NBA players advice

People who have already made the jump to the NBA offer guidance for those looking for inspiration to take that next big step.

Nate Robinson, 2013 Slam Dunk Contest Champion

"I was 5'6'' in 7th grade and I'm 6'4'' now," says Nate Robinson of his basketball journey. "It's all about timing."

DeMarcus Cousins, Sacramento Kings Center

"Find a game you love and just play. Playing is the key," says DeMarcus Cousins of his basketball career. "When I was 13 years old, I had no idea that one day I would be in an NBA game or playing against an NBA player. That moment wasn't meant to be. You can't take life too seriously... You can't get too caught up in having the perfect life."

Tim Duncan, San Antonio Spurs Forward

"I believe you get better after your second year. The first year, the pressure is to do well in the league. The second year is when you learn how to handle pressure. I think that's when you start to realize who you are as a player."

Showtime Lillard, Portland Trail Blazers Guard

"Be patient - this will work out in its own way... Remember that no matter what happens, it's always going to be OK."

Randolph Morris, New Orleans Pelicans Forward

"My quest was to talk myself out of being in the NBA. The game I played growing up in the ghetto (Miami), you didn't have coaches. You had to figure it out for yourself. It was a home-run game, so when you catch it, everybody had to get to where you caught it. Once the ball leaves your hand, the other team can't control what happens.