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Dan Dickau Interview
It would have to be Portland because it is home. Nothing beats being able to play in the NBA in your hometown. You are very active in the community, especially in Spokane with the Dan Dickau/Adam Morrison Basketball Classic, the Dan Dickau Celebrity Poker Tournament and other events. Can you tell us a little bit more about these events and what led you to get involved with giving back like this? When I was in college, Spokane was so good to me that I have always wanted to have an event to give something back to them. It raised a lot of money for some good charities there. I also do a golf tournament in Vancouver, Washington [Dickau’s hometown] for one of my best friend’s ministries called “Courts For Kids.” You have been in the league five years, and been traded seven times. What goes through your mind when you get the news, and how difficult is it to come into a new team like that in the middle of the season? The first thing that I think about when I hear I’m traded is how am I going to tell my wife this time? Going into a new situation basketball-wise, is not too hard. I've played for so many coaches it is simple now. Once you pick up on terminology its back to just being basketball What is one thing about Vancouver, Washington that you think people should know about? It is near Portland, not near Canada You were the first All-American in Gonzaga history, how much pride do you take in being one of the players that helped turn the school into a perennial basketball power? I take a ton of pride in that. I feel that there was the crew right before me that started it and then I took it to the next step. Then [current Charlotte Bobcats forward] Adam [Morrison] and those guys took it to the next level and will keep it there for years to come. Caught in draft, Dickau rides NBA trade winds
January 7, 2008 Forgive Dan Dickau if he grows more anxious when the 2008 NBA draft approaches. Why? He has found himself part of a draft-day trade in each of the past two years. The deals represent two of the trades he has endured, but there were many more. "I've lost count," Dickau said. Calling Dickau a journeyman could be viewed as an understatement. He has been traded eight times, played for six teams and been associated with nine teams in his six-year NBA career. His love of playing basketball and strong faith help him handle the constant change in his career. "I feel very blessed to be in the NBA and I love what I do," Dickau said. "I had a dream of playing in the NBA since I was a little boy and I've been fortunate and blessed with the skills and opportunities to get me here." The former Prairie High School (in Battle Ground, Wash.) and Gonzaga star signed with the Los Angeles Clippers during the summer -- meaning he would be playing for his sixth team in six NBA seasons. Dickau, 29, is averaging 5.8 points and 2.8 assists a game in 23 games this season. His assist-to-turnover ratio is a solid 2.71, giving Clippers coach Mike Dunleavy a reason to feel confident in Dickau. "He's made shots and he's done a good job of running the club," Dunleavy told reporters Dec. 30. "On a given night, if we need more offense, it will probably be Dan we go with." Although Dickau said he enjoys playing for the Clippers, he would rather play closer to home, something he has done twice during his career. He came to the Blazers as part of the trade that sent Rasheed Wallace to the Atlanta Hawks (for Shareef Abdur-Rahim and Theo Ratliff) in February 2004. He played in 20 games, averaging 7.6 minutes a game, before the Blazers traded him and Dale Davis to the Golden State Warriors for Nick Van Exel in July. Dickau returned to Portland when the Boston Celtics traded him, Raef LaFrentz and the draft rights to Randy Foye to the Blazers for Ratliff, Sebastian Telfair and a 2006 second-round pick during the 2006 NBA draft. Dickau's numbers (3.3 points, 1.4 assists in 8.9 minutes) in Portland the second time were far off his career season (13.2 points, 5.2 assists in 31.0 minutes) with the New Orleans Hornets in 2004-05, but he was surprised when his name surfaced again in a draft-day trade last summer. This time, the Blazers traded him, Zach Randolph and Fred Jones to the New York Knicks for Channing Frye and Steve Francis. "To be traded on draft day with no warning was very disappointing," Dickau said. "From everything I was told, I was going to be a very integral part of what they wanted in players . . . and I was going to have a chance to compete for major minutes." With Stephon Marbury, Jamal Crawford and Nate Robinson, the Knicks were well-stocked at guard, so Dickau knew his time in New York would be brief. The Knicks bought out the final year of his contract and waived him Oct. 2. He signed a one-year deal worth $770,610 with the Clippers the next day. Knowing Shaun Livingston would be out until at least March while rehabilitating his surgically repaired right knee and that the team needed a backup for Sam Cassell, 38, Dickau