The Basketball Interview with Max Nielson
Sioux Valley senior guard Max Nielson scored 20 a game last year making half his field goals and nearly 90 percent of his foul shots. Today Max joins us for The Basketball Interview.
Prep Hoops: What are your first memories of basketball becoming something you love and a big part of your life?
Max Nielson: My first real memory of basketball was when I was really little and would go along with the older kids to their tournaments and shoot in warmups with them. But a basketball has been placed in my hands since I was born.
PH: What is your pregame ritual on game day?
My pregame ritual consists of eating some Subway- Italian BMT, taking about an hour nap, and listening to music.
