This is Our Game: Lindsay Whalen

Sun guard Lindsay Whalen Nathaniel S. Butler /NBAE/Getty Images

As one of the rising stars in the WNBA, Sun guard Lindsay Whalen is one of the fiercist competitors on the court, playing with a fearlessness and intensity that won her a large and loyal group of fans back in college and continuing today. In two seasons, she has played in glaring spotlight of two WNBA Finals and has already put together an impressive highlight reel of dazzling, acrobatic and clutch plays. But off the court, few people know just how laid back and funny she is. So what is the secret to her success and what makes this prime candidate for a spot on the 2008 U.S. Olympic Team tick?

Q. What is your motivation when don't feel like working out, running that extra mile, or waking up early?
"Just thinking about being in good shape and not being so tired during training camp. During the season, there are games that I like to be ready for and thinking about things that you could have done differently either the game before or even the season before."

Q. Was there a time in your life of playing basketball when you thought about giving up the game?
"I never really thought about that. I just like to play and love the game of basketball so that in and of itself kept me going and kept me excited about it."

Q. How important is a healthy diet and good nutrition for your overall success? What are some snacks you like or favorite meals?
"You know, I don't think I appreciated it as much when I was younger, but now I realize how important it is to take care of your body. That said, I still love my McDonald's."

Q. What else drives you? What other goals you've set for yourselves off the court or are you currently pursuing?
"I really like to golf. My handicap is in the mid-teens. I can't really try and judge, but I shoot in the mid-80's. I also really like going up to my cabin in Minnesota on a lake. It's great just to be up there and hang out. I am not really into fishing or anything like that. And I love going out to eat."