First great hoops memory: In sixth grade, I played a kid from Champlin Park who was quicker, faster and stronger than me. I had a good game. I was proud of myself because I faced a challenge and I overcame it.

Personal scouting report: I'm a lefty post. I bring a lot of versatility to the table. I'm not just a big, broad post who bangs down low. I'm also looking to run and beat the opposing post down the floor.

On being left-handed: It's definitely an advantage. When a defender faces up on me, it's something they have to adjust to.

Advantage to being 6-8: You can always see over a crowd and see where you're going. That's great at places like the State Fair.

The conspicuous surname? I've gotten a reaction to my last name all my life. I make the best of it. It's a conversation starter. It makes me memorable.

Worst part of basketball: Any conditioning drill. We do a lot of them. Being a big guy, I'm not going to be the fastest down the floor, but I know it will help me.

Senior year expectations: I expect me and my team to give it our all. If we do that, there is no limit to what we can achieve. I want to see how far we can take ourselves.

JIM PAULSEN