Seimone Augustus, Minnesota Lynx Guard

	Seimone Augustus, Minnesota Lynx Guard Steve Wewerka/SI

As told to Richard Deitsch

On leading the WNBA in scoring average at the All-Star break (23.2), as a rookie

I didn't expect it. I don't think anybody expected it. I came in [from LSU] with the idea of just going with the flow. I wanted to just feel my way around with my teammates and with our organization.

On adjusting to the pro game

The speed of the game and the [level of] competition is the biggest thing. You're facing the best players in the world. You have to bring it on the offensive and defensive ends. And that's every night.

On her fashion sense

Before I was into jerseys and wearing tomboyish-type stuff. As I've matured I've gotten into more of a casual look. Some jeans and a nice collared shirt.

On one day owning a clothing store

I'd sell business casual clothes and branch into the diva style. My teammates complain that they can't find shoes or clothes big enough for them. I'd like to help them out.

On designing her own clothes

I can't sew, but I did draw up my prom dress in high school. It was black satin and had some revealing places, like around the stomach area. Sleek and classy at the same time. People were surprised that I even put on a dress because that's not me. Once they learned that I designed the dress, they were even more impressed. I don't think people thought I had that in me.

On living in Minneapolis

It is the first time I've been away from [Baton Rouge]. Minneapolis reminds me a lot of home. It's laid back. It's not a very busy city. Everyone has shown me great hospitality. The only thing they don't have is good Sunday cooking -- crawfish and stuff like that.

On being recognized in Minnesota

I'm recognized a little, but it's not stalker-type. People are not following me around the mall here. I had a few people come up and say, "You're Augustus," but it's not a lot, which is good because I can walk through a mall and shop. I haven't been able to walk through a mall in Baton Rouge since I was 11.

On being recognized by stars

At the ESPYs last year I met Carmelo Anthony, Amaré Stoudemire and T.O. I didn't figure they watched women's basketball. Dwight Howard walked up and was like, "You're Seimone Augustus." I said, "Yes, I am. And you're Dwight Howard." It was amazing.

On maturing from a shy freshman at LSU to a talkative WNBA player

I give thanks to the media. I had to open up. The media started to change their questions so I wouldn't have just yes or no answers. That helped me come out of my shell. Before I was like, "Yes. No. Maybe." But the [interviews] made me feel comfortable talking to people and to not be afraid to say what I need to say.    

THE 6-FOOT AUGUSTUS, 22, SCORED 16 POINTS IN LAST WEEK'S WNBA ALL-STAR GAME.

Issue date: July 24, 2006

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