Earlier today, the Warriors took part in Media Day. The annual event not only marks the official start of training camp, it gives media members their first access to the players for the upcoming season. It also gives Comcast SportsNet Bay Area, KNBR and other media outlets the ability to film and record promotional spots for the upcoming season. And from the team's perspective, Media Day serves as the time to film various pieces that will be used throughout the season on TV and at ORACLE Arena. Lastly, the players all pose for a wide variety of photos - from posed portraits to NBA headshots to promotional pictures.
One of the many highlights of Media Day was Andris Biedrins. The 6-foot-11 center, who just recently returned from Europe after leading his Latvian national team to a 4-2 record in EuroBasket 2009 qualifying, was mic’d up and had a film crew following him for the entire duration of Media Day. Andris provided constant entertainment throughout the day, but his refusal to take part in one requested pose during a photo shoot had onlookers busting up with laughter.
Throughout Media Day, players are requested to pose for several photos for many different promotions throughout the season. One such shot called for Andris to wear a Santa Claus hat. But as we all know, Andris takes great pride in the appearance of his spikey hair. Not wanting to mess up the hairdo, Andris passed on the holiday-themed promotion shoot and saved that for his last appearance of the day.
Other highlights included Ronny Turiaf being incredbily energetic and hilarious at every station (just wait until you see some of his in-arena videos this year), the rookies being asked to read cue cards for perhaps the first time and Stephen Jackson and Al Harrington filming a music-related spot that turned in to a full-on karaoke and dance session
While today was a lot of fun for everyone involved, the players and coaching staff know that now it's time to get down to business. The Warriors will hold their first of seven "double-day practices"
tomorrow, and we will be there with full coverage and as much exclusive information as we can get. Stay tuned for updates and much, much more.
