Tell us, what did you know about Wollongong before you arrived?

It’s my first time in Australia – I knew nothing before coming. It’s weird being on the opposite side of the world, but there are lots of things on my checklist.

You’ve just arrived off the back of a championship with Puerto Rican team Vaqueros. How do you step into this new team environment and build a rapport?

That’s what practice does. It’s like going to war. You get to training every day with these guys. You get to build that rapport, see how you play, see everybody’s demeanor. We need to see how they play and how we all can be puzzle pieces to this giant puzzle, and hopefully it all comes together in the championships. 

How did you adapt to the Puerto Rican style of play, and what do you know about the playing style in Australia?

It was definitely an adjustment in playing style because they have different rules and certain things you can and can’t do. For example the NBL doesn’t have the defensive three second violation rule like they do in the NBA, where you’ve got to get out of the key, so it’s easier for guys to get the shot clock. Knock the ball off the rim rule is beautiful for me as a Center player. It’s just a couple of rules that are great for me and add to my game.

Your extensive playing history writes its own story. But what advice are you hoping to share with younger players?

That’s for the younger players on the side to tell the truth. I don’t exactly know what I have that guys might need, but I have a lot for sure. 

This will be my seventeenth year playing professional basketball. So I’m sure, “how are you still passionate about playing?” Other teams I’ve played for, the guys have come to me and asked “what do you do for recovery?”, “do you ever get tired of this?” or “how are you still playing?” 

I know it’s some guys third year and fourth year in, so there’s a lot of advice I can give to young guys.

After 17 seasons, how do you stay mentally fit and at the top of your game? 

One thing I realised is my energy is expensive and I don’t let a lot of people in my circle or use my energy. I tend to keep my family close, keep my friends close, and I don’t get too much or try to overwork myself on trying to please or hang around this crowd or whatever. 

I do what I want, when I want and keep myself happy. That’s how I stay healthy, keep my mind healthy and stay focused on the basketball.