The Interview Editors
University of Louisville forward and new kid on the block in Nigeria Basketball, Jordan Nwora, said he might have been born in the United States, his heart is always in Africa, in Nigeria:
Did you take after your father in basketball?
Yes. We used to play it a lot at home and that made it easier for me to be properly integrated into it. Growing up seeing my family members playing, I was able to learn the rudiments of it and also understand it very well.
How does it feel playing under your father?
He has been there always as my coach so there is nothing different from the past playing under him again for the national team.
I am very happy with the outcome of the competition and look forward to doing better things for the country.
At 19, you made your debut for Nigeria. How does it feel?
It feels so great, we had a successful tournament, winning all our games. Playing with such great players was good for me and my confidence. I am very happy with the outcome of the competition and look forward to doing better things for the country.
What was growing up like for like?
I love everything about my growing up. I will say I was privileged. It has been fantastic playing under my dad both at home and with the national team now. He has been my coach from baby and will continue to be.
It has been fantastic playing under my dad both at home and with the national team now.
Are the African games tougher than what you have experienced in your basketball career?
Yes, definitely tougher. Everyone player here is physical, compared to what I was used to in the past. I had a broken face in the friendly game against Benin Republic, but I guess I am getting used to it. It was a little bit tough at first, but now getting better.
It’s different playing African basketball not what I am used to because of the physicality. Back home, I am one of the big guys in my team but here it’s different. It’s something I have to get used to not going to just happen right away.
How has it been combining education with sports?
My mum is always there for me. She is there for me in terms of academy while my dad is always there for me as per the sports. Education is very important and I am still going to get my degrees and other things I need to achieve academically. It has been a good thing for me having those two people (dad and mum) in my world helping me through life challenges.
