Gopher Basketball
NB: Do you have any nicknames (particularly for people who have troubles pronouncing your name)?
JAS: “œNot really”¦Abu”
NB: You were at Mr. Basketball finalist, and a highly recruited player ““ why did you decide to walk-on at the U?
JAS: “œI came to the U because I’ve always been a huge Gopher fan and have always wanted to play at the Barn. I felt I could compete at the Division one level. Coach Monson gave me a chance to walk-on and I felt I would give it a shot. Basically, I’ve always just wanted to play for the Gophers.”
NB: Do you have any pre/post game rituals?
JAS: “œI’m not sure if I’ll keep this up in college, but last year I always had Subway before each game. My favorite sub is the Chicken Teriyaki. Post-game, I don’t have a ritual.
NB: What do you plan to major in?
JAS: “œI plan on majoring in business or marketing. Eventually, I would like to work with sports, especially basketball. Maybe coach.”
NB: What would people be most surprised to know about you?
JAS: “œI’m half Arabic/Palestinian. That’s where I get the Abu-Shamala.”
NB: Which Big 10 arena are you most looking forward to playing at (the Barn being excluded from that list)?
JAS: “œI’m excited to play at Wisconsin, because I heard they have a good atmosphere. Almost as good as the Barns.”
NB: Who is your favorite basketball player?
JAS: “œMichael Jordan, hands down.”
NB: Who has been the biggest influence in your life?
JAS: “œMy mentor/big brother, Mark Stensrude.”
NB: What’s your favorite food?
JAS: “œChinese food”¦I like the garlic chicken.”
NB: Have you noticed that you are the new favorite of the Barnyard? How does that make you feel?
JAS: “œMakes me feel good. It’s awesome to play in front of your fellow student and hear them chant your name. The fans are just so supportive”¦it’s an awesome feeling.”
Talk about Jamal Abu-Shamala on the Gopher Basketball message board.