MANILA, PHILIPPINES, – In an interview with the Orlando Magic point guard Elfrid Payton, the 23-year-old basketball player is known for his courage on the defensive side.
On his first time here in the Philippines, Payton participated with Sue Wicks in the Jr. NBA Philippines 2017 National Training Camp at the SM Mall of Asia Music Hall.
Here is our short Q&A with Elfrid Payton:
With your short trip here in the Philippines, how do you find the talent have you seeing so far?
“Really good. You know I might say I was surprised but I wasn’t expecting there a lot of talent. I’m excited to see the boys now.”
How do you find the passion of the Filipinos on the game of basketball?
“They really love basketball we can tell.”
Do you see anyone, like a Filipino going to NBA someday?
“Yeah. Anything is possible especially with the goal of the basketball over here. The way basketball is going crazy really here. I can see it happening.”
What is the most important value that a person has to have in order to become a successful basketball player?
“Determination. You know a lot of people have you know the drive and the focus and all have talent but this game has highs and low you have to think yourself and back up.”
What advice do you give to aspiring basketball players?
“Just play hard. Continue to work on your game. Continue to practice every day, take what you learn on a day and practice it at home.”
As a point guard, what do you think is a good advice you can give to be a survive in the NBA?
“You have to be able to especially being short, you got to be able to create your own shot. For tall guys, you must be able to create space and just be a great defender especially in the point guard position. And just have a great overall knowledge of the game.”
Story and photo by: Xaren Balon
