We definitely weren't poor growing up, but we weren't rich.

I've been a Lakers fan since growing up in Oklahoma. My hometown's finally got the Thunder, which is really exciting, but I've still got to stick with the Lakers.

More money gives me the chance to help more people, to give something back.

I don't think people understand what microfracture surgery is. It's pretty serious. A lot of basketball players get it in their knees, and if they do bounce back, it takes a while.

I think it's important to be thinking about your personal life and your family not just when you've retired but also during your career.

Losing a family member is extremely difficult for anyone to take. But the normal reaction is to want to get back to your work as soon as you can.

I just love kids. As a kid, I grew up in a poor country with a poor family that had nothing. I loved anyone who could come into my life, in from the outside, and give me advice that could help me succeed. I believe that there are a lot of people who came into my life that made me Dikembe Mutombo.

It just runs through my family, to be honest. I come from a very big musical, entertainment background.