Brandon Paul primed for breakout junior season

"I definitely think my mentality has changed," Paul said on Friday following a workout. "The dedication is at a higher level. If this is something I want to do for my career, it's something I got to do seriously. I have to finish out my last two college years strong. I want to leave a legacy at Illinois. At the same time, I want to build my resume to be a great NBA player.

"Last year, I wasn't in the mindset I should have been in. I should have taken it more serious. This summer I like coming in. I look forward to waking up early. I wake up, get ready to get better and it just makes me happy every day."

Scott Powers