Wed, Mar 5th 2008, 14:30
Hello out there. I hope everyone enjoyed the return of the question and answer feature on the website. It’s true- I really don’t like Nickelback. Horrible band, that’s all I had to say. In basketball news, we are actually having a tremendous season. While my playing time is not what I want it to be, it’s awesome that I’m on a good team. We are 39-23 right now and I think we are just starting to hit our stride. Since the all-star break we’ve played very well with the exception of the Toronto road game and the Philadelphia road game. Right now, we are just battling to get the highest seed possible in the East. I have the chance to be on a team that wins 50 games- not many people get that opportunity so that’s exciting.
I’m honestly tired of any playing time questions and playing time articles. From now on I’m going to solely focus any blogs for the remainder of this season on our team. Yes, I don’t play a lot. Yes, I am not in the rotation. Those are facts. But it’s also a fact that I’m on a playoff team with the caliber to contend for the Eastern Conference championship. I’m going to drop the whole playing time issue, I hope everyone else will for the rest of this season.
Duke hit a rough stretch with a couple losses but pulled out an incredible win over NC State on Saturday to give Coach K his 800th win. I called him over the weekend and we had a good 30 minute conversation. He is such an amazing coach and an amazing man. Congrats to him and good luck to Duke as the finish out the regular season this week against Virginia and UNC.
Have any of y’all seen Semi-Pro? Hilarious movie. It definitely has some more explicit language than Talladega Nights but Semi-Pro is just as funny in my book. The scene when Will Ferrell, Will Arnett, Tim Meadow, and the crew are sitting around the poker table is so funny. “You’re right. I did get shot!” If you’re of age, go see the movie.
On a more serious note, I normally don’t like to get too personal on my blogs but I feel compelled to because I know the power of prayer. My brother, David, has a serious health issue and is having surgery next week. I ask that you keep him in your prayers. Pray for a successful surgery. Pray for the steady hands of the surgeon. And pray for a speedy recovery for David. Thank you.
Everyone be well. Later.
Jay Cedergreen | on 7/4/08
hey next time you play you should come kick it with me at my house!
Anthony | on 24/3/08
JJ i hope your brothers surgery went well ill definately keep him in my prayers, hopefully youll be able to update us on his condition soon. Good luck the rest of the season, it must be a tough stretch having to play games night in and night out and have the family issues your having, but im sure god will help you prevail through this tough stretch
god bless, anthony
Kristen | on 24/3/08
I’ve been praying for your brother, I hope he’s doing great
Tommy | on 23/3/08
JJ, I have been a huge fan of yours all my life. You have been my role model ever since you came to Duke. I play Shooting Guard like you, and whenever I play, people always say I shoot like you. I am 13 years old, and a die-hard Duke fan (I was actually at the game with my dad on Saturday – sad to see them lost).
I have been so disappointed in the playing time you have received. When you were drafted I said, man, JJ is going to be dominating in the NBA. Give him the right role and he will get 15-20 points a game, consistently. Although my prediction so far hasn’t been true, I know it is because you haven’t gotten the chance to play and prove yourself as an NBA player. I know you’re working harder than anyone out there, and I know one day you’ll get your shot.
I heard about your brother (my dad told me – he was a duke alum so he gets all the news and stuff) with the tumor. I’m sure the Duke Medical Center will take care of him well and he’ll be ok.
Nice to talk to you,
Tommy From New Jersey – you are still my role model, no matter how much playing time you get in the NBA
PS: If you could ever email me, it would mean the world to me. My email is marcut@d-e.org It would be such a pleasure to actually talk to you again (I was 9 the last time I talked to you).
pong | on 23/3/08
hi JJ!! hope ur bro will recover well.. God bless and take care!!
pong from philippines
lindsay | on 21/3/08
Hey jj I just got home from the game and I sat way up in the skybox I hate it im too far away from the game I yell alot at the game and I love when they put you in I was wondering do you have a myspace let me know Go magic!!! I hope all is well with your brother
Lindsey | on 18/3/08
I had no idea that your brother has been sick, but I’m sorry and I hope he’s been getting better.. and I know how ya feel about the whole playing time thing, don’t worry about it, you’ll get your chance to shine my man.. keep your head up and I hope all is well with ya.
