[VIDEO] Q&A: Anali Okoloji

Video by Marcus Miller 

Anali Okoloji

Height: 6’8”

Number: 14

Year: Redshirt Junior

Major: Sports Management

Position: Forward

Hometown: Brooklyn, NY

High school: Impact Academy

Other college: Seton Hall

Q: How did you get into basketball?

A: I used it as a way to lose weight. I was overweight when I was younger, and then I lost weight, then I hit a growth spurt. So, I kind of used it as a way to get fit.

Q: Who is your mentor?

A: It was a lot of people from the neighborhood just growing up, just hearing their experiences guided me to make the right decisions.

Q: And how have they influenced you on and off the court, and throughout your journey as a college basketball player?

A: I would say the YMCA where I’m from back home. Coming from Brooklyn it’s tough because a lot of kids can either go one way, they can either be on the streets or they can either be chasing education or sports. I feel like the younger kids in the YMCA and the kids that I mentor make me motivated to do what I’m doing. I think about them from time to time. It’s tough to wake up at 6 a.m. to practice everyday, so there’s a dedication. And, I know they look up to me and say, “Anali, he’s in college, he’s an example of someone that can make it this far.” So, I’m thankful for that.

Q: Where do you draw your inspiration?

A: A lot of different places. Being that my mom is a single mom and she had to provide for my brother and me. That’s a lot of inspiration because there were times when it was tough to even eat and get a meal on the table. So, I know she tried her best to provide for my brother and me. So, I just push myself. Whenever I want to give up, I just say, you know where you came from and you know what you have to do. And I just keep going.  

Q: How do you feel the team played last season?

A: It was up and down. A lot of the time we were trying to get on the same page as each other. I think that most of us are veterans and we’re more of a team this year. Our chemistry is meshing together, so we should be good this year.

Q: Talk about the relationship with your teammates and how does that play a role in the success of the team?

A: It plays a major role. I think us bonding and being brothers is one of the biggest parts because then we know each other on the court and we can pass and make better decisions. It helps the chemistry a lot. Just going to little events outside of basketball is important. Last year I didn’t really do that as much, and this year I’ve made the effort to really get to know my teammates and who they are.