The Basketball Interview with Austin Ash
One of the state’s best shooters, 2017 Mount Vernon guard Austin Ash has been torching opponents with the Mustangs and the Iowa Barnstormers for years now. The 27th ranked player in the Class of 2017, Ash has accepted a preferred walk-on spot with the University of Iowa. This is “The Basketball Interview with Austin Ash”.
Q: What is your favorite part of game day at Mount Vernon?
Hanging out with all the guys before the game, either playing cards or video games at someone’s house after school.
Q: Who is the most difficult player to defend in the state?
The most difficult player to guard in the state would have to be Connor McCaffery. He’s very long and has a tight handle. If you apply pressure he will go right around you and is so strong that he can finish through contact, and you can’t give him too much room because he will drill one right in your face.
Q: Other than Mount Vernon, which gym is your favorite to play in and why?
Spiece Field House (Fort Wayne, IN) would have to be my favorite. It’s a very cool place to play with all the courts they have. It was always my favorite tournament to play in.
Q: If you had complete control over the schedule and could put anyone in the state on it, who would you want to play?
Waverly-Shell Rock, who we actually do play this year. I have always been great friends and teammates with Austin Phyfe, so it will be fun competing against him for once.
Q: Who is your favorite basketball player of all-time? Do you model your game after them or any other players?
Kobe Bryant has always been my favorite player since I was a little kid. I’ve been to a couple of his games and even have his autograph. I wouldn’t say I model my game after him, but I try to match his determination and will to win.
Q: What is the best piece of coaching advice you’ve ever received?
Play every play like it is your last because you never know when it all will be over.