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One on One With Chandler Parsons

By: James Mulcahy

Florida-recruit Chandler Parsons earned the Stock Riser award in our Best of Summer feature because he moved up the rankings faster than any other player in the country last summer.  The 6’8 sharpshooter has followed up his big summer with an outstanding senior campaign.  He is averaging 24 points, 11 rebounds, 6 assists and 3 blocks for Lake Howell (25-3), the 7th ranked team in the country in our preseason top-25.  We recently caught up with Chandler for some Q&A, and he had some interesting things to say about the Florida program, Kevin Durant, and teammate Nick Calathes.  

What was the biggest factor in you choosing the University Of Florida?
“Biggest factor for choosing UF was there style of play, coaches and faculty and fan support, 2 hours from home and a great tradition.”

Was it pretty much a done deal when Florida offered?
“It wasn’t a done deal but growing up they were always my favorite so when the opportunity came I took it.”

What is Coach Donovan like?
“Coach Donovan is great. He knows basketball and I think he is the best coach in America. All his assistants are great too.”

Talk a little bit about what it’s going to be like playing with your friend and high school teammate Nick Calathes?
“Playing with Nick is going to be great. We play very well together and we hope to keep it up and help the Gators win another national championship.”

What kind of role do you feel you will play at Florida next year?
“I hope and feel I will have a big role next year. I will do anything to contribute.”

How do you feel about your #47 ranking in Hoopsreport’s 2007 class?
“I feel and think I deserve that I should be top 20 but everybody has their opinion.”

How is your senior season at Lake Howell going and what are your stats?
“We are doing good so far at Lake Howell. We are 25-3 and undefeated in Florida. We are in the district championship on Saturday. I am averaging 24pts, 11 rebounds, 6 assists, and 3 blocks.”

What would you say was your best game so far this year?
“My best game was against Helen Cox with Greg Monroe in the City of Palms. I had like 35 and 15 and played an all around great game. I wouldn’t have done it without my teammates.”

What player would you compare your game to most?
“Kevin Durant, I feel like our games are similar because of our size for our position. We are big wings who are versatile and can shoot it and that creates mismatches.”

What other hobbies do you have besides basketball?
“I like to hang out with my friends, work out and go to the movies.”

What part of college life are you looking forward to most?
“I’m looking forward to going to the NCAA tournament and winning a national championship with all the rowdy reptiles on my side.”

What is your biggest accomplishment in your basketball career so far?
“Being rated 30 by Rivals, 6th team All-American by hoopscoop, and making all-tournament teams at every tournament we were at this year.”