Interview with Fatai Hala'api'api

- September 20, 2005

POSTED BY: Eurobasket Center

Name, Height, Position and Age: Fatai Hala'api'api, 6'1, Center, 19 yrs old

What are your strengths and weaknesses in your game?

My strengths are blocking shots and posting up on the block. My weaknesses are ball handling and shooting the ball.

Why did you choose to go to EKU?

I chose to attend EKU because I wanted to experience a new atmosphere and people. The basketball program here is very good and they also treat each other like family.

Where there are other offers to play elsewhere?

I got a few offers from Junior Colleges and the University of Hawaii.

How would describe your colligate career so far?

My collegiate career has been very good because I broke the season shot block record (my freshman year).

You had a serious injury during your sophomore year, have you properly recovered from the injury?

Yes, I am fully recovered from that injury.

Do you think this has effected your development as a player?

Yes and No because it hasn't effected my ability to play. But it does effect me mentally because in the back of my mind I'll always think about it, so you kind of don't play hard (at first). When I get into the flow of things like 2 mins into the game I don't think about my injury anymore.

Has the injury you had, has it changed the intensity or effort you put into your physical conditioning?

Yes, because I haven't did any conditioning for about 9 months, so when I get tired I try to push harder but it seems like I go slower. But I am trying to get back into shape before the season starts so I'll be able to perform better.

How would describe Eastern Kentucky performance last year?

There's no words that can describe how great the girls performed last year. It's by the grace of God that we made it that far and we are so thankful. We had a great bond with each other, so that was also good.

How do you see EKU performing this year?

Is reaching the NCAA tournament a possibility? Our girls our ready to play and we do have a good team this year, too. The incoming freshmen are really going to play a big part in our team and mix that with our returning players we got a great squad. Yes, reaching the NCAA tournament is always a possibility, especially with the group that we have this year.

What kind of an impact you think you might have this upcoming season?

I think I'll have a big impact on this team because I can block shots and get som

Pacific Games 2023: Fiji remains undefeated with the win over Tonga