The Journal Times Online - Racine, Wisconsin

CB: "I'm definitely going to get next to him and share my thoughts with him.on a lot of things I've been doing. And I want some of his knowledge and advice to rub off on me.

"He's real close to (congresswoman) Gwen Moore and that's someone who I am real close to in my circle.

"I can't wait to meet our next president of the United States.

What would you say to him?

CB: “I’d talk to him about education. I have three children and I want to know more about his plans for education. And I want to ask him what his plans are for the economy and the world in general. Smart questions. Dumb questions. I’d ask him whatever came to mind.’’

Enough of the politics … What kind of season do you envision the Wizards having?

CB: “I expect a great year. We started out 0-5 last year and we bounced back. This team was real resilient. I feel we can do the same thing this year. We got a lot of younger guys playing major roles this season, so they have to become accustomed to their new roles and understand the NBA is about consistency.

“You got to bring it night in, night out. It’s not like high school. It’s not like college, where you can have a great game and then chill for a couple of games. You got to bring it every night and, if you don’t, nobody is going to feel sorry for you.’’

The Wizards have been plagued by key injuries the last two season and already Gilbert Arenas is out. Are the Wizards snake-bitten?

CB: “That’s what they say. We haven’t had the best of luck, but at the same time, we got better every year. Even last year with Gilbert out, we won more games than the year prior.

“We’re just trying to get better every year and, under the leadership of myself and Antwan (Jamison) and the other veteran guys, we can get it done.’’

If your team stays healthy, can the Wizards make a run at the championship?

CB: “Definitely. Definitely. I feel we can make a run at it without everybody healthy. So, when Gilbert gets back – he’s one of the best finishers in the game – I feel we definitely got a chance.

CB: "I think it was even. I think Detroit will be a contender with Allen Iverson, one of the greatest players ever, and Rasheed Wallace (contract) will come off the books, so they'll have a lot o cap space to do a lot of things.''

 The Bucks made wholesale changes during the offseason. What’s your take on the new-look Bucks?

CB: “They look good. Scott Skiles is one of the best coaches out there. His tenacity and all his tendencies rub off on his teams and the defensive intensity and energy he brings you can now see in the Bucks players’ eyes.

“They have a great lineup. You have Michael Redd playing so hard at both ends of the floor, Richard Jefferson is a very good player, Luc Ridnour is a creator, (Ramon) Sessions is coming into his own, (Andrew) Bogut has been good the first couple of games. They look good.

“I’m happy to see them playing so well because I’m a hometown guy. I always root for the Bucks. Just to see them play well is great.''

You have played against Jefferson on numerous occasions. What's your opinion of him?

CB: “He’s an All-Star caliber player. He’s a real good talent. He’s one of the top scorers in the league until he got hurt last year. I hope the best for him and I know he can lead this team to some wonderful things.’’

You mentioned you are a hometown guy and root for the Bucks. Would you ever want to play for them some day?

CB: “You never know, man. It would be fun to play at home. I grew up watching the Bucks with Sidney Moncrief and the Packers with Brett Favre. Like I said, I always root for the home team.’’

Remarkably, your teammate, Etan Thomas, is back playing after undergoing heart surgery. Being around him so much, how tough was his comeback?

CB: “It was tough. We were all supportive of him, telling him not to rush back, that he should take his time. I can’t believe he came back so sharp. He came back great, running the court, dunking, making physical contact. What he’s done is unbelievable.’’

Best player in the NBA?

''CB: "Kobe Bryant.''

Why?

CB: “He’s Kobe Bryant, man.’’

Best unknown player in the NBA?

CB: “There’s a lot of guys out there who fit that description. But I like J.R. Smith (of the Denver Nuggets). He’s tough.''CB: "Kobe Bryant.''

You’re a movie buff and have seen countless films. Is the Godfather still your favorite?

CB: “Yes. Definitely.’’

Are there any movies that are coming out that have piqued your curiosity?

CB: “There’s a movie coming out in early January. It’s called “Hurricane Season.’’ It’s about Hurricane Katrina and a basketball team that stayed together and weathered the storm and went on to win a championship.

“Actually, it’s my movie debut with Lit’ Wayne, Forest Whitaker and a bunch of others. It’s an all-star cast.’’

And what’s your role?

CB: “I play myself. I have a nice little part. My agent (Raymond Brothers) actually produced the movie. It’s great, so make sure to check it out.’’