figured he would play. However, the brittle Cassell missed 12 of the Clippers' first 31 games with injuries, and Dickau is averaging 18.1 minutes, the most since he was in New Orleans. "I pretty much knew the coaches were going to have me in a limited role to start off, but they were comfortable with me playing extended minutes if guys got hurt," Dickau said. "That's one reason why I really do need to stay ready here more so than in other places in the past." Despite his solid play, Dickau isn't going to buy a house in Los Angeles. If Livingston returns, the Clippers would have four point guards -- Dickau, Cassell, Livingston and Brevin Knight -- on the roster. Someone is going to be the odd player out. Clippers Sign Guard Dan Dickau October 3, 2007 The Los Angeles Clippers today signed free agent guard Dan Dickau. Per team policy, terms of the contract were not released. Dickau was waived by the New York Knicks on Oct. 1 after joining the team in a trade from Portland on June 28. Dickau played in 50 games last season for the Trail Blazers, making three starts and averaging 3.3 points and 1.4 assists. A five-year NBA veteran, Dickau has career averages of 6.0 points, 1.3 rebounds and 2.5 assists in 233 career games. The 29-year old Oregon native was selected with the 28th pick in the first round of the 2002 NBA Draft by Sacramento. The Kings traded his rights Atlanta, and Dickau made 73 appearances for the Hawks before being traded to Portland on Feb. 9, 2004. A First Team All-American performer and the West Coast Conference Player of the Year at Gonzaga University as a senior, Dickau played for the Mavericks and Hornets in 2004-05 before moving to Boston and appearing in 19 games with the Celtics in 2005-06. In 67 games with New Orleans in 2004-05, Dickau averaged a career-high 13.2 points. Dickau began his college career at the University of Washington before transferring to Gonzaga and developed into a star over his last two college seasons, finishing his career seventh on the school's all-time assists list (299). 2007 Charity Classic Recap by Jim Meehan, Spokesman Review
That unsettling piece of news had zero impact on Dickau, who posed for photos, signed countless autographs and deftly handled a Q & A session with about 100 about an hour before tipoff Thursday. Then, he scored 39 points and walked off with MVP honors, which he discussed, along with his uncertain future in the S-R game recap. At one time, 10 ex-Zags were on the court. The 3,527 fans (smaller than anticipated) seemed to thoroughly enjoy the events of the evening. Sonics center Robert Swift was a no show (he missed his flight). Fred Jones and Ime Udoka were in attendance, but neither suited up. Ex-Zag Mike Nilson wasn't going to play, but buckled to pressure from teammates and played 12 minutes. Derek Raivio also didn't play, but he informed Dickau that he was leaving to pursue a professional opportunity overseas. Ex-Zag Winston Brooks is planning on playing in Germany and Errol Knight is heading to Israel. Dan Dickau Team’s Up with Mobius Kids to give a chance at being a Ball Boy or Girl at the Toyota Spokane All-American’s Charity Classic Game Now is your chance.....A dream of so many children is to be a ball boy or girl and now it might happen. Dan Dickau along with Mobius Kids and the Inlander can help fulfill the dreams of four children. They are holding a contest for kids to win a chance to be a ball boy or girl at the 2007 Toyota Spokane All-American’s Charity Classic presented by Northern Quest Casino, featuring Dan Dickau and Adam Morrison. Each contestant must explain in fifty words or less why he or she should be picked to be the ball boy or girl at the Charity Classic. Entries must include name, age, email and phone number and be submitted to contests@inlander.com or Attn: Contests Four winners will be chosen on August 16th, 2007. Not to worry, if you are not chosen, you still have the chance to meet NBA star Dan Dickau and the fun and friendly “Grizz”, the Memphis Grizzle mascot. On August 22, 2007, from 1 to 2 pm at Mobius Kids, children can mingle with Dan Dickau and “Grizz”. But don’t forget to purchase your tickets to the 2007 Toyota Spokane All-American’s Charity Classic so you can see Dan, Adam and their NBA friends play for fun and charity at the McCarthy Athletic Center on August 23, 2007 at 7pm. Go to Ticketswest.com and purchase today. Dan Dickau and Adam Morrison are Hosting the "2007 Toyota All-American's Charity Classic" Northwest Sports & Entertainment Inc. in association with Gonzaga University, Dan Dickau and Adam Morrison, announces the return of the “Toyota Spokane All-American’s Charity Classic” (Formerly Dan Dickau Charity Classic). This will be the third consecutive summer classic featuring current NBA Players with former Gonzaga alum playing together in an event to raise money for Spokane area charities. “The Toyota Spokane All-American’s Charity Classic” presented by Northern Quest Casino is a summer highlight for basketball fans in the inland northwest. The