The Basketball Interview…Jael Vaughn (2019)
I had the chance to interview Jael Vaughn, one of the top point guards from the class of 2019 from the state of Utah. He is a player to watch next year as Herriman High School should be much more competitive then in recent years. Here is my interview.
What are some strengths you have in your game that make you the player that you are?
“I think my biggest strength as a basketball player is getting to the rim and finishing whether that be going around a bigger defender or going over a littler one, also think my passing and mid range game opens up a lot of lanes to the hoop.”
What are some of your weaknesses that you would like to work on?
“Some of my weaknesses I would like to work on this summer is becoming a more consistent shooter, and left hand finishing through contact and I feel that would help the team and make it easier for me.”
Herriman has been down for a few years now, do you think next year will be your teams break out season? Why?
“We will be for sure, and the reason I say that with confidence is because I feel that we have a complete team starting from our good bigs and we have strong guards versatile guards that can shot and get to the rim, which opens up passing for the bigs. It’s gonna be a fun year.”
Tell me what your goals are as a basketball player.
“My goal in general as basketball player is to reach the very top of my potential that’s why I’m in the gym a lot. I want to play D1 basketball and want to win a 6a state championship at Herriman.”
Why should a college coach offer you a scholarship? What separates you from other point guards?
“I feel that I have great work ethic, and can do a lot of the things on and off the court besides scoring to help the team win games. What separates me from other guards is that I think I am stronger and faster than most guards and that allows me to get shots off and getting to spots I need to be at.”
Who is the toughest player you can recall playing against in Utah High School basketball?
“Stockton Shorts, the reason I say that is because he is 6’4, quick, and strong, he gots a lot of tools. But there is still a lot I haven’t had the chance to guard yet but looking forward to it.”
What is your dream college that you would want to play for and why?
“I would say UCLA because I love the way they play, and also where they are located it’s just all perfect.”
Wh0 is your favorite NBA player and why?
“That’s a tough question but the first that come to mind are Chris Paul and Isaiah Thomas, The reason I say them is because I like the way Chris Paul can control the game by passing and his mid range game is something I like. Isaiah Thomas is that he is smaller than most NBA players but his strength makes up for that and helps him finish through bigger players.”
What is your favorite off the court activity and why?
“Watching ESPN highlights, Enjoy gym time, and eating food or hanging out with people depending on the mood.”