Justin Walsh | on 17/3/08
JJ, I have watched you play since you were a freshman at duke, and you have honestly motivated me as an athlete. I have tried to emulate your wonderful Jumpshot into my game [however since I’m a lefty I look more like current blue devil taylor king]. I am 18 years old and I also don’t make dunking part of my game. Basketball is my life, and you have helped me in basketball, so JJ, THANK YOU. And don’t sweat the PT, like you said great team right now. Besides, I see you being a Kerr, Paxson, Majerle type player. Good luck in your season I wish you the best.
Cameron Crazie in ND | on 16/3/08
Hi JJ, I hope your brother is recovering well. I hope his surgery was a success and that the pathology report comes back negative. As far as you not getting much playing time with the Magic, there are more important things in life to worry about. As long as you are happy, that is one of the most important things in your career. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family during this difficult time. Waiting is the hardest part. Take care.
Sandro | on 15/3/08
Just wanted you to know that I’ll be praying for David. I like Marshall football so it was sad to not see him on the team anymore. But God will bring him through. I hope that works out and your season continues on a positive note. Keep the faith!
PRG - 5.23.85/7.15.07 | on 15/3/08
We are so pleased to hear David is doing well!! We’re sure it is a relief to you and your family. We hope he continues with his recovery. Keep everyone informed as we all are thinking and praying for him and your entire family.
Mike | on 11/3/08
Hey JJ. I’ve been your fan ever since you stepped foot on Duke and started to wow everyone with your all around game, not just a 3 point shooter, that has developed every year since I’ve watched you play. I truly believe you can be a solid player in the NBA, and I just hope that oppurtunity comes for you in the near future. I just wanted to say that I prayed for yor brother David and hope everything went well and continues to be well. Well thats it for now, but good luck and have a great rest of the season.
Jenna | on 10/3/08
I just wanted to let you know that I have been praying for your brother and your family. Prayer definitely changes things! Hope everything went well!
Kestrel | on 10/3/08
I WANT TO START OFF BY SAYING THAT I HAVE BEEN PRAYING FOR DAVID AND I HOPE AND WISH FROM THE BOTTOM OF MY HEART THAT EVERYTHING ENDS UP PERFECT. ON A LIGHTER NOTE I HAVE NOT YET HAD A CHANCE TO SEE SEMI-PRO BUT I WANT TO . CONGRATS ON A GREAT SEASON!! HAVE A GREAT WEEK AND TELL DAVID TO HANG IN THERE!! PEACE AND LOVE ALWAYS!! KESTREL
Liz | on 10/3/08
Dicky V mentioned David during the Duke/UNC game Saturday night. My thoughts are with you and your family. A positive attitude makes a world of difference when it comes to serious matters and I’m sending some positive vibes up north right now! :)
Alan Lopez | on 10/3/08
Whats up jj this is alan lopez i went to school with your lil bro david and we played for the knights together. Let him know i wish him well and hope everything goes good with the surgery. Well you guys stay safe
karina | on 10/3/08
hats off to you for not dwelling on the PT issue and continuing to work hard inspite of all that’s happened.
my prayers are with david and your family.
good luck and keep up with the positive attitude.
mac Hill | on 9/3/08
everything i try to put into my jump shot is from your instructional video. my friend, will howard, and i are fans. i hope u finish out the season well, and i’ll keep david in my prayers.
-mac
diana | on 9/3/08
im finishing what i was saying and i was soo sad that its wasnt you. your my favorite player and your the only reason im a magic fan. and it sucked not getting to watch you on the 4th and 8 th. this had nothing to do with your blog ut im going to watch semi- pro it looks hillarious.!!!<<<3333
diana | on 9/3/08
hey, hope your having a good week!!! and i deffently will keep david in my prayers. i hope his surgery goes well. i hope you will keep us updated. and im in the magic kids club.(even though im too old) but anyways you get to meet a player after the game last night and it was some bald guy haha
John | on 9/3/08
My prayers are with your brother.
