Southern Illinoise University Athletics
Q & A With Senior Guard Leonard Hughes
02/17/2004 | 12:00:00 | Men's Basketball
Feb. 17, 2004
By Dave Siegal
www.SIUSalukis.com
What was it like walking on to the team last year, and what motivated you to
join the team?
I play hard and give it
my all, so walking on last year meant a lot to me. Especially going as
far as we did, winning a ring. I always dreamed about that. This year, our
team is doing big things. Right now, we're 20-2, 14-0 in the conference. It
looks like we're gonna get another ring to show off.
What have you learned since joining the team?
I've learned to keep my composure. They play hard, day-in and day-out, so that
motivates me to give it my all during practice and help them out and do what I
can.
When you do get playing time, such as in the Drake game last Wednesday, what goes through your mind when you're on the court?
I just have to prove to Coach Painter that I should be out there, too. I
just go out there, do what I can and let the crowd cheer me too, keep the crowd
going and not let them get bored.
What have you enjoyed most during your two years as a Saluki?
Just the support that the fans give to the players. They come out every game
and cheer, even though we might not be scoring a lot of points, they still try
to edge us on and give us the edge we need to pull us through. You see how the
record is, we've lost only one home game in three years, and that means a lot.
So does getting some rings and winning.
Since the Salukis have been ranked in the Top-25, have you guys been treated with celebrity status?
Oh yeah. Everybody wants tickets to the games. Everyone wants to know what's
inside the Dawghouse now, but it's top secret. Can't tell them. A lot of
people come up to you though.
What was it like playing with Darius Miles and Bradley guard Phillip Gilbert at East St. Louis High?
That was great. They were my friends. I already knew Darius was going to the
NBA. It made my job real easy. I scored a lot because the pressure was on
them.
What is it like having many of your teammates from the metro St. Louis area?
It makes me feel more comfortable because it's like playing at home in the
backyard with a lot of people from the same area. Bryan (Turner), Darren (Brooks) and Stetson (Hairston). I played against Stetson in the same conference, with Darren and Bryan at AAU. It feels like home to me.
What's something about you that people wouldn't assume?
People always think I'm quiet, laid back, and stick to myself, but I like to
have fun.
What do you plan to do upon graduating?
Probably get a job in my major, community health, close to home, relax and play
ball, too.
