Nick Martineau on Basketball

Where would you be without basketball?

I think I’d be playing football. I was always a big football player in high school as well as basketball but basketball was my first love. If it weren’t for basketball I’d definitely be playing football somewhere.

Why basketball?

I just love the sport and I love playing. As much as we do, being able to practice and shoot by myself. I grew up playing in my church gym everyday, just going there to shoot. It was my favorite thing to do and when it came down to it I just knew that I loved basketball.

Why do you love basketball?

It’s just one of those things that you love. You get to play and you’re free on the court. There are no worries. You can just play and enjoy your time.

Best family basketball memory?

I grew up watching my older brother Chad play. He was the other basketball player in the family. Even when I was a baby he used to give me little basketballs and my first word was ball. Since then it’s been my favorite.

What is your favorite sound in basketball?

I like the sound of the ball right before it goes in the net. It’s not the swoosh when it goes in but right before. It’s probably not even a sound. It probably doesn’t even make a sound but in my mind it does. When you shoot it, there are times that you know that it’s in.

Any advice for young players?

To grow a few inches. That might help. It’s something I kind of lacked in. To take care of themselves and to eat right and to play as much as they can. Even if it’s just pick up games or shooting around, just play, play, play. And be competitive when they play; try and win every time.