Shawn Opunui, Up Close

Nickname: Brown Sugar.

Favorite cold cereal: Anything I don't have to make myself.

Why did I choose to play basketball over other sports: I was forced with a whip by my uncles, sisters, and roommates.

Favorite Steve Cleveland quote: "C'mon man."

Before a basketball game I: Soak in a tub full of six non-fat butter cubes (great for skin).

How did I spend my off-season: Hunting for wild pigeons in the West Indies.

Who has had the greatest influences on my basketball career and why: Ben Stien, I like his TV show and I want his money.

What do I want to be doing 20 years from now: Living off my parents.

Who is the best player I've ever faced: My wife (she uses cheap shots!).

The dirtiest team I've ever played is: Bulls on NBA game for the Sega.

One place I would love to visit: Daniel Bobik's house in Provo.

If I could play another position, what would it be: Point guard, I don't want another position.

People say I look like: Dan Howard.

How did I select my jersey number: It's the square root of 144.

My favorite hobby or activity away from basketball is: Pottery.

What is the best book I've ever read: Green Eggs and Spam.

My most memorable athletic achievement or moment:Making the first grade mini-pony league for bare-back riding of camels-just kidding.

If I had to give up all of my possessions except one, what would be the one thing I kept: Shoe laces-it's the universal tool of happiness.

Interesting fact most people don't know about me: I come from a long line of Russian Czars.

On game day, my friends and relatives follow the game: Through Morse Code via television.

My advice to youngsters: Make the world a better place by smiling all the while.

If I were on "Who Wants to Be a Millionaire," the person I'd call for my lifeline is and why: Troy McClure on The Simpsons.

If you could invite any three people to dinner who would they be: Ariel (from the Little Mermaid), Yellow and Pink Rangers (from Power Rangers), they're hotties