2008-09 News and Features

Q&A with Jason Kapono

With the completion of physicals, Jason Kapono is officially a member of the Philadelphia 76ers. The 6’8” forward is a two-time winner of All-Star Weekend’s three-point shooting contest and he arrives in Philadelphia tied with the highest shooting percentage from beyond the arc in league history.

The sharp-shooter was in town earlier this week to take his physical, and SIXERS.COM caught up with him during his hectic day for a quick one-on-one interview.

Q. What are your first thoughts on being in Philadelphia?
JK: I’m excited. It’s a great sports city. I’m looking forward to it with all the history with the team. All throughout my years in the league, I’ve always liked playing against Philly. I’ve really loved the city, so I am looking forward to this new challenge.

Q. Do you put any additional pressure on yourself knowing that three-point shooting is a need on this team?
JK: It’s my job. It’s a skill I have. It’s something I’ve done throughout my career. I don’t think there is any added pressure because I’ve been doing it for a while. I’m confident in what I do, so I’m just trying to add that skill to this team to help us win.

Q: Is there anything you can take from your previous stops that will help you contribute to the Sixers?
JK: I think the experience. I’ve been on a lot of playoff teams. I was on the championship team for the [Miami] Heat, so I know what it takes to get past the first round or getting past certain humps and roadblocks throughout the season. I’ve played with a lot of great players. Hopefully that knowledge will come into play here.

Q: What are you thoughts on playing in the Coach Jordan’s offensive system?
JK: It’s good. Coach Jordan has always had a high scoring team and guys have always enjoyed playing for him. I’m looking forward to his system and obviously playing with these types of players. I think we all compliment each other. Obviously the better I shoot, the more outside shots we make, then teams are going to have to stay on that and it will create more lanes to the hoop. Having Elton [Brand] back, obviously having a post guy in there, puts a lot of pressure on the defense.

Q: You were in Philly for a day – first cheesesteak place you hit was?
JK: Jim’s. Hopefully Geno’s and Pat’s aren’t too mad at me. But I will make my rounds. I promise.