Q&A: OKC Thunder Guard DeAndre Liggins

How did you end up getting a tryout with the Thunder?

“Orlando decided not to bring me back. OKC called my agent and said they liked me, liked the way I played and they were going to bring me down here and work me out. I worked out for a week. Two weeks later, I came back and I've been here since.”

What do you think the Thunder likes most about you?

“My defense mostly. That's why I'm in the league, because of my defense. I'm trying to become an improved jumper-shooter and a better ball-handler.”

What are your perceptions of the organization?

“First class. Not to say Orlando wasn't first class. I mean, everybody has their differences. First class meaning everybody gets treated the same way, no matter if you're DeAndre Liggins, Russell (Westbrook) or Kevin Durant. Everybody gets treated the same way. Everybody's accountable. That's what I like about this organization.”

You've been teammates with center Daniel Orton at Kentucky and Orlando and now you're together in OKC.

“Yeah, I go somewhere, I see Daniel Orton (laughing). Everywhere I go, Daniel Orton is right there with me. In the NBA, you never know what happens. It's just fallen that way. I'm happy for Daniel. I'm happy to be here with Daniel. End of the day, we're trying to compete for a job.”

Do you think Daniel looks like Russell Westbrook in the face?

“Yes, and people say I look like Kevin Durant. I'm just trying to get a job.”

Your early thoughts on how you'll defend Russell Westbrook?

“The guy seems like he never stops. I'm just happy to be here, and I'm trying to figure everybody out. They're trying to figure me out, too.”