Udonis Haslem sat down with HEAT.com after a recent practice to discuss his off-court interests and other things people may not know about him.
Who was your favorite player growing up?
Man, I had a lot of favorite players. I just love the game of basketball, man. I'm a fan of the game. I don't know if I had a favorite player. There were just so many different eras, so many different guys that I loved to watch. I was obviously a Pippen, his versatility, Karl Malone's jump shot. I could go on and on with all these guys that I watched play. I was just a huge fan of basketball.
What is a moment in your life that shaped you?
Not getting drafted and having to go to Europe. kind of just take a look in the mirror and focus on being a better person, being a better basketball player and changing my eating habits. I just went through a whole transformation in those 10 months in Europe.
What's your most memorable high school or AAU game?
Winning the state championship. We did that twice.
What's your favorite TV Show or Movie?
My favorite movies are “Harlem Nights” and Life. It's over now, but “Sons of Anarchy” was my favorite show.
Who are the top three musicians in your rotation?
I'm just a little bit of old school, man. You know what I'm saying? Obviously, I still listen to Tupac. I love Ross, what he's doing. I still put my Trick Daddy in, my JT Money, I love Biggie. I'm more old school than anything.
What is one thing you can't live without?
Family.
What is your favorite type of food?
Seafood.
What is your favorite workout/drill?
Sled work.
What was your favorite subject in school?
English.
What is your favorite sport outside of basketball?
Football.
You're a fan of the Dolphins, right?
Yeah.
What was your most memorable experience on the court as a professional basketball player?
Just winning the Finals in '06. That's always going to be the best.
What would you like to do once your playing career is over?
Continuing to go into my business side of things and grow my business.
What was the first thing you bought once you received your first NBA check?
A Hummer H2. Gas-guzzler.
What was your 'Welcome to the NBA' moment?
Against Detroit at home, I think that was my first time having a double-double.
Who are three historical figures you'd like to have lunch with?
Probably Magic and Tupac.
What is your favorite car that you've ever owned?
1972 Chevy Impala.
What's your favorite outdoor activity?
I enjoy going to my kid's games, my son's baseball games, my son's basketball games. I enjoy just my kid's activities.
