"Things didn't work out the way I wanted last year," he said. "But I worked on my game every day to improve my chances of making it this time. I feel like I'm knocking at the door of the NBA. I just need somebody to let me in."

English was one of the final cuts of the Indiana Pacers last season, released three days before the start of the season.

He spent the year as a reserve guard for the Charleston Lowgators in the National Basketball Development League.

"I hope to God I never have to go back there to play," he said. "It was every man for himself."

English, a 6-foot-5 shooting guard, averaged 8.4 points and 2.0 rebounds in 19.1 minutes per game, and led the team with 50 3-pointers.

Shortly after the season, English hired a new agent — Los Angeles-based Michael Harrison. He also spent many of his summer hours in the weight room, and said he gained around 10 pounds, up to 208.

"Because I came so close (to the NBA) last year, I wanted another chance," English said.

English wants it so bad that he is participating in camp with torn cartilage in his left ribs. He sustained the injury during a pick-up game last week.

"The doctor told me to sit out for four to six weeks," he said. "But if I'm going to make the team, I have to prove I can play through things like this."

Injured or not, he is considered a long shot. According to a Seattle newspaper, English is one of six players battling for one roster spot.

Regardless of what happens, English said he will never regret his decision to leave UH after his junior season. He was not selected in the two rounds of the 2003 NBA Draft, and signed with Indiana as a free agent.

"I did what I thought was right for me at the time, and I will always stand by that," said English, 23. "A lot of people bring up what ifs, but I don't. I'm a better player and better person because of what I went through."