Q&A With Center Joseph Uchebo - Pittsburgh Pro-Am

It's extremely hard to ignore someone that is averaging 20 rebounds per game, even in a summer league environment. Obviously, those types of numbers won't translate when the actual season starts.  Still, the thought of junior center Joseph Uchebo contributing this fall has a lot of people very excited.

After another 20-rebound performance, Uchebo was kind enough to answer a few of our questions here at Cardiac Hill.

Q: Joe, there's a lot of buzz about the way you're playing in this event. If you had to put a percentage on where you are right now in terms of how you're feeling and your health, what is it?

I can say right now maybe 60/70% percent right now. I am getting way better rehabbing right now. I think I am getting strong and running down the court pretty well.

Q: Can you talk a little bit about your matchup against Zeke Marshall (Akron) last week and what it was like going against another true big?

Well, I have to defend two people at the same time. One of my teammates isn't a defensive player, a rebounding player, he's a scorer. It leaves me to box two people out the whole time, but he's good also, they're all tough. It's for me to get in the weight room, push more weight, and get stronger.

Q: How much do you think you'll be able to contribute this upcoming season?

I think I am going to get a lot of playing time, the way I am moving. I am getting stronger and rehabbing every day being in the weight room. I think I am going to play a lot this season.

Q: Do you guys have any expectations going into the year?

After the Bahamas, it's going to give everybody an idea of where everybody is at right now. When we come back from the Bahamas we're going to know our positions and we are going to know where we're at.

Q: I've really noticed here (Pro-Am) that you guys are really invested in each other’s games, sit together, and joke a lot. Do you feel like there is a strong chemistry with this team on and off the court?

Yes, of course, of course. Even in practice or in the workout room, we have to play around for at least 15-20 minutes, having fun. Most of the guys here (players on other teams) are going home. Some of the guys stay together, but we always stay together, ride together. Even the guys that play at 7 o'clock stay, so we can all leave at the same time.

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