What were some of the goals you set for yourself this season?
I just wanted to be more of a presence in our inside game. We didn’t really have an inside game this year so I wanted to become a presence there, especially since our inside guys were going to be young. I wanted to give the team what I could.

Did you do anything different to prepare for this season as opposed to last season?
I got myself more in shape. Last season as a freshman I didn’t know what to expect. I kept myself in shape and did more workouts over the summer than I did my freshman year because I knew what was ahead of me.

What’s been the biggest difference between this season, your sophomore year, as opposed to last year, your freshman year?
The difference between the high school game and the college game is the college game is a lot faster and stronger. So I had to prepare myself mentally and physically for the games this year.

What are your career plans after you graduate?
I’m a biology major so I’d like to go to medical school and get my doctorate. I want to try and be a pediatrician and try to play basketball as long as possible.

Who has been the biggest influence on your playing career?
My dad and my brother. My brother is only 15 months older than me and I look up to him because he plays football at Air Force. I look up to him as a role model, on and off the court. My dad used to play basketball and he’s the biggest reason I play now.

What made you decide to come to South Alabama?
I didn’t really know what to expect, but I was looking for a fun university. My parents’ opinion really made a difference in where I chose to go. But there was a family feel here. I visited a lot of universities and it felt like a family here with the team and coaching staff. It felt like I fit in perfectly.

What would playing in the NCAA Tournament mean to you?
It would be a dream come true. I’ve always thought about it but didn’t give it serious thought because I didn’t think I’d be playing college basketball. Now that I have the opportunity, it’s a career goal of mine.

What is your favorite place to play on the road?
I liked playing at Western Kentucky. I liked the fanbase and the red everywhere—it seemed like they had a lot of school spirit for the team.

You are the team’s active leader in blocks – what goes into being a successful shot blocker?
Timing and court awareness. I study shot-blockers, seeing how they did it, watching film and learning timing. That’s the key.