R.C. Buford interview about the Austin Toros

[Bruno]

http://my.nba.com/cms/nba_d-league/p...e_austin_toros

[Blackjack]

You mentioned Ian Mahinmi, who spent almost all of 2007-08 in Austin and now has become a key player for the Spurs this season.

I'm not sure what all the fuss has been about in regards to Ian's minutes . . .

He's become a 'key player for the Spurs this season'.

[exstatic]

I'm not sure what all the fuss has been about in regards to Ian's minutes . . .

He's become a 'key player for the Spurs this season'.

Maybe he's entrusted with the key to the ball locker?

[Blackjack]

Good point. There could be a literal interpretation.

Maybe he opens up the practice facility, locker room or anything else that has a keyhole, and nothing gets done or opened until he shows up; that's definitely a 'key' member.