Diego Vita/THE RIDER
Koree Cotton, a junior guard for the UTRGV Men’s Basketball Team, led the Vaqueros with 20 points in the semifinal game of the Southland Conference Basketball Championship against McNeese State University March 10 in Lake Charles, Louisiana.
Q: How are you feeling today on a scale from one to 10?
A: “I’d say about a nine or 9.5 right now because we’re about to have practice. Once practice starts, I’ll probably be at a 10.”
Q: How has your first season at UTRGV been so far?
A: “It’s been great. I’ve met a lot of new people, and everyone around the program has been great—the coaches, teammates and staff. The whole athletic department has been very supportive.”
Q: What does it mean to you to earn First Team All-Conference and All-Defensive Team honors?
A: “It means a lot. It shows the hard work we put in as a team every day. I wouldn’t have gotten those honors without my teammates and coaches.”
Q: What was going through your mind during your 21-point game against Northwestern State University?
A: “I was just in the flow. The ball kept finding me in good positions, and I was able to score. Coach drew up some great plays, and hitting that big shot at the end felt amazing.”
Q: Who has had the biggest influence on your basketball journey?
A: “Of course, God. Also, my father and my high school coaches. When my mom passed away, they helped keep me on the right path and made sure I stayed focused.”
Q: What do you like most about your teammates and the team culture at UTRGV?
A: “The energy and good vibes. Everyone is passionate about basketball, and we all want to win. I feel like I’m having one of the best times of my life here.”
Q: What is a fun fact about you that most people do not know?
A: “I can cook. I’m a really good cook, so if anyone wants a meal, they can tap in with me.”
–Compiled by Diego Vita
