had."
5. What do you expect from South Carolina in a return game Saturday (3:30E) at Columbia?
A - "South Carolina has struggled to win in the SEC, but they have played people tough. Tre' Kelley is a guy capable of scoring 30 points any night. David Odom is getting these guys to compete and play well. We beat them in Columbia last year. No doubt, they will be trying to give us pay-back on that one."
