Q: What are your thoughts on the season so far?
A: The season is coming along very well. We are playing well together as a team and we are starting to have a lot of confidence in each other. It should be exciting to see where this team goes this season.
Q: You are the team’s second leading scorer, have you noticed any difference in your game that has helped you offensively?
A: Particularly, the rebounding both offensively and defensively. Getting those second chance opportunities really makes a difference in the game and that leads to scoring points.
Q: How did you develop a knack for shooting threes?
A: Countless hours in the gym. My dad played college basketball and he was a shooter himself, so I guess it just runs in the family.
Q: What was life like last year with you being a freshman on this team?
A: Freshman year for me was a little difficult. I tore my PCL and I really liked all the guys, but I never really got a knack of playing with any of them. This year has really changed and turned around.
Q: If you had the opportunity to play on any NBA floor, which one would that be and why?
A: Probably the United Center just because I am from Chicago and a lot of greats have played on that floor.
Q: You are a Biology major, what do you want to do with that?
A: I would like to go to graduate school for physical therapy and if all else fails, I will try athletic training.
Q: What are some of your goals in life?
A: To be successful really, in anything I do I have to give 100 percent.
Q: Who is someone that has been a big supporter of you?
A: My dad. For example, this year he tore his ACL and last year I tore my PCL. I have never seen him hurt or damaged at all and seeing him work through that has helped me in a long way.
Q: What are your expectations for the rest of this season?
A: Go to the National Championship as a lot of guys would say. Mainly we have to be successful, have to trust each other and play within ourselves in order to get to the national championships and into that championship game.
Q: If you ever need help or advice from someone, who can you sit down with for help?
A: Probably my grandparents. Regardless of the hour, day or month, I could always go to them whether I drive there or call. They will always enlighten me.
Q: If it was not for basketball, what would you be doing?
A: In high school, I played volleyball so there is a good chance I would be playing volleyball, but who knows where.
To view the video interview of this athlete spotlight along with other video interviews please visit sxucougars.com and click on the Cougar Close-Ups link.
Greg Pilafas
Deputy Editor in Chief