Joe | on 9/3/08
My prayers are with your brother and family, JJ. I heard on TV that he is having a tumor removed from his spine. If that is true, I had the same operation in 2004 when I was 19. Luckily, the Lord saw me through and the tumor was not cancerous. I have no doubts the Lord will do the same for your brother.
Jackson Clough and Zach Wurz | on 8/3/08
Me and my friend are from Seattle and have been watching you since your freshman year at Duke. I like what your doing with the playing time issue, you’ll get your chance. Duke loosing to NC was pretty weak but if they hadn’t made some mistakes late in the game there is no question to who would have won. Coach K is one of the greatest coaches of all time, I have faith they will come back in the ACC tournament. David is in our prayers.
-Jackson and Zach
Kelly Griffin | on 8/3/08
It’s funny but I still remember you running around the Cave Spring gym with a basketball in your hands at our games. I was on the varsity team with your sisters and a ’96 graduate from Cave Spring. I have followed your success closely through the years and I couldn’t be happier for you. I live in NYC and can say that you have had your own cheering section up here since you first stepped foot on Duke’s court. As I imagine you have heard countless times, you are an amazing player and your time will come in the NBA.
I am so sorry to hear about David’s health problems. He will be in my thoughts and prayers. I wish you and your family all the best in the world.
Alyssa | on 8/3/08
Hope all turns out well with your brother. I will definitely have him and your family in my prayers while you all deal with this.
Kyler | on 8/3/08
WEll its good to hear u dont complain That would be hard for me to do :( WE all know u deserve so much playing time cuz of the awesome three point shooter u are!!! Yeah im a huge duke fan Coach K is the best coach ever!!!!!! That 800 will go even farther Your a great basketball player JJ and your my hero you have always been my hero YOur my favorite plaer in the game even though u never play!! Im sorry to hear about ur brother I hope his surgery goes by quick and he recovers so quick He will be in my thoughts and prayers definetely!!! And Duke better win against carolina GO DUKE!!!!!! -YOur numba one fan Kyler
D.K. | on 7/3/08
I’ll be praying for David on Monday. I know he’ll get the best possible care at Duke. I’m glad you will be able to be with him at this difficult time.
PRG:5.23.85-7.15.07 | on 7/3/08
JJ….All your many, many admirers in Warrenton are keeping David and your entire family in our thoughts and prayers. Here’s hoping all the love comes right back to you!!
payton veraldi | on 7/3/08
i am yor #1 fan…..
i hope someday i will be as good as a foul shooter as you…..
and 3 point shooter….
every time you played with duke i wore the # 4 jersey….
do u still visit duke campus alot…..?
do u think u could set any records for the pro record books….?
and i will pray for david….
keep working hard…...
Joe Fiore | on 7/3/08
I just wanted to say I am a huge fan and my prayers are with David.
Go Duke Saturday
love ya JJ
D.B. | on 7/3/08
I will keep David in my prayers.
I was so happy about Coach K.‘s 800th win!
Semi-Pro was super hilarious! I did notice the language being a little stronger, but it was definitely just as funny as Talladega. I loved that part you mentioned with their antics around the poker table. I also loved Will Ferrell’s number one song…lol. It was so funny, and even got stuck in my head for awhile…haha.
Dusty and Ryan | on 7/3/08
Hey man its Dusty and Ryan from NYC, we are huge fans.
We even saw you play at the Garden a few times. Do you like playing there? Do you ever go out in Manhattan and if so where have you been.
See you in April when you destroy the Knicks….
David Barker | on 7/3/08
Hang in there JJ. You were a great player at Duke and you will be in the NBA. Stay strong and be ready when opportunity comes knocking. I look forward to you lighting it up in the NBA.
Nancye | on 7/3/08
JJ, someone once told me that in order to succeed, you have to be comfortable in your own skin. Accept who you are and not who others think you should be. I think you’ve lived up to those words pretty well.
