Athlete of the Week: Nichelle Hyman

Name: Nichelle Hyman

Sport: Basketball

Position: Guard

Classification: Sophomore

Major: Biology

Hometown: Clovis, N.M.

Who is your favorite athlete?

“That’s a tough one. There are so many athletes out there that are inspirational, so it’s really hard to pick one. I can name a couple. There’s LeBron James, [Russell] Westbrook, there’s just so many out there that are so good that I can’t name just one.”

Who is your role model?

“I would definitely say both my parents. They work very hard to get what they earn and to make a good life for me and my brothers. They’re definitely my role models and they inspire me to do better every day.”

What is the best advice you’ve been given and by whom? “The best advice I’ve been given is, ‘Listen to the message and not how the message is delivered,’ which was given to me by my parents. You know, whenever someone is yelling at you, you take the positive things they say. Take the actual message and not how they’re giving it  to you. Don’t take the yelling to heart.”

When did you begin playing basketball, and why?

“I started playing basketball in middle school. I thought I would try it out, and I really sucked. I couldn’t catch the ball, I couldn’t dribble, it was definitely rough for me, but my parents asked me if I’d like to do it, and I said yes. Ever since day one, I’ve tried to learn how to play the game of basketball.”

Where is your favorite place to hang out on campus? “I would say the Science Building. Sandella’s is my favorite place to eat.”

What are your academic goals? “My academic goal this year is to get straight A’s.”

How do you feel about being part of this team? “Being a part of this team is definitely fun. I like the communication, the team chemistry and I definitely learn every day from the coaches, so it’s a good atmosphere.”

What are your personal goals for this season? “My personal goal for the season is to get better, whether it be offense or defense.”

–Compiled by Sarah Carvajal