Thanks to UC Santa Barbara's senior center, Alan Williams, for taking the time to sit down with us and discuss what makes him the No. 2 leading rebounder in the nation. Averaging 12.1 RPB, Williams shares his secrets:
Big Al's Keys To Rebounding
1. Be more physical than your opponent
2. Box out
3. Heart
"It's about heart. It's about you wanting to get the rebound more than the other person."
Q & A with the 2013-14 Big West Player of the Year
On senior season so far:
“Senior season has been a of fun, there have been ups and downs. I’m really excited to be able to come out for my senior year and play at all of the Big West places that I’ve grown in, for the last time. That’s what’s really special about this senior year, being able to play against all of the coaches we’ve played against and in all of the arenas you’ve played in and against the competition – seeing how everyone’s grown and improved, along with yourself.”
On a memorable moment this season:
“I had a chance to play in {Allen] Fieldhouse in Kansas, which is an amazing arena to play in. We got the opportunity to play in the Great Alaska Shootout. Being able to see my teammates grow from last year to this year is really inspiring, and a lot of fun.”
On playing rival Cal Poly in the Big West Tournament in 2014:
“We were pretty fired up just by the way we played last year and we knew there would be questions about that this year. We knew [Cal Poly] would come back and be an improved team, and all kudos go to them for making that epic run. It was great to see them win a game in the Tournament because at the end of the day, we’re all a part of the conference. I think we came back focused, and we’re really excited to show people that we’re a different team mentally.”
On how the team’s mentality has changed from last season:
“We’re tougher mentally. [Last year’s Big West Tournament] really changed our mindset of how we have to prepare for every game, and not to take anybody lightly. As coach says, ‘Respect everybody, and fear none.’ That’s our mantra this season.”
On team’s makeup this season:
“I think we’re a better team this year skill-wise, we’re deeper from top to bottom. We’ve got some new guys coming in and making a big-time difference. And we have older guys that are still out there doing their best and trying to lead this group to victory.”
On being called a ‘Gentle Giant’:
“I don’t mind it, I welcome any positive nickname. Off the court, I try to be a fun-loving, caring kind of guy. But, on the court it’s a different animal. Everything gets more serious when you’re on the court. Once I see the lights, and the crowd, I understand it’s a game. The smile is always there, but it’s a more aggressive smile.”