I have no doubts that David will be in good hands. Here’s to hoping for a speedy recovery.
Amy | on 6/3/08
I’ll be sure to keep your brother David in my prayers.
Oh, I forgot about Semi-Pro…maybe I’ll try to find some time to watch that film.
Thanks for another blog update! Enjoy the rest of the week!
Ryan Acuff | on 6/3/08
Thank you for the update and I will of course pray for your brother David.
Lauren | on 6/3/08
Great job last night!! We will all definitely be keeping David and the rest of your family in your prayers and will be wishing him a speedy recovery!
Korri | on 6/3/08
Here in Montana, your brother and your whole family, is in our prayers. We hope that everything goes well! Kor
Bre | on 6/3/08
Yes duke had a little rough patch but everything will is all good now. We beat Virginia and now we’re coming for UNC. I hope they’re ready!!
David wil be in my prayers.
Nikki | on 6/3/08
J.J. – I hope all goes well with your brother’s surgery. Your brother and your family is in my thoughts and prayers.
Beka | on 6/3/08
Oh my gosh! I’m so sorry to hear about Dave, Ilve talked to him several times (not that he would remember). He’s a great guy, so this was a bit of a shock. I will definately be praying for him. Please keep us posted on his condition.
Kuma | on 6/3/08
Hi its my first time on this site but you’re one of my favorite players and I really admire your style of play. I just want to encourage you to keep it up! You’re an amazing player (Im sure you probably hear it all the time)! You might be struggling with a lot of things and I know its not easy for me to say since Im not in your shoes, but Im sure that you’ll get through this. Just trust in God, the one who gave you all the things you have. Congrats on another win! 40-23,
Well I’ll be praying for your brother and for you also. Good luck with everything!
God Bless.
Beatrice | on 6/3/08
Yes, you are right. The magic are an awesome team. Just remember they wouldn’t be as awesome without you. Each player brings something different to the team. I will keep your brother in my prayers.
greg14dukeu@yahoo.com | on 6/3/08
hey wasup jj i have been a fan of yours since the Mcdonalds all american game earlier this year i got to see you when you guys played the hornets, even though you didnt play im still happy to see you warm up because i have been tring for years now to see a duke game.
Let’s go DUKE!
diana | on 6/3/08
i hope his surgery goes well. and the magic are doing amazing i went to the game against toronto and the magic were so good. next year will be your year. and you will tear the nba up haha no you really will.
Andrew | on 5/3/08
“Would you put out that cigarette, it’s very unprofessional.”
“No. I like to smoke when i drink.”
Also… if you haven’t seen the preview for pineapple express… check it out, looks like it’s gonna be the next superbad…
http://youtube.com/watch?v=SLfSLyojje0
Maria | on 5/3/08
Great job in tonights game! I will keep your brother in my prayers. I hope his surgery goes well and that he recovers quickly.
David | on 5/3/08
First off, I wanted to say that your brother David, You, and all of your family and friends will be in my thoughts and prayers. The power of prayer is an amazing thing, and I wish him a safe and successful surgery and a speedy recovery. Keep us updated on David if you can. Thanks, and we’ll be prayin’ man!!
I havent had the chance to watch Semi-Pro, but anything with Will Ferrell in it has to be a gut-buster!! lol I’ll definitly be watching that ASAP! lol Congratulations to Coach K on his 800th win, and I was on the edge of my seat the last few minutes. We pulled off a great win and got Coach K the win. Knowing him, he’s not worried about accolades such as that, he’s just worried about helping his team get the win and push them closer to successful heights.
But 800 is SWEET! lol haha
I look forward to seeing the Magic in the playoffs, and with the way you guys are playing it’ll be a great race to the finals if all goes well. Lets keep those hopes high and our eyes on the prize!! =) Im already getting goosebumps because of Saturday, the legacy of the Duke/UNC rivalry continues when the Tar Heels try to roll into Durham and ruin senior night like they did your last year at Duke.