classic will also include several opportunities to meet and greet these great players in other charity events surrounding the basketball game, such as the halftime Deal or No Deal contest where contestants have the chance to win $10,000, and the Celebrity Poker Tournament on August 22 at Northern Quest Casino. Last year’s Charity Classic proved to be another fun and exciting evening for fans as an intense basketball game broke out that ended with a 141-135 overtime win by the Dan Dickau-coached White Team. Even with the exhilarating overtime, it was the 4th quarter showdown between the Blue Team’s Adam Morrison and the White Team’s Kyle Korver that grabbed the fan’s attention and had them talking for days. Players from last summer’s Charity Classic included NBA players Dan Dickau, Adam Morrison, LaMarcus Aldridge, Brandon Roy, Kyle Korver, Richie Frahm, and others along with former Gonzaga Alumni including Blake Stepp, Richard Fox, and others. This summer Gonzaga Alum Derek Ravio will be added to the Charity Classic Roster. Host, Dan Dickau, the former Gonzaga 1st team All-American and current Portland Trail Blazers Guard, is now fully recovered from his 2006 season that ended with an Achilles Tendon injury sustained while playing for the Boston Celtics in December, 2005. Hosting along with Dickau this year is Adam Morrision. Another former Gonzaga player, Morrison now plays for the NBA Charlotte Bobcats. He had a great rookie campaign, averaging 11.8 points per game and 2.90 rebounds per game. The game is scheduled for Thursday, August 23rd, 2007, at McCarthey Athletic Center on the Campus of Gonzaga and tip off is at 7:00pm. You can buy your tickets starting Saturday June 23 at 10am at all Ticketswest locations or www.ticketswest.com Dan Dickau and Adam Morrison Hosting the "2007 Toyota All-American's Charity Classic" June 18, 2007 WHO: WHAT: In what was supposed to be another fun evening for fans along with current NBA players and former Gonzaga stars, a real basketball game broke-out and ended with a 141-135 overtime win by the Dickau coached White team. However, during the 4th quarter the showdown between the Blue Team’s Adam Morrison and the White teams Kyle Korver was the attention grabber for the fans. Dan Dickau, the former Gonzaga 1st team All-American and current Portland Trail Blazers Guard, fully recovered from his 2006 season ending Achilles Tendon injury sustained while playing for the Boston Celtics in December, 2005. Another former Gonzaga player, Adam Morrison now plays for the NBA Charlotte Bobcats. He had a great rookie campaign, averaging 11.8 points per game and 2.90 rebounds per game. “The Toyota All-American Charity Classic” presented by Northern Quest Casino is a summer highlight for basketball fans in the inland northwest. The classic will also include several opportunities to meet and greet these great players in other charity events surrounding the game, including a celebrity Poker tournament on August 22, along with a halftime Deal or no Deal game for $10,000. WHEN: WHERE: TICKETS: Dan Dickau Charity Classic is NOW THE:
This summer marks the 3rd annual Charity Classic featuring NBA players Dan Dickau and Adam Morrison. The Charity Classic hosts current NBA players and former Gonzaga players competing together in an event to raise money for Spokane area charities. The basketball game takes place Thursday, August 23 at Gonzaga’s McCarthy Athletic Center in Spokane, WA. Dan is Back With His 2nd Annual Celebrity Charity Poker Tournament In conjunction with the 2007 Toyota Spokane All American’s Charity Classic, Northwest Sports & Entertainment, Inc brings you the second annual Dan Dickau Celebrity Charity Poker Tournament. This event is held the night before the Charity Classic at Spokane’s Northern Quest Casino. First prize for the poker tournament will include a 50” flat screen HD television and a trip for two to New York City to watch the Trail Blazers battle the Knicks at Madison Square Garden. For more information and to participate in the Celebrity Poker Tournament, click here. 2nd Annual Dan Dickau Shootout presented by Portland Candle The 2nd Annual Dan Dickau Shootout presented by Portland Candle will tee off at The Cedars on Salmon Creek on Thursday, August 30, 2007. There will be a BBQ lunch beginning at 11:30, followed by a shotgun start at 1:00. The cost to play in the event is $150, which includes golf, lunch, great tee prizes from Nike, silent auction items from Nautilus among others, and entrance into a raffle with a chance to win many more prizes. More » Dan Dickau traded to the New York Knicks June 28, 2007 NEW YORK (Ticker) - The New York Knicks have acquired a headache - but one that can score. The Knicks acquired forward Zach Randolph and guards Dan Dickau and Fred Jones from the Portland Trail Blazers for forward Channing Frye and guard Steve Francis. Dickau, who averaged 3.4 points and 1.4 assists in limited action, will add needed depth to New York's backcourt. Shoot-first guard Stephon Marbury and the defensive-minded