jon jay | What have you learned that you want to pass onto young players?
The biggest thing is discipline and routine. It’s a sacrifice. You miss out on a lot of things that are happening around you, but it’s worth it in the end. For me, it’s important to continue to put the work in. One of the biggest things for me is putting yourself in uncomfortable situations during the practice, so during the game you’re comfortable.
napheesa collier
What was it like adjusting to playing in college under coach Geno Auriemma?
It was really hard. I knew it would be difficult physically because the other players would be bigger, faster and stronger, but I don’t think I was prepared for how hard it would be mentally. Coach Auriemma is very demanding, but that’s why you grow so much being there. I know it’s what made me into the player I am today. He really expects us not to just be the most talented team, but also the smartest. It wasn’t an easy journey to break old habits and start thinking in a totally different way.
jackie joyner-kersee
What did you learn as a competitor, and what do you try to pass on to other women?
I think it’s important to build a community of like-minded people who don’t just agree with one another but are honest. Seeing the women of today take things to the next level has been really inspiring. As great of an athlete as I may be considered, myself and other female athletes never got the recognition I felt we deserved in my day. It’s great seeing Candance Parker be the first woman to appear on the cover of the NBA 2K video game.
orlando pace
Did you ever consider coaching?
It crossed my mind to do some individual training, but I couldn’t coach. To be honest, I don’t think I have the patience. If a young player asks me about the game, I’m always willing to share my knowledge and help in any way I can. But I don’t want that much structure in retirement, having to be somewhere 10 hours a day. I still love football, but coaching wasn’t the direction I wanted to go in.
jack flaherty
Best perk of being a professional baseball player.
I have the opportunity to live out my dream. I also get to travel and meet different people, but just getting to play baseball is the biggest perk of all.