FARMVILLE, Va. – Longwood University freshman women’s basketball forward Khalilah Ali|Suffolk is this week’s Longwood Female Athlete of the Week. Ali averaged 31.0 minutes, 8.0 points and 7.0 rebounds in two games last week. She posted a season-high four steals and three blocks, along with six points and two boards in the team’s 75-67 loss at Coppin State on Nov. 20. In addition, she notched her first career double-double with a season-high 11 points, and a season-high and team-high 12 rebounds at Pittsburgh on Nov. 26 (L, 86-60). The freshman has started all six of the team’s games so far this season while averaging 7.0 points and 6.5 rebounds.
Question and Answer Session with Khalilah Ali and Bethany Drury
BD: How did it feel to get your first double-double at Pittsburgh?
KA: It was exciting. I worked really hard to get it. I wanted to win so badly [at Pitt]. I got a little tired, but I knew I had to keep working. I hope it happens again.
BD: How does it feel to start as a rookie?
KA: It’s great because I actually earned the spot and it shows that the coaches have enough confidence in me to put me in the starting lineup.
BD: Do you have any pregame rituals?
KA: I just pray and ask for my grandma to watch over me.
BD: What is your favorite basketball memory?
KA: The best game I ever had was the regional game my senior year of high school. I had 22 points.
BD: Do you have any role models?
KA: My dad because he’s always been the most supportive person in my life, and I’m a daddy’s girl.
BD: Why did you choose to come to Longwood?
KA: I like the environment and it’s close to home. The coaches made me feel really comfortable here.
BD: What is your favorite thing about Longwood?
KA: All the events we have. I like that they have stuff for us to do so we’re not just sitting around.
BD: Are you involved in anything else on campus?
KA: Not yet. I want to get into art though, maybe go take an art class.
BD: Do you have any other interests?
KA: I like working with kids, I want to do social work. I’m interested in art and social work.
BD: Do you have any advice for an aspiring athlete?
KA: Just stay on top of your game, on the court and in the classroom, because it’s not easy being a college athlete. Be prepared and organized.
BD: What is your favorite thing about Longwood basketball?
KA: Traveling, and playing against big schools that we can beat. It’s exciting because it’s my first year doing it and I love traveling anyway so that’s the most exciting part.
BD: Who is your favorite athlete?
KA: Kevin Durant
BD: What is your favorite team?
KA: Oklahoma City Thunder
BD: What is your favorite movie?
KA: The Color Purple
BD: What is your favorite song?
KA: ‘Trust and Believe’ by Keisha Cole
BD: What is your favorite book?
KA: I did read a Harry Potter book. That was the best book I ever read.
BD: What is your favorite food?
KA: Steak