Mardy Collins currently are the only floor generals on the Knicks' roster. Randolph has been a much-maligned player over the years for some off-the-court problems, including being spotted at a strip club while taking a bereavement leave after his wife's cousin's death at the end of last season. But it was a much-needed move for the Knicks, who are looking for reliable scorers on the interior to complement center Eddy Curry. Forwards David Lee and Renaldo Balkman are talented but cannot get their own shots. Randolph certainly can produce, averaging 23.6 points and 10.1 rebounds last season. He certainly will demand double-teams in the post and allow shooters like guard Jamal Crawford to have more room to operate. Portland will get Channing Frye, who had a stellar rookie season but did not improve in his second year out of Arizona. Frye is a jump-shooter but struggled with his back to the basket and on the glass with the Knicks. The Knicks also dealt Francis, improving their murky salary cap situation. It also was a calculated move by the Blazers, who drafted center Greg Oden with the first overall pick. The 7-0 center will need room on the post to develop his offensive game that needs some more polish. A former slam-dunk champion, Jones also will provide the Knicks with more athleticism. The guard averaged 6.5 points in limited minutes with the Blazers last season. Dickau may be leader Blazers have been looking for January 13, 2007 by Brian Meehan - The Oregonian Meehan: Dickau lifts weights, runs to stay strong D an Dickau's perseverance might be the best metaphor to guide this young Portland Trail Blazers team the rest of the season. Dickau has spent most of his fifth NBA season buried in basketball's basement, a gloomy realm where many a player loses his way. The former Gonzaga guard languished on the inactive list for eight games. He didn't play in 11 others and saw mop-up minutes in 18 more. Yet Dickau never surrendered to self-doubt; he never lost faith that his chance would come. And he was determined to be ready when that moment came -- as it did Friday night. "You can be a pessimist or an optimist about it, and I have always been an optimist," said Dickau, after starting for the first time this season and helping Portland defeat Sacramento 95-87. "Basketball is just too much fun for me," he said. "I have too much fun coming to the gym every day and lifting weights and doing the elliptical trainer or the treadmill. If you don't do those things, you are just shooting yourself in the foot." Friday night, it was Dickau who was doing the shooting. In 23 minutes, he scored 11 points, had two assists and only one turnover. They may not be big numbers until you consider how hard it is to stay in shape once the NBA season starts. NBA teams don't practice often enough or long enough for bench players to stay in condition or keep their shooting touch. This is where many guys flounder. But Dickau instead chose to put himself in a position to succeed. "He works hard every day," said Juan Dixon, who tossed in 21 points on an 8 of 13 shooting night. "He comes in early every day to lift weights and get his extra shots up. Dan is a true professional." And that is where the example looms for the other Blazers. After 38 games, the Blazers are 15-23, one game ahead of last season's dismal pace. Coach Nate McMillan says this season has a different feel even if the record doesn't speak to it. "I feel better about this group," McMillan said. "Last year, we had a number of guys who were part of a past era, guys that didn't want to be here. This year we are young and while the record is similar, we now are focused on a direction. It certainly feels different." Last season was painful to watch for any basketball fan. This season, while frustrating at times, has been more interesting. And although the playoffs remain on a distant horizon, this season could get even more interesting if the team pays attention to the blueprint Dickau drew. It's called work, baby. When Dickau was on the inactive list, he lifted weights twice a day -- before the morning shootaround and before tipoff that night. He also logged hours on the treadmill doing sprint intervals to keep his wind. Then it was on to the stationary bicycle or the elliptical trainer. He capped it off with an extended shooting workout before games. For Dickau, it was all part of staying true to his NBA dream. To do less would have only destroyed the thing he loved best -- playing basketball against the best players in the world. "I've been through a lot in my short career," he said. "I knew coming in to this season that things weren't going to be given to me. I was going to have to prove it to the coach that I could play." Friday night, Dickau took a big step in proving something to his coach. More than that, however, he proved something to teammates about what it means to be a pro. Last season, the Blazers crashed in the final 44 games, going 7-37. But if this team emulates the attitude and work ethic Dickau has demonstrated, the