Jarvis Varnado played basketball at MSU from 2006-2010. He holds the SEC record for blocks in a season with 170 and career blocks with 413, passing Shaquille O’Neal. He was named SEC Defensive Player of the Year three consecutive seasons.
Varnado was drafted by the Miami Heat in the 2010 NBA draft but went to play basketball overseas in the Italian league and the Israeli Basketball Super League.
After a stint in the NBA D-League, he signed with the Boston Celtics for 10 days, and then Jan. 30 he signed with the Heat through the remainder of the season.
Varnado answered these questions for The Reflector via email.
 
Q:What was your thought process when you did not immediately make it in the NBA?
A:After I was drafted by the Miami Heat and sent overseas, I was very frustrated because I wanted to play in the NBA, but I took it as an opportunity to get better.
 
Q: What was your experience like playing basketball overseas? Were there any major differences or was it pretty much the same as playing here?
A:It was very different. The style of play varies in different countries, but certain calls like a travel may not get called, and the fouls there are not like they are here in college or the NBA.
 
Q:During your 10-day contract with the Heat, what did you do to impress them and make them realize they needed to sign you for the whole season?
A: I had a lot of good practices and showed them that I belong in the NBA and can make a difference on this team, especially on the defensive end with my shot-blocking and rebound ability.
 
Q:Most people can only dream about playing for the NBA Champions, but this dream has become a reality for you. Is it intimidating, exciting or what are your thoughts about signing with such a great team as the Heat?
A:It is pretty exciting not just being on the Miami Heat but just being in the NBA. It’s a dream come true.
 
Q:How has it been playing with Lebron James, Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh so far?
A: Those guys are pretty talented, and I learn a lot from them every day on and off the floor.
 
Q: Any insight you can give as to behind the scenes stuff with the Heat? Have you become good friends with any of the players in particular, is it a tight-knit team, did it meet your expectations, etc.?
A:I have become pretty cool with Udonis Haslem and Dexter Pittman, but I get along with everyone on the team. The guys are pretty cool.
 
Q:Do you feel like the Heat will win back-to-back NBA titles, and if so, what do you bring to the team to help in this endeavor?
A: There is tough competition for the championship this year, but I definitely feel as though we have a good chance to win it. I bring shot blocking and rebounding to the team. We have a lot of offensive weapons, but I can definitely also help out on both ends of the floor.
 
Q: What did you learn from your time at MSU that you have used thus far in the NBA?
A: The value of hard work.
 
Q: What would be your advice to the current MSU basketball team as it struggles with youth and lack of depth and adjusting to a new coach?
A: They have to keep fighting to get better and take it game by game and focus on getting better on the areas they are having the most problems. They also have to look at the SEC tournament as another season. Anything can happen there.
 
Q: What would be your advice to the MSU fans who may become impatient with the lack of wins this year?
A:You guys have to hang in there. You have no clue how hard it can be to rebuild, especially in such a tough conference as the SEC. You guys have to keep showing up and cheering your team on. Show that Maroon pride. Those guys feed off of the fans energy, so it’s important for the fans to show up cheering no matter if the team is winning or not. Let them know that you have their backs. It could help spark a comeback if they are down.
 
Q:Is there anything else you want to add?
A: Thanks so much to the Maroon nation for your continued support!