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The Celtics' Rajon Rondo shoots over the the Mavericks' Jason Kidd.

Anne Stein

Rajon Rondo

Guard, Boston Celtics

Age: 22

It’s one of the greatest jobs a 22-year-old could have: In just his second NBA season, Rajon (Rah-jahn) Rondo is a playoff-bound starter who shares the floor with All-Stars Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and Paul Pierce. The Louisville native, who was chosen 21^st overall in the 2006 NBA draft, also leads his team in assists.

What’s been the favorite moment of your career so far? Well, in high school there was winning the city championship in Louisville, Kentucky, and winning the national championship at Oak Hill Academy. I also had a great career at the University of Kentucky [he left after his sophomore year], and then playing for the USA 21-and-under team in summer 2005.

What have been the toughest moments of your career? I don’t have too many rough moments. I’ve always had great coaches who were hard on me. It’s just about learning the game and learning how to be a coachable player.

What’s it like playing with Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen and Paul Pierce? It’s been a fun experience and they make the game a lot easier. I don’t have to do as much and create shots for them because they can do that on their own. I just gotta keep an open mind and keep listening to them because they’re veteran guys and they know a lot.

With a combined 34 pro seasons under their belts, what in particular have you learned from them? To have a great focus each night, whether you’re playing Detroit or the worst team in the league. You have to go out and respect everyone in this league. It shouldn’t be hard for me, but I guess it’s one of my weaknesses. I’m just trying to get a certain routine and stay focused every night.

If you weren’t playing basketball what would you be doing instead? I’d probably be trying to play pro football, because that’s what I did my entire life growing up. I didn’t start playing basketball until eighth grade. I quit football my freshman year in high school – I was quarterback. I’d been playing football since I was six. I’m here now so I guess I made the right decision.

What’s your favorite movie? “Love and Basketball.”

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