The Basketball Interview…Bassel Tekarli
Photo Credit: Deseret News
Bassel Tekarli is the starting point guard for Hillcrest High School. The junior guard is trying to build on a sophomore campaign where he averaged 11 point per game and was an all-region 6 selection. Tekarli is a confident guard that believes he has what it takes to compete with best guards in 4A. Here is the interview I had with Bassel Tekarli.
What are some strengths you have in your game that make you the player you are?
“I’m good on attacking the rim and finishing on bigger players. I’ve also improved my mid-range game and shooting from deep. I feel like i’m ready to the next level this year.”
What makes your crowd unique? What is a memorable game or play that you have been involved in on your home court?
“Our crowd is very passionate and travels well to road games which makes it fun. Last year we beat one of the best teams in the state in Kearns high school. Our home crowd was a huge reason why we won.”
Who is the toughest player you can recall playing against in Utah basketball and why?
“The best player i’ve played against is current Baylor University guard Jake Lindsey. He was a great player and as a freshman I was amazed at how good he was.”
Who is your favorite basketball player in the NBA right now and why?
“My favorite player in the NBA is DeMar DeRozan. I like how he can score the ball without shooting threes. He’s a player I try to model my game after.”
What team that isn’t on your schedule in Utah would you most like to play and why?
“I have wanted to play Brighton since I was in high school, I know many kids that play for them and their school is just down the road from Hillcrest. I have been trying to get my coach to schedule them.”
How confident to do you feel about winning a tough region 6?
“I’m very confident because we have four returning starters. I have been playing with my guys for three years now and I think this is our year to show the state how good of a team we are. I think we can compete with Olympus for the region title.”
Who is your basketball influence?
“My basketball influence is my current coach, Sam Richins. He has shown me how hard I need to work to become a great player. Coach Richins is a great example on and off the court and I couldn’t have asked for a better coach.”
What can you bring to any college program that might recruit you?
“First, I’m a great student-athlete and take school very seriously. I have gotten a 4.0 every quarter of my high school career. On the court, I can score the basketball without forcing shots. Also, I’m a team-first guy and my only goal is to help my team win.”