final half of the season will be a time of work and building momentum into next season. Dickau may not start another game this season, but he delivered a leader's lesson to his team. Brian Meehan: 503-221-4341; brianmeehan@news.oregonian.com Dan is ready for the new look 2006-2007 Portland Trail Blazers October 30, 2006 On the eve of the NBA opening night Dan Dickau is healthy and ready to contribute to the new look Blazers Team. The Trail Blazers finished the 2005-06 campaign with a league-worst 21-61 record and missed the playoffs for a third straight year, but took extreme measures over the off season to completely rebuild the franchise that including bringing back the 5th year point guard from Gonzaga. Dan was acquired along with Raef LaFrentz, and a first round draft pick (Foye) via a draft night trade that sent point guard Sebastian Telfair, forward Theo Ratliff, and a second round draft pick with the Boston Celtics. This years team should be lead by Power forward Zach Randolph who led the Trail Blazers in scoring (18.0 ppg) and rebounding (8.0 rpg), while Steve Blake, who was traded to Milwaukee during the offseason, dished out a team-best 4.5 assists per game. Randolph is Portland's best player and gives them a presence in the low post. Guard Jarrett Jack and forward Martell Webster showed some promise as rookies in 2005-06, while guard Juan Dixon netted 12.3 per game in 76 contests. Disgruntled forward Darius Miles played 40 games and registered 14.0 points and 4.6 rebounds. Miles would like to be traded and the team will most likely continue its attempt to try and accommodate him. Besides the mentioned Dan Dickau trade, draft night was a very busy time for the franchise. When the night was over, Portland had LaMarcus Aldridge of Texas and highly-tauted guard Brando Roy of Washington in the fold. The Trail Blazers traded the rights to Villanova guard Randy Foye, who was selected No. 7 overall by the Celtics, along with cash considerations to Minnesota for the rights to Roy, who the Timberwolves selected with the sixth pick in round one. They had acquired the rights to the seventh overall selection through an earlier trade with Boston. Portland, which made some lesser moves as the draft progressed, is trying to turn the franchise. The draft was a excellent start. Aldridge and Roy are not only excellent players, but they have good character, which is something that the Trail Blazers could use on their roster. A step in the right direction for this club. Not to mention the talented Dickau whom also brings great character to the Blazers. Center Jamaal Magloire was obtained from Milwaukee in a deal for Blake, while Joel Przybilla, who averaged 6.1 points and 7.0 boards in 56 contests last season, re-signed with the club and will team with Magloire to give Portland a solid tandem in the middle. Head coach Nate McMillan is back for his second season with the club. After last season, McMillan has to be happy with the changes and the young players he will be coaching. McMillan will put his stamp on the team in the 2006-07 campaign. BACKCOURT With Blake and Telfair gone, the point guard duties will be handled by Dickau and Jack. Jack averaged 6.7 points and 2.8 assists last season. Roy and Dixon will compete for playing time at shooting guard. The rookie Roy is the real deal and will have an impact in his first year in the league. Dixon's name was involved in trade rumors and he could be wearing a new uniform in the near future. FRONTCOURT Magloire averaged 9.2 points and 9.5 rebounds in 82 games for Milwaukee last season. He is very tough down low and will team with Randolph to makeup a tough duo in the paint on both ends of the court. The 28-year-old center is in the last year of his contract and should have a productive season in Portland. The Trail Blazers actually should be excited about the future with their frontcourt. If Aldridge can develop into a productive low post NBA player and the 19-year-old Webster's game continues to mature, there could be a lot to look forward to. Portland knows what Randolph is going to give it, while Miles is just playing out his days with the Blazers. The 30-year-old LaFrentz, who registered 7.8 points and 5.0 boards per game in 82 contests for Boston in 2005-06, is still serviceable and can hit the outside jumper. OUTLOOK The Trail Blazers are finally doing a complete makeover. Acquiring Dickau, Roy and Aldridge on draft night was a great first step. The process is still in the beginning stages. Another trip to the lottery is a good thing for this franchise. Adding more talent through the draft is how this team will keep building for a better future. Dan is back in Portland and is ready for training camp October 3, 2006 Point Guard Dan Dickau is back in a Portland Trailblazers uniform after a draft day trade with the Boston Celtics and is anxious to return to form after last years season ending Achilles injury. Dan’s rehab since this past January has continued to be ahead of schedule and Dan is currently 90% and should