Sept. 28, 2000

By Harry Wallaesa III & Matt Hahn
Former Terp Matt Hahn currently writes for HoopsTV.com

Change is the theme for the upcoming NCAA college basketball season. The General got the pink slip, a game of musical chairs was played by schools and coaches for the entire summer, and a new crop of freshmen phenoms are ready to take over. A group of guys that went largely unnoticed, but are sure to make a huge impact this year, are transfer players. HoopsTV.com spoke to Maryland's Byron Mouton about his experience leaving Tulane for the Terrapins. Byron is a 6-6 junior who had to sit out the entire 1999-00 season under NCAA rules. The smooth scorer can't wait to suit up for one of the top programs in the country.

HTV: Why did you decide to transfer?

BM: There were just too many distractions in New Orleans. I'm from Louisiana and I had a lot of people around who wanted all of my time. I was one of the best players and I got a lot of attention. It was just hard to focus on basketball and that's what I wanted to do. I didn't think Tulane was too organized. There wasn't as much structure. No one really controlled the media. I wanted to go to a place where the main emphasis was on ball.

HTV: How difficult was it to sit out for an entire season?

BM: It was one of the hardest things I've had to go through. I mean when you've been playing since you were a little kid, for almost 20 years and to just not play competitive games is hard. You practice so you can play! I think I was lucky because at Maryland I had great teammates who forced me to practice like I was going to play in the games. I think I improved, but practice still isn't the same as playing. I can't wait to play again.

HTV: Explain the process of transferring.

BM: The hardest thing is getting your release. I was lucky. I always respected the coach and people at Tulane, so they didn't give me too much trouble, but if you embarass the school or argue with a coach they won't give it too you, and you have no choice except to be miserable.

After you get released it's like high school again. They recruit like they did when you were coming out as a junior or senior. I thought about Kentucky because they liked me out of high school, but in the end I thought Maryland was the best fit.

HTV: What does Maryland have that Tulane didn't?

BM: Exposure. The ACC is a great conference and if you play well you get a lot of attention from the media, but the media isn't as much of a distraction here because they have people who help you control it. Also, Maryland is serious about basketball and they go to the tournament every year. Maryland has great players and we press and run. It's the type of game I like to play.

HTV: Are you happy with your decision?

BM: Extremely! I've met a lot of great new friends and the basketball atmosphere is awesome. I've also gotten a chance to see a whole different part of the country. Maryland and the east coast is a lot different than Louisiana. My teammates helped me adjust and so far I've had a great time. I think it will be even better once I start ballin'.