Im still mad over that one, but I’ll get over it eventually. Anyways, I gotta get some sleep! I have to work tomorrow. I’ll keep your brother David in my thoughts and prayers, along with you and your family and friends. I send my best bro! Take Care! And May God Bless You And Yours Always!
P.S.- Have you read the book “Blue Blood” by Art Chansky? I just got it today and I wanted to know if you’ve read it. It chronicles the Duke/UNC rivalry.
Cameron | on 5/3/08
Hey JJ,
I just wanted to thank you again for taking the time to get pictures with me and my friend Tarah and sign some stuff for us after the game tonight! You played really well! It was a lot of fun. And what you have done and are continuing to do for the Gay family is amazing. It’s so great to hear about it.
Thank you again for everything! Good luck with the rest of the season.
And David is definitly in my prayers. Mr Gay told me about it earlier tonight but I will definitly be thinking about him.
Thank you again!
Cameron Johnson
CameronCrazy0003@aim.com
Sara | on 5/3/08
David will be in my prayers! Can’t wait until Duke creams the TarHoles on Saturday. Wish the Magic had more TV time. I am in AZ. It is all about the Suns here. Ugh! Best of luck! Sending prayers and good mojo to David.
Sean | on 5/3/08
Just read about your brother – my prayers go out to him and your family!
I like the positive aspect of being on a playoff team and not focusing on the PT issue. All things work out in the end!
Johnny Brock | on 5/3/08
I hope that your brother’s surgery goes GOOD!!
I will definately be praying for him!
40-23…..ya’ll are gonna get 50 wins…
Tell Dwight I said wats up….even though I don’t know him..
Be Breezy,
jb
Enter your name...Jeff | on 5/3/08
Enter your comment…Sorry to hear about your brother! Will keep everyone in my prayers. You’re wise about tabling THE issue for the season. Spoken word has more Biblical authority than most realize. Don’t focus on the problem and end up having more people agreeing with you…that just magnifies the problem. Stay focused on the positive and watch those results grow instead. Faith, the authority of the spoken word, and the laying on of hands can work miracles that the eye can’t see and the mind can’t reason out. I can testify to that from personal experience. Coach K’s 800th win was a fun game to watch. Just 102 more (?) to catch up with Bob Knight!!
RayK | on 5/3/08
JJ it’s so good to hear that you are making the best of your situation. you’re definitely not a quiter and we admire that about you. i pray the LORD will be with David and your family especially at this time.
strength and prayers!
GO DUKE
Michelle | on 5/3/08
Sorry to hear about your brother, I will keep him my prayers because like you said prayer is very powerful.
God Bless!
Jenn | on 5/3/08
I will definitely be thinking of your brother and hope everything goes well. Surgery is no fun.
On a lighter note, as an NC State alum and lifelong Duke fan who attended the game this past weekend, it was a completely nerve racking situation as I would’ve been happy despite the outcome but wanted the win for Coach K! I fully represented with an NC State t-shirt and Duke hat, cheering just as loudly for both teams despite being on the receiving end of many evil stares. It was very exciting to be a part of history and to see Coach K, one of the people I personally look up to, reach such a special milestone.
Good Luck to you JJ and the rest of the Magic! I just wish I got to see more games on TV instead of having to watch ESPN’s gamecast online!
Rebecca | on 5/3/08
I will definitely keep your brother David in prayer. Thank you for sharing the opportunity and privilege of prayer for your brother. Cool beans to you for bloging and letting us know whats happening!! I haven’t seen the Semi-Pro yet, but I loved the previews. Thanks for the heads up! I think its great that you got to talk to Coach K on his 800th win. That was awesome! We need some of those insanely great skills on the court this coming Saturday against UNC. Go Duke!! By the way, I saw a commercial for a Better Basketball DVD series that featured you on it. Kudos to you! Stay Classy, Rebecca
StephinNC | on 5/3/08
Well… So “Happy” for the Magic. They are definitely a team that the competitiors need to look out for.
Unfortunately, I have not had the opportunity to see “Semi-Pro” I hear it is a very funny movie.