be ready for the season opener November 1st in Seattle. He is expected to be in all camp drills and exhibitions this month. Despite the injury and continuous rehab Dan did manage to once again raise over $125,000 for charities with three separate events in Spokane and the Portland area. $22,000 Raised in the first Dan Dickau Golf Shootout September 2, 2006 On an amazingly beautiful day this past August 31, 2006, Dan hosted his first Dan Dickau Golf Shootout presented by SVilhauerCO. Event Organizer Derek Nesland has announced more than $22,000 raised for the Portland Area Fellowship of Christian Athletes. The Event held at The Cedars on Salmon Creek in Brush Prairie, WA, was host to 29 foursome teams in a best ball event. Dan an avid golfer in the off-season was unable to fend off winning teams in his tournament. The Team from TWP Investment Management consisting of Todd Pisarczyk, John Stehlik, Greg Railsback and David Yang has a gross handicap score of 55. While Josh Schwartz, Quinn Irvine, Donnie Robertson, and Kelly Winn from the American International Forest Products team won the net scoring with a 57. The team from Northwest Sports & Entertainment finished last with a gross score of 80, 12 strokes behind the 28th place finisher matched their score with the number (80) of golf balls that were lost by that team during the 18 hole event. The team consisted of members from the Trailblazers office and Northwest Sports. All golfers in the event received gifts from Nike and a pre-game buffet lunch. Afterwards players were treated with a small reception that included more than 60 prizes, gifts, and raffle items including a one on one golf match with Dan next summer. Based on the first year success Dan has committed to continue next summer. Charity Classic a Great Success! July 31, 2006 In what was supposed to be another fun evening for fans along with current NBA players and former Gonzaga stars, a real basketball game broke-out and ended with a 141-135 overtime win by the Dickau coached White team. This was quite a contrast from last years runaway blowout by the Jason Terry led team in the little defense 181-155 2005 event. This year 3500 or so fans witness the final seconds of the second annual Toyota Dan Dickau Charity Basketball game at Gonzaga University’s McCarthey Athletic Center were treated to a dramatic conclusion led by several past GU stars who took part in the event. J.P. Batista, an immensely popular member of last year’s GU team that advanced to the Sweet Sixteen of the NCAA tournament, celebrated his return to campus by scoring 33 points for his victorious squad. On the other side Richie Frahm, a member of the bulldogs 1999 team that made it to NCAA’s Elite eight, let the Blue team in scoring with 32 points.
“This was the Charity/Exhibition type game I have seen in the 10 years I have been referring these types of contests,” remarked veteran NBA official Richardson. Besides Korver, NBA players such as Seattle Sonics Center Robert Swift, Boston Celtics Forward Brian Scalbrine, and Current New Orleans Hornets guard Janero Pargo, brother of current Gonzaga player Jeremy Pargo all came out to Spokane to join in the contest. “It was great: a lot of fun,” said Dickau, a former first-team All-American point guard at GU, who was relegated to coaching this year because of an Achilles tendon injury he suffered last while playing for the Celtics. “Last year was good, but this year was even better, because it was a close game and I think the guys played pretty hard.” The crowd seemed to deeply appreciate the effort and gave standing ovations to both Batista and Morrison, a first-round draft pick of the Charlotte Bobcats in this summer’s NBA Draft, when they were introduced before the game. "It's always fun to come back here," said Batista, who signed a professional contract to play in Lithuania earlier in the day after playing for the Minnesota Timberwolves in the NBA's Summer League. "I love this place. It's like my second home. There's nothing like playing in front of your home crowd." Batista, who also pulled down 15 rebounds, said he is scheduled to report to his Lithuanian team later this summer, but plans to play for his home country of Brazil in the upcoming World Basketball Championships prior to that. Morrison decided to participate after returning earlier this week from Las Vegas where he failed to make the final cut for the team that will represent the United States in the World Championships. "Adam's a basketball junkie," Dickau said. "We knew if he was back in town in time, he was going to play." But Dickau said he was just as appreciative of the participation of several other former Zags, including Zach Gourde, who postponed his return to France to play for Feurs Forez Basket in order to play in the game. "That meant a ton," Dickau said. "Zach and I have known each other since we were little kids, and for him to stay around to be a part of this shows just how good a friend and person he really is." Gourde, who scored 15 points for the Blue team, which was coached by his former GU teammate Blake Stepp, who recently underwent knee surgery, was scheduled to make the trip back to France today. Dickau said he was pleased with the turnout and plans to stage the event, which benefits several local charities, again next year. Phoenix Suns Gorilla is Coming to McCarthey Center July 27, 2006 July 14, 2006
