One of the new members of the University of South Alabama basketball team, Freddie Goldstein’s path to Mobile started in Wisconsin and went through two more states before landing in the Port City. Goldstein spoke with USAJaguars.com before one of the team’s summer workouts.
When did you start playing basketball?
I started playing basketball when I was five years old. My mom put the ball in the crib, that whole story. She took me to all of the camps and I’ve been playing ever since.
Tell me about your journey to get to South Alabama
After high school I sat out three years and moved from Milwaukee to St. Augustine. After three years I realized I had to do something productive with my life. I ended up going to Motlow State for junior college. Going there was great exposure for me—I became a two-time All-American—and the education was great. I loved the faculty. That led to an opportunity to play here at South Alabama which made everything better. It’s a blessing to be here. I’m happy.
Why did you choose South Alabama?
On my visit they told me about the education part of it and how the teachers would be helpful and would allow me to further myself. The facilities were good and I want to play overseas. I talked to people and they said I can get there from South Alabama. The coaching staff was the biggest part of my decision.
What do you try to accomplish during the offseason workouts?
To get stronger, become more focused as a player, work on my balance and try to get bigger. I need to get bigger to make up for my height. (laughs)
What is your mindset during the offseason workouts?
I’m trying to make myself better as an individual. When I come to workouts, I’m looking at the team and saying ‘I can’t let the team down this year.’ I have to work hard and get stronger.
How do the workouts and pick-up games help the team bond?
It’s a lot of competition. Some people get frustrated because it’s so physical when we play, but we’re all on the same team. We can’t hurt each other so it builds a family relationship.
When people watch you play, what kind of player do they see?
They’ll see a hard worker. Even though I’m only 5-9, I make up for it with toughness and heart. I don’t give up until the game is over. I won’t stop. I’m an all-around player. They’re going to have a show when they see me. They’ll be like, ‘He’s something different.’
What do you consider to be the strongest part of your game?
My shooting and dribbling. My defense is pretty good too. I don’t give up and won’t let anyone get to the basket. They’re going to make me foul out before they get 20 or 30 points on me.
What do you enjoy the most of the game of basketball?
The competition. You can meet new friends, you can meet new enemies too (laughs). It’s all about the competition.
Other than basketball what are some of the things you’re into off the court?
I like music and video games a little bit. I’m more of a relaxed person. I like to watch movies and relax in my off time. When I get some free time I like to study too and get good grades. That’s what will help me out in the future.
What are your expectations of yourself this season?
To be one of the top defenders in the conference. As a team, to win the Sun Belt and help take the team to the Tournament.
Quick hits:
Favorite NBA team: Chicago Bulls
Favorite college team growing up: Marquette
Favorite sport other than basketball: College football
Favorite musical artist: Wiz Khalifa
Favorite class: Physical education
Favorite movie: Love and Basketball
For more information about South Alabama athletics, check back with www.usajaguars.com. Season tickets for all Jaguar athletic events can be purchased by calling (251) 461-1USA (1872).
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