I am so sorry to hear about David’s illness. I will certainly keep him in my prayers and hope for a speedy recovery.
God Bless you and your family,
Stephanie
Jen | on 5/3/08
JJ, David will be in my prayers. It’s so awesome of how well Orlando is doing! I am defenitly rooting for them all the time:) I am currently watching Duke beat UVA and I hope they come out with another strong win and then work hard for the game against UNC! It makes me sad to think that it’s already march and college bball season only has another month left for the year. Glad you are doing well! God bless-with Love, Jen
nate4 | on 5/3/08
You have the best additude of almost anyone i know. u arn’t getting playing time and you still have a very possitive attitude, that is great. i will be sure to pray for David
Huge Duke Fan | on 5/3/08
What a great attitude you have about your team and about the playing time! As I write this I’m watching the game against the Wizards- GOO Magic! You’re attitude and commitment to your team will take you a long way!
David will definelty be in my prayers! Remember that God is just and faithful to come through and meet any need that you ask of him. God also has a plan for David’s life and yours- Jeremiah 29:11.
Hoping for the best in tonight’s game!
Mikesj | on 5/3/08
I saw your interview last night. I gotta say I happy you won’t be in Orlando much longer. It’s not your fault they have a ballhog midget playing PG. I’m sure you will succeed where ever you end up. Where ever it is, make sure you make SVG pay for all that time on the bench, and get back #4. Now if I could just get the Magic to refund me the last two seasons of league pass on the basis of fraud I’d be in business.
shell | on 5/3/08
I’m sure you are sick of hearing about playing time, so I’m going to try and not post so many articles about it to the fan site. I’m a Celtics fan, so I can’t cheer for the Magic, but I’m glad they’re doing well for your sake. I’m sending prayers for your brother. I hope everything goes well and he has a speedy recovery. Take care.
eric cooley | on 5/3/08
thanks JJ. yeah, we (I included) should all just shutup about the PT issue. its hard to though, we want you to shine. you will.
and yes, SEMI-PRO is hilarious!
Rachel | on 5/3/08
I will keep your brother in my thoughts and hope that all goes well for him and your family!
Shay Teague | on 5/3/08
It’s good to hear how much emphasis you put on prayer. I had to learn how important it is in a not so easy way but very glad I did. I’ve been praying for your family lately wasn’t sure why but now I guess I know. I’ll be sure to pray harder for your brother. Hope everything goes well. Brothers and sisters in Christ, ShayMaggie | on 5/3/08
Hey, JJ! I’m really glad to hear from you! Orlando will be playing in DC tonight and that’s like an hour from where I live so I wish I could come see you. I couldn’t agree with you more about Nickelback. They’re probably my least favorite rock band. I actually like their song “Hero” though. I think it’s only because it was the theme song of the first Spiderman movie and that’s in my top 5 favorite movies of all time. Good luck to the Magic! I hope you guys get to a hundred wins! I know how frustrating and annoying it must be for you to keep on hearing about all that stuff. Duke’s looking amazing this year! That NC State game was intense. I was so nervous during the whole game. Sorry, JJ, but I’ve never even heard of that movie. I’m not a big fan of comedies myself. I’m more into action and violence movies. I’m sorry to hear about David. I really hope everything goes well and he has a good recovery. I’ll will pray for him. Oh, and btw I heard “Into the Wild” is coming out on DVD today ;) ! Well, I think it was today.
Well, good luck with the rest of the season and I hope everything you’re doing well.
lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots of LOVE
Maggie
xoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxoxo
P.S. I’m sorry I make all my comments really long :(
Claire | on 5/3/08
I am happy for the magic, but i hope next year can be better for you personally. I’m happy to know you still talk with Coach K! That 800 win was amazing, it seemed like just yesterday you were playing when he received his 700th win. Have you talked to any of the players specifically this year? Served as a bit if a mentor to anyone? I will keep your brother in my prayers. Are you going to be doing summer league this year? I hope all is well. Best of luck to you and the Magic in the playoffs.
Dee | on 5/3/08
Pray for David – will do.