Go, as he is called by his fans, is the head mascot for the Phoenix Suns and has become one of the most well known mascots in all of professional sports. Go was a member of the inaugural induction class of the Mascot Hall of Fame. He will be performing throughout the entire charity event. He's the leading beast of the mascot jungle, a furry frequent flier who wows the crowds with his dunking prowess. The Phoenix Suns Gorilla, the dean of NBA mascots, has been entertaining Suns fans since 1980 and is now a worldwide ambassador for the Suns and the NBA. In addition to attending all Phoenix Suns home games, his list of appearances include visits to Argentina, Australia, Canada, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Italy, Mexico, the Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Switzerland and the United Kingdom - not to mention the various trips around the United States for sports events ranging from basketball to baseball to hockey. The Phoenix Suns Gorilla will be appearing at the 2nd Annual Toyota Dan Dickau Charity Classic on Thursday, July 27, 7:00 pm at the McCarthey Athletic Center located on the campus of Gonzaga University. Tickets are still on sale at all TicketsWest locations, online at www.ticketswest.com, or by phone at 1-800-325-SEAT (7328). Tickets start at $18 for upper level baseline, while lower level baseline and sideline seats are $32 & $24 respectively. The "Dan Dickau Charity Classic" tickets go on sale April 29, 2006 April 25, 2006 Tickets for the 2nd Annual Toyota Dan Dickau Charity Classic will go on sale this Saturday, April 29, 10:00 pm at all area TicketsWest locations, online at www.ticketswest.com, or by phone at 1-800-325-SEAT (7328). Tickets start at $18 for upper level baseline, while lower level baseline and sideline seats are $32 & $24 respectively. With only 5,800 seats available, a sell out is expected. Dan Dickau Coming Back to Spokane to Host "2006 Toyota Dan Dickau Charity Classic" April 19, 2006 WHO WHAT In the inaugural and highly entertaining contest last summer defense was hard to find as the Jason Terry led Red Team beat Dan’s group 181-155. Kyle Korver, Richie Frahm, Luke Jackson, Luke Ridenour, Matt Santangelo, and Zach Gourde all reached double figures while the fans enjoyed the contests and give-a-ways during the event. Dan Dickau, the former Gonzaga 1st team All-American and current Boston Celtics Guard, expects to be fully recovered from a season ending Achilles Tendon injury sustained while playing the Chicago Bulls this past December. The game will mark the first public appearance of Dan playing basketball since that injury. Dan expects many new faces to show up for this game including some of his current Celtics teammates. “The Toyota Dan Dickau Charity Classic” is a summer highlight for basketball fans in the inland northwest. The classic will also include several opportunities to meet and greet these great players in other charity events surrounding the game, including a celebrity Poker tournament on July 26, and a possible Christian Concert. WHEN WHERE TICKETS Celtic's Dickau to have Achilles' tendon surgery December 19, 2005 BOSTON (AP) -- Celtics guard Dan Dickau is scheduled for surgery Tuesday for a ruptured Achilles' tendon and might miss the rest of the season. Dickau, a third-string point guard, injured his right leg early in the fourth quarter Saturday against Chicago and was carried off the court. He had an MRI exam Sunday, and team physician Brian McKeon is operate at New England Baptist Hospital. "Dan had accepted his role with the team," Celtics basketball chief Danny Ainge. "He is a true professional and a good teammate." Dickau was averaging 3.3 points and 2.1 assists in 12 minutes. He was selected by Sacramento as the 28th pick in the 2002 draft. Starting point guard Delonte West sustained a mild concussion in the second quarter Saturday night and was questionable for Monday's home game against Golden State. Celtics Acquire Point Guard Dan Dickau September 30, 2005 Boston - The Boston Celtics announced today they have acquired point guard Dan Dickau from the New Orleans/Oklahoma City Hornets. In exchange the Celtics will send New Orleans/Oklahoma City Miami’s 2006 second round draft choice, which the Celtics acquired in a previous deal. Dickau, a 6-0 guard, enjoyed his best season in 2004-05 with Dallas and New Orleans, achieving career-high’s in nearly every major statistical category. In 71 appearances, including 46 starts, he averaged 12.5 points and 4.9 assists in 29.4 minutes per game. After being acquired from Dallas, Dickau averaged 13.2 points, 5.2 assists and 1.1 steals per game in 67 appearances with the Hornets.
