Wilkins On Quest To Prove Himself

<div class="quote_poster">Quote:</div><div class="quote_post">Damien Wilkins is in the unusual position of feeling unrecognized for his NBA accomplishments, yet unsatisfied with what he has contributed to the Sonics.

Wilkins scrapped his way to the NBA, signing as an undrafted free agent with the Sonics and making the club in 2004. A solid rookie season garnered the swingman a five-year, $15 million contract, but that has hardly been a source of satisfaction for the son and nephew of NBA standouts.

Last season was frustrating for Wilkins, who was switched to point guard for a stint by former coach Bob Weiss and had to prove himself all over again as a small forward for new coach Bob Hill. Wilkins didn't play as much as he wanted or in the position he desired.

"There is so much I want to prove, and hopefully I can get to do it this season," said Wilkins, who averaged 6.5 points in 82 games. "I have worked hard and hopefully I will have a chance to show that."

He wants to make a bigger impact this season, but he faces a challenge from Frenchman Mickael Gelabale, who has similar skills. Gelabale is lanky, can shoot from the outside and is a good on-ball defender.

The two will compete to back up Ray Allen or Rashard Lewis.

"I don't really go home at night and (think) I have to come in and beat Gelabale," Wilkins said. "I am just trying to make this team better, and if we can do that together, that would be great."

Wilkins watched tape with his father, Gerald, and went to work on his deficiencies, primarily outside shooting. He worked out all summer in Atlanta, save a few days in Springfield, Mass., to watch uncle Dominique's induction into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame.

During his speech, Dominique congratulated Damien for his professional success, admitting he had never really praised his nephew for beating the odds. It was an action Damien felt was long overdue. He was hurt that Atlanta, which had three second-round picks in the 2004 draft, passed on him. Dominique is the Hawks' vice president of basketball.

"He never did (give me credit)," Damien said. "He probably felt the pressure from my uncles and my dad. I never said anything. I just kind of let it go by the wayside. I was glad he said what he said, especially on that stage. I didn't see that coming, I was shocked."</div>

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