Jamont Gordon is a former Mississippi State standout with hopes of making the big show in the NBA. He is currently playing in Croatia in order to improve his game and show his worth on the court. We are excited to share with you an exclusive Q&A with Jamont!

NBAtoday: What was your experience like playing for Mississippi State from 2005-2008 and putting them back on the basketball map?

Jamont Gordon: It was fun. I enjoyed my time at Miss St.; we had our ups and downs, but the good definitely outweighed the bad. I am thankful for the coaches, players, and fans who helped me during the time I was there.

NBAtoday: Earlier this year we interviewed Shan Foster of Vanderbilt. What was going through your head in that game when he dropped 44 and they pulled off the upset victory?

JG: I was thinking, “This can’t be for real!” We had held him in check pretty much the whole game and all of a sudden he just started draining 3′s like crazy. Once a player gets in a zone like that there’s nothing you can do but just get a hand up and pray that he misses!

NBAtoday: After leaving after your junior year, what were you told your draft status would be like?  What was your reaction like when you found out you weren’t drafted?

JG: I was told I would be a late first round selection or probably early second round. I really thought I would get drafted and that my chances were good. When I saw guys like Mario Chalmers and Chris Douglas-Roberts go in the second round, then I knew it could be a long night for me. When the 40th and 41st pick came up with New Jersey and Indiana and I didn’t hear my name called, I knew it wasn’t my night. I was very disappointed. It hurt, it hurt a lot; but everything happens for a reason. I just knew I had to leave it in God’s hands and continue to work harder.

NBAtoday: Do you regret not leaving for the NBA after your sophomore season?

JG: I don’t regret any decisions I have made. You can’t live in the past; you have to focus on the present and the future. God has a plan for me and I’m just ready to improve myself and keep working hard so I can reach my goals.

NBAtoday: You are now playing in Croatia, what’s the experience like? Do you enjoy living in Europe?

JG: My experience in Croatia has been good overall and the team is playing pretty well. Europe has been good! I definitely love the travel and I get to see different countries and cities! My family isn’t with me but I have had a couple of friends to come and visit me here.

NBAtoday: You started your Euro career in Italy; what made you sign with KK Cibona VIP Zagreb instead?

JG: I was looking for a fresh start and also having a chance to compete in the Euroleague against better competition. I felt Cibona was the better fit for me than Zagreb and it also came down to a numbers game with the contract. Being with Cibona just felt like a more comfortable fit for me.

NBAtoday: What are some personal goals for this season? What are some team goals?

JG: Well my team is first. We want to win our division and go to the tournament and try to bring home a championship. My personal goals for the season are to improve my shooting, ball handling, and decision making. I feel like if I can improve on those things it will benefit me, as well as my team.

NBAtoday: What’s the most challenging thing for you being in Europe?

JG: Being away from family and friends and also the time difference!

NBAtoday: Is it still a goal of yours to make it to the NBA someday or just become a great European player (nothing wrong with that!)?

JG: Of course my dream is to play in the NBA. I would love to compete with the players in the NBA because I feel like I can hold my own against them.

NBAtoday: What do you feel your best basketball asset is?

JG: I’d have to go with my size and strength.

NBAtoday: How has your work ethic changed from college to pro?

JG: I work a lot harder over here because the competition is so good. We practice twice a day, so you have to be on point and stay sharp. I focus a lot more on what I eat and I take care of my body by lifting weights and doing more stretching. Learning from the veterans in Europe has helped my game tremendously.

NBAtoday: If you had a chance to sign a European contract for $5 million and be the go-to-guy on your team or sign a $500,000 contract in the NBA and be a bench player what would you do?

JG: That’s a tough one. I want to do what’s best for my family. Honestly, I really don’t know. I guess it would depend on the NBA team and if I was going to have a chance to play for a championship team! But being home with my daughter and family is priceless so I would probably take the money and sign with the NBA team!

NBAtoday: We found you on Twitter in order to conduct this interview. How has twitter played a role for you in reconnecting with fans?

JG: I love the fans. I want to thank them for all the love and support they have shown me over the years. I just ask that they keep supporting me and keep me in their prayers.

The NBAtoday staff would like to thank Jamont Gordon for his time and enthusiasm for this interview. Jamont’s focus and determination to make the NBA is truly inspiring and we are optimistic that his hard work will ultimately pay off. Good luck in achieving your goals Jamont!