NBA Summer of Goodwill NBA Summer of Goodwill Tips Off (NBA.com) Fun time for all in the 1st ever Toyota Dan Dickau Charity Classic August 1, 2005 Spokane, WA - The night was filled with great causes, a great game, fun contests, NBA style entertainment, and even Napoleon Dynamite decided to dance, the only thing missing was defense. In the first ever Classic presented by Northern Quest Casino the red team led by Dallas Maverick All-star Jason Terry ran by Dickau’s White team for a 181-155 victory in an NBA style exhibition. The proceeds from which will benefit local Spokane Charities plus the rehabilitation efforts of another former Zag, Ronny Turiaf. Read more »Portion of Dan Dickau Charity Classic proceeds to help benefit Ronny Turiaf Dan Dickau along with Northwest Sports has announced that part of the proceeds from his Charity Classic Event will go to assist Ronny Turiaf through a special fund, based on NCAA approval. There will be several ways in which fans can contribute to Ronny. A booth will be set up at the event for fans that would like to make in-kind contributions for a special fund set up for Ronny. In addition, folks contributing to the Adopt a Player program for Dan’s event will have those proceeds set aside for this purpose. Read more »Special Note From Dan, Regarding Ronny Turiaf: Heather and I would like to express our sadness to learn of Ronny’s upcoming surgery. It seems very ironic that a man with such a big heart will now have to get it fixed a bit. Ronny was one of the first guys to say yes to playing in the Charity Game later this month and he will be missed...he has always been a great teammate and good friend. Heather and I know Ronny will be strong during this stressful time and both of us will have you in our thoughts and prayers during your recovery period. I look forward to once again playing with you...so get well soon. Dan & Heather Dickau Toyota Dan Dickau Charity Classic presented by Northern Quest Casino July 30, 2005 - McCarthey Center - Spokane, WA Northwest Sports & Entertainment Inc. in association with Gonzaga University and Dan Dickau announces the 1st Annual “Toyota Dan Dickau Charity Classic presented by Northern Quest Casino.” This will be the inaugural summer classic that will include Current NBA players along with former Zags players. Dan Dickau, the former Gonzaga 1st team All-American and current New Orleans Hornets starting point guard, announces his first ever Toyota Dan Dickau Charity Classic presented by Northern Quest Casino, to benefit Coaches vs. Cancer and other local Spokane Charities. Joining Dan, will be a number of his NBA friends. Also in the game will be former University of Gonzaga basketball stars from the past that may include Blake Stepp and Cory Viollete. Others will be confirmed later this summer and announced. Players are also subject to change if a conflict arises. “Toyota Dan Dickau Charity Classic presented by Northern Quest Casino” will be an immediate summer highlight for basketball fans in the inland northwest. It is anticipated that this classic will also include several opportunities to meet and greet these great players in other charity events surrounding the game. Saturday, July 30, 2005 at 7:00 PM Where McCarthey Athletic Center on the Campus of Gonzaga Tickets Tickets are on sale now at all Ticketswest outlets and www.ticketswest.com. |




As an NBA player, you have lived in a quite a few different cities. What has been your favorite place to live and why?
The former Gonzaga star has been associated with nine teams in six years, including the Blazers twice -
It's been an interesting week for ex-Zag Dan Dickau. Since arriving in Spokane earlier this week for the Dickau/Adam Morrison charity classic, Dickau was aware of media reports that the New York Knicks are planning on releasing him.
However, it was the showdown between the Blue Team’s Adam Morrison and the White teams Kyle Korver that took up quite a bit of attention during the 4th quarter of the NBA style game. Adam, who led the nation in scoring in his final season at Gonzaga, was head up against Kyle, from the Philadelphia Sixers, who is one of the best from 3-point shooters in the game. Kyle, along with the NBA referee crew of Derek Richardson and Dan Zelinski showed Adam what he can look forward during his inaugural NBA season, with physical play and great defense from Korver. Despite Kyle’s effort Morrison finished the game with 28 points..