Longwood University Athletics

FARMVILLE, Va. – Longwood University sophomore Karl Ziegler/Annandale has been named the Longwood Male Athlete of the Week. He started two games last weekend during the Barclays Center Classic in West Long Branch, New Jersey, averaging 20.0 points and 6.0 rebounds, while making 8-16 field goals (50%) and 24-28 free throws (86%). The 6-5 forward had 17 points (13-16 FTs) and eight rebounds against North Carolina A&T University on November 29, followed by a career-high 23 points (11-12 FTs) and four rebounds against Mississippi Valley State University on Nov. 30. Ziegler was named to the Barclays Center Classic All-Tournament Team for his efforts. Through eight games, Karl is averaging 12.1 points (85% FTs) and 5.6 rebounds, adding seven steals and two blocks.

Question and Answer Session with Karl Ziegler and Ashley Robbins

AR: Talk about stepping into a big role on the team this season.
KZ: Right after the coaches got on campus, they were emphasizing the fact that they wanted me to be more of a vocal leader, and for me to be a leader on and off the court. That’s what I’ve been trying to do.

AR: Did you prepare any differently this offseason?
KZ: Not too much. I specifically worked on my outside shot and continued to make my mid-range game better. I did a lot of conditioning and spent a lot of time in the weight room.

AR: What are you individual and team goals for this season?
KZ: Individually, I want to continue to grow as a leader. It would be nice to get some recognition at the end of the season, but I’m really just focused on the Big South Tournament and winning a Big South Championship.

AR: Who do you consider to be role models in your life?
KZ: My mom and dad. My dad instills the toughness in me and my mom teaches me to be humble and never get too cocky.

AR: What do you think is the best part of the Longwood Men’s Basketball program?
KZ: How hard we work. With the culture change, Coach Gee has instilled that in us. Once we start playing in games like we do in practice, I think we’re going to be a really tough team to beat.

AR: Which teammate would you swap places with for a day?
KZ: Lucas Woodhouse. It would be really cool to play the point and be the floor general.

AR: Why did you choose Longwood?
KZ: It’s close to home. My family can come to games easily. The big reason why I wanted to stay here, especially after the coaching change, is because I had a lot of faith in Coach Gee and I really felt like he could change the whole program around.

AR: Do you have any pregame rituals or superstitions?
KZ: I take a shower before every game and I always say a prayer right before I go out. I also have to talk to my mom and dad before every game.

AR: Favorite movie?
KZ: Training Day

AR: Favorite class?
KZ: Sociology with Dr. Milne

AR: Favorite food?
KZ: Fettuccine alfrado