Longwood University Athletics

FARMVILLE, Va. – Longwood University redshirt-junior Jeylani Dublin/Brooklyn, New York has been named the Longwood Male Athlete of the Week. He played off the bench in three games last week, averaging 14.7 points and 3.3 rebounds, while making 19-29 field goals (66%) and 6-10 free throws (60%). The 6-6 forward had 12 points, four rebounds and two steals against Brown University on November 22, followed by 16 points at Penn State University on Nov. 24, along with 16 points, four rebounds and four blocks (tying a career-high) at St. John's University on Nov. 26. Through six games, Dublin is averaging 10.7 points (63% FGs) and 3.2 rebounds, adding seven blocks and four steals.

Question and Answer Session with Jeylani Dublin and Ashley Robbins

AR: Talk about being able to add a season-high 16 points off the bench at Penn State.
JD: It is definitely an exciting experience. However, this is just the beginning. I still have a long way to go and I believe that I can do much greater things, as long as I continue to work hard every day in practice. That's where it all starts.

AR: Talk about being in the midst of this tough road stretch. What is the team hoping to accomplish and take away from it?
JD: We get the opportunity to play against some high caliber teams, which will definitely prepare us for conference play. As a team, we're focusing on getting better defensively and executing on the offensive end. Also, we are making sure that we learn from our mistakes and continuing to fight through adversity.

AR: Individual and team goals for the season?
JD: My goal is to become the best leader that I can be and set an example for the younger guys. Our number No. 1 team goal is to win that Big South Championship. Nothing less.

AR: Who do you consider to be a role model and why?
JD: Anthony Mckinley, my high school coach. He taught me how to be a leader in every aspect of life.

AR: If you could trade places with a teammate for the day, who would it be and why?
JD: I would trade places with our starting point guard Lucas Woodhouse. I've always wanted to know how it felt to play the point guard position and take on the role of being a floor general. Besides basketball, he's a cool kid.

AR: What is one of the best pieces of advice you've gotten in your career so far?
JD: A competitor rises above the level of competition. Failure to rise to the level of competition shows weakness. (Advice from Coach Gee)

AR: If you could give a piece of advice to a young athlete hoping to play DI basketball, what would it be?
JD: Never doubt yourself. As long as you continue to work hard, the results will show eventually.

AR: Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
JD: I play in two pairs of socks every game and I always shave my face before game day.

AR: Favorite athlete?
JD: Kobe Bryant

AR: Favorite movie?
JD: Saving Private Ryan

AR: Favorite band/artist?
JD: J. Cole