PistonsNation.com recently scored an interview with Detroit Pistons’ rookie guard Arron Afflalo. We’re very appreciative for Arron taking time out to answer a few questions for our modest fan site. So, without further ado:

[PN] Your first name is spelled with double rr’s as opposed to the more common double aa’s. Any story behind that?

[AA] No, not really. My parents just liked that spelling better, so they went with it.

[PN] What players did you try to emulate as a kid?

[AA] Byron Scott was definitely one of my inspirations growing up. I loved how he played the game and he’s why I wore #4 at UCLA. Then Kobe Bryant came along and I instantly fell in love with his game, so I tried to model a lot of my game after his.

[PN] How surprised were you that the Pistons selected with their #27 pick after never even working you out?

[AA] Not too surprised. I heard that they liked me and that if I was there at 27, they would take a look at me. But I was ready to expect the unexpected going in because anything can happen on draft day.

[PN] You’re noted as a perimeter threat and a good defender, what would you like to add to your game for this next level?

[AA] I would like to improve my athleticism in general. The NBA has the greatest athletes in the world, so I know I’m going to have to improve that part of my game to keep up. But with a great staff here in Detroit coupled with hard work, I’m confident that can be improved.

[PN] What have your fellow L.A. bred teammates Tay & Amir Johnson told about what to expect about Michigan living?

[AA] They told me the weather isn’t as good in Detroit as in Los Angeles, but I’ll get used to it eventually.

[PN] What did you take away from the Vegas Summer League about some of your new teammates?

[AA] My new teammates are great players and great people. They’re all hard workers either trying to make the team or trying to keep their spot on the team. I’ll have my work cut out to try to make the team myself.

[PN] You’ve got a pretty impressive collegiate resume, but the first thing I think of is you trying to help a very emotional Adam Morrison off the floor as your Bruins were in the process of defeating Gonzaga in the ‘06 sweet sixteen. What did you say to him?

[AA] I just told him to pick his head up and that he played a great game. He had nothing to be ashamed of. He was one my toughest covers of my career at UCLA.

[PN] It’s expected that you’ll get some burn with the Pistons’ new D-League affiliate The Fort Wayne Mad Ants. First off how ’bout that team name? Secondly, are you going to approach that the same way you would spelling Rip or Chauncey?

[AA] That’s a great name. I’m thinking the Pistons should consider switching names with the Mad Ants. I’m just going to take on each challenge as it comes. If that means playing in the D-League, then I’ll gladly try to make the best out of that situation.

[PN] Thanks so much for doing this interview. We’ll be pulling for you in the red, white, & Pistons’ blue.

[AA] Thank you.

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