The Basketball Interview with Kelvin Miller
2017 Davenport Central guard Kelvin (Ray) Miller has long been one of the most athletic players in the state, routinely throwing down powerful dunks despite being just 6-0. A top-notch perimeter defender who doesn’t lack in confidence, Miller recently picked up his first offer, from Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC). This is “The Basketball Interview with Kelvin Miller”.
Q: What is your favorite part of game day at Davenport Central?
I think the best part of game day is turning up in the locker room with my brothers, getting hype before the game. Also the crowd and what they do for the team. They’re the reason I want to bring one back to Central.
Q: Who is the most difficult player to defend in the state?
I don’t think anyone is really hard to guard. I feel like I can guard every position because of my athleticism and I’m strong enough to battle with big men.
Q: Which gym is your favorite to play in and why?
It has to be North Scott (The Pit). That’s how a gym should look in my opinion.
Q: If you had complete control over the schedule and could put anyone on it, who would you want to play?
Honestly, I’ll put Iowa City West on the schedule. Everyone says they’re the big dogs in the state and I feel like my team could hang with them, but not everyone is going to think that. I’ve got a lot of respect for them and my Barnstormers brothers, but I’m going hard at them if we every play each other.
Q: Who is your favorite basketball player of all-time? Do you model your game after them or any other players?
My favorite player is Russell Westbrook. I try my best to copy how he plays. He’s so athletic and he’s got a great scoring ability. He can get to the hole whenever he gets the ball. On the defensive side he can lock people down. He reads passes and then goes down and tries to break the rim.
Q: What is the best piece of coaching advice you’ve ever received?
It came from JP (Jamie Pettigrew, Iowa Barnstormers coach). I remember him telling me that “You can be the best but you’re playing soft. No one can guard you so play like it’s your last. Go to the hole and try to dunk on people or else I’m going to sit you.” Coach JP has believed in me since he picked me up and put me on his team. He’s seen something in me that no one else has and I’m thankful for getting the opportunity to be coached by him.