One of my favorite memories here at UCF is going to all of the men’s basketball games. With the Knights winning 16 of their 17 home games, there was never a dull moment. There was an over-the-top amount of “Stomp Stomp Clap Clap Whoosh” moments that they may need to replace some bleachers.
When I moved to Tower 3 and I found out that I would be neighbors with the basketball team, I could not have been more excited. I have been able to get to know members of the team in ways I never thought. But the one player I have gotten to know the most is #33, Keith Clanton. Not only does he walk into our dorm randomly at times, he loves to hide our things in the air vents, using his 6’9” height as an advantage. Even though he’s a prankster who loves our pantry, he is very genuine and funny. I wanted everyone to know the type of person he is, which is why I chose to interview him.
Keith has a long list of basketball accomplishments that just keeps growing. He has started all 33 games and has an average of 14.5 points. He has scored in double figures 28 times and paced the team in points on 17 different occasions. During our win against the Pirates, Keith became the 15th player in our school history to reach the 1,000-point mark for their career. These are just a small fraction of all of Keith’s accomplishments; he is bound to be a star.
Q: How long have you been playing?
A: Let me think, 10 years.
Q: Have you always wanted to play basketball?
A: Actually, when I was younger I was more into football.
Q: What got you into basketball?
A: My older brother played. Basically, I just wanted to be around him.
Q: What’s your favorite part of being a UCF Knight?
A: I’m so close to home. I get to go back home and see my momma.
Q: How is it balancing school and basketball?
A: Uhh, it’s hard. You really have to plan when to study when not at practice. It’s harder than you think, but I make it look easy.
Q: What do you do in your free time?
A: I love long walks on the beach. I like to see every new movie, and I like to eat. Basically, just to relax. Oh! And video games, specifically 2K and Madden.
Q: What are your plans for the future? Do you think you will play basketball?
A: Hopefully, I will play for the NBA. That’s what I really want.
Q: What’s your dream team?
A: Orlando Magic.
Q: OK, let’s get to the basics. Favorite TV show?
A: Oh! Burn Notice.
Q: Favorite food?
A: Anything fried, but mostly fried chicken.
Q: Favorite animal?
A: I hate dogs. I’d rather do roaches.
Q: Favorite warm-up?
A: Anything that’s easy. 3-man weave. It’s the best cause it’s easy.