David West (Photo: NBAE/Getty Images by Bill Baptiste)

David West is one of those guys whose game speaks volumes about his personality. Whether his 20 and 10 (technically 19.8 points and 9.2 boards per) comes from mid-range jumpers or battling under the boards with bigger centers and power forwards who trump his 6-9, 240-pound frame, it always seems easy, straight-forward and simple. The 5th-year pro is making his All-Star Gamer debut and has been an invaluable member of the 36-15 Hornets, who hold the best record in the West. I got up with West this afternoon at the re-opening of the court at Laurel Elementary.

DIME: How does the first-time All-Star selection feel?
WEST: It’s always good to be recognized for what you do as a professional, especially after putting in a lot of hard work. I see it as actually being recognized for understanding that there’s a lot more to go, a lot more room to grow.

DIME: You’re focused on moving forward? Can’t you enjoy being in first place?
WEST: We just try to remain focused. We try to keep our grind, in terms of wanting to get better. We’re trying to do everything in our power to improve our chances later on in the season. I’m obviously thrilled that we are where we are, not so much surprised. We’ve got a good group of guys who trust one another, enjoy playing with one another. And it carries over to our play. We’re out there playing for one another. We don’t have any “I” guys – we don’t have “I” guys, guys who are selfish caught up with what they’re trying to do as opposed to what we’re trying to accomplish as a team.

DIME: Is that mentality rooted in the city that you play in?
WEST: Oh, yeah… as a team that’s one of the things that we pride ourselves on: being out here, being accessible to the young kids, man, ’cause you never know what you can say or what your presence might do to alter some kids young lives.

DIME: Honestly, that must translate to the court…
WEST: We know it’s not all about us. We want to play for each other – play hard for each other. That’s why it’s working out.

DIME: How have you managed to maintain such a humble, grounded attitude?
WEST: My dad was a good example for me growing up. Just very quiet, reserved. But it’s really just who I am. It’s not always about you, it can’t always be about you. You gotta have trust in people. And you gotta be aware of what’s going on around you. You have to decide to be strong in who you are.

DIME: Is that the message that you were trying to impart to the kids?
WEST: It’s a matter of taking responsibility. Other people can’t want it for you as bad as you want it yourself. You gotta be ready to step up and take control. Any opportunity you get to come out here, talk and experience some stuff with the kids is always a good thing.