WNBA.com: This is Our Game: Cheryl Ford

Inside the minds of WNBA players

This is Our Game: Cheryl Ford

Detroit's Cheryl Ford
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Detroit Shock forward Cheryl Ford was the 2003 WNBA Rookie of the Year and a WNBA champion in that first season, but she refuses to let up. A rebounding force and a physical presence in the paint like her father before her, Ford is growing up before our eyes. She is no longer the shy, quiet backround player in Detroit, but wears her emotion on her sleeve. So what makes this nightly double-double threat tick? What drives her or inspires her when she needs that extra motivation?

Q. What is your motivation when don't feel like working out, running that extra mile, or waking up early?
"Just knowing that if I go into the season or training camp, it puts me a step behind everyone else, the rest of the players who are in shape. Also, your job is on the line. This is what I get paid for, so why not come in and stay in the best shape I can be in."

Q. Was there a time in your life when you thought about giving up the game?
"This past June, when my grandfather passed away, there was a tough period that took a lot out of me. I thought about a lot of things, but my grandmother told me that he would not have wanted me to quit, but I definitely wanted to give up basketball at this point. And now I play for him."

Q. What are some other goals you've set for yourselves off the court that you are interested in or pursuing?
"I really enjoy shopping and do that every day. But I also appreciate the opportunity to spend time with and enjoy my family. Summertime used to be about spending time with my dad, but now that I am playing, I have to see him whenever I can. Now that he is retired, hopefully I can see a lot more of him. "