Media Prince

ATHLETE SPOTLIGHT: Elliott Meredith III

Position: Guard/ Wing

Height: 6’5”

Weight: 210 lbs

College: Washington Adventist University: USCAA D1, NAIA D2

Awards/ Achievements:

2012-13 ICAA D2 All-Freshman Team

2013-14 USCAA D1 National Champion

2015-16 NAIA D2 National Tournament Participant

2015-16 NAIA D2 Champions of Character Award

1,000 Career Point Scorer as of January 22nd, 2017

2016-17 AII D2 Conference Champion

2016-17 AII D2 All-Tournament Team

2017 NAIA D2 National Tournament Participant

2017 USCAA D1 All-American

2012-17 Team Captain

College Statistics: 2012-13; Averaged 9 Pts, 5 Rebs, 2 Ast, 2 Steals per game,

42% from FG, 26% from 3FG, 60% from FT.

2013-14; Averaged 10 Pts, 6 Rebs, 2 Ast, 1 Steals per game,

45% from FG, 20% from 3FG, 60% from FT.

2015-2016; Averaged 11 Pts, 7 Rebs, 2 Ast, 2 Steals per game,

51% from FG, 30% from 3FG, 60% from FT.

Season Highs; 23 Pts, 9 Rebs, 9 Ast, 3 Stls, 2 Blks

2016-2017; Averaged 13 Pts, 7 Rebs, 3 Ast, 2 Steals per game,

52% from FG, 25% from 3FG, 70% from FT.

TMP: When did you begin playing Basketball?

EM: From as early as I can remember, I’ve had a basketball and hoop in some form of fashion. I started playing organized basketball in travel leagues such as church leagues first, then it came to middle school, high school and etc.

TMP: What about Basketball attracted you?

EM: It’s always been around. It’s in my blood because my family all played at one point in time. I was either going to love basketball or hate that I HAD to love it lol

TMP: What is it about Basketball that keeps you thrilled?

EM: Basketball is exciting to play. There’s 3’s, dunks, ankle breakers, and great passes. All of that is great to watch, but even more thrilling if you can execute them yourself. Then there is the enjoyment of capturing a crowd that’s into the game just as much as you are. Smh, no other feeling like it.

TMP: How do you prepare for a game?

EM: By spending time in the gym, spending time mentally preparing for what is needed out of me each game, and then getting lost in music. Music relaxes me and hypes me up as well. Then I pray for protecting from injuries and for the ability to even play.

TMP: What is the biggest misconception about Basketball?

EM: For me, I’ve learned that great individual players all on one team isn’t better than a group of guys the are working together for a common goal. Talent only gets you so far if you want to win a championship.

TMP: What is your view on the current state of Basketball?

EM: It’s evolved into a less physical, more shot oriented game. High flying dunks and fancy passes.

TMP: Would you consider Basketball to be your form of art?

EM: It is one form of art for me. Along with music and actual art, basketball gives you an outlet to express yourself using creativity.

TMP: Would you say that Basketball is an outlet to get out any stress?

EM: It definitely is an escape from things of the real world. Can’t have all work and no play.

TMP: How do you keep yourself on your toes when it comes to the sport?

EM: I try to play on different platforms with different groups of people, continuing to learn and develop by watching other people’s techniques.

TMP: What inspires you to keep going?

EM: My family, my friends, the people I affiliate myself with all speak greatness into my life. I can’t let them down.

TMP: How important is it to leave your heart on the floor and give it your all in a game?

EM: It's super important because the higher levels of basketball that you reach, the more difficult it is to stay there if you take a day off. Everything can be taken from you in an instant.

TMP: What advice do you have for the little boy who is watching and wants to follow in your footsteps?

EM: Make sure you love the game and will sacrifice to go all the way. If you don’t love it, don’t waste your time.

TMP: What is next for you?

EM: I just came back from a pro team in Mexico so now I’m waiting to see if any other countries have openings for a player of my caliber. Also, I’m a recording artist so I’m always working on my music and looking for reliable studios to record at.

TMP: Can you explain what is your Spirit of Perseverance?

EM: This is a gift. Those who have it look at obstacles in life as stepping stools and difficult times as setups for comebacks. It’s just a totally different mindset.

TMP: What is your inspiration?

EM: My inspiration is knowing that better days are ahead and that nothing will keep them from reach the goals they’ve set for themselves.