T. Parker: "I'm playing my best basketball"

Tony Parker talks about the great season he's having with the Spurs. The French point guard also gives us some fresh news about Ronny Turiaf and teammates Ginobili and Splitter.

The Spurs have won their last ten games. The team has to be fired up right now?

Well, we are trying to stay cool. The most important thing for us this season is to stay healthy and to be ready for the playoffs. Last year, we won the Western Conference but we lost in the first round against Memphis. As a result, this season, we are really focused on the playoffs. It’s the only thing that really counts.

What can you tell us about the win against the Clippers?

It’s a huge win for us, even if we lost Manu (Ginobili) and Tiago (Splitter). It was such a big game. The Clippers are playing great and they are among the favorites this season. To beat them on their own court is great. And we won in overtime which shows the character of our team.

What happened with Ginobili and Splitter? Are they going to be ok?

After the game, we were really worried but it isn’t as bad as we thought. Manu should be back soon. The results of his MRI exam are positive. As for Tiago, he didn’t go back to San Antonio, he stayed with the team. So he is fine.

Personally, you finished the Clippers game with 30 points and 10 assists. You are playing really well lately?

Yes I’m in great form. I’m really aggressive on the court. And it works! But it’s not only me, the team is winning too. Our young players are playing well. We need to maintain this rhythm for as long as we can.

You’ve even been mentioned for the MVP award? How special is that?

It’s great. I’m seventh on the MVP list. It’s a great thing for the team and for the entire Spurs’ organization. Lebron and Durant are the two main favorites but having my name next to theirs is really nice.

Have you ever played as good as this year?

I had great seasons in 2007 and 2009 but I think I’m playing my best basketball right now. I’m at least at the same level.

Do you have any news about Ronny Turiaf who is currently injured (hand)?

I talked to him recently and he’s feeling better. If everything goes as planned, he should be back right after the All Star Game. He is working very hard to be back.

It’s now official. You have been chosen to participate in the Skills Challenge as part of NBA All-Star Weekend? Your reaction?

It will be my third participation, after 2003 and 2009. Each time, I’ve been eliminated in the first round. I hope I’ll be able to reach the final this year. But there is great competition with Curry, Irving, Westbrook, Wall and Deron Williams...

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