Allderdice basketball has a strong tradition, and Anthony Abrahams is looking to help carry it forward. With a veteran group returning and another season ahead, Abrahams has high expectations for the Dragons. I caught up with him for a quick Q&A about the upcoming season, his basketball influences, toughest moments on the court and how he hopes to be remembered when his playing days are over.
Q: How will they be this upcoming season?
A: We will be tough. With myself, Keith Taylor and four or five other returning seniors, we have a solid core that can get up and down the floor. We also have a very solid sophomore class that will contribute as well.
Q: Who’s your favorite NBA player right now?
A: Leek.
Q: Who you got: Jordan or LeBron?
A: Mike.
Q: Who are your top five NBA players of all time?
A: Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Shaquille O’Neal.
Q: Do you enjoy AAU games or high school games more?
A: High school games because of the atmosphere.
Q: Who is your favorite college basketball team?
A: Pitt.
Q: What’s your favorite shoe to hoop in?
A: Kobe 5s.
Q: What’s your go-to pregame song?
A: “Love Sosa” by Chief Keef.
Q: What’s one basketball drill you absolutely hate?
A: Suicides, most definitely.
Q: What gym has the toughest atmosphere you’ve ever played in?
A: I’d say the toughest atmosphere I’ve experienced was actually at home against Central Catholic.
Q: Who’s the toughest player you’ve ever had to guard?
A: I can’t have anyone one-up me, so I can’t disclose that information.
Q: What’s more disrespectful: getting dunked on, getting your ankles taken, or somebody hitting a game-winner in your face?
A: I’d say getting dunked on is pretty disrespectful, but getting your ankles taken is worse.
Q: Be honest: would you rather score 40 in a loss or score 10 and hit the game-winner in a win?
A: Give me 10 with the game-winner, although 40 is different.
Q: Twenty years from now, what do you want people to remember about you as a basketball player?
A: I want to be known as someone who was a hard worker, stayed in the gym and earned every minute on the floor. I want to become one of the most complete players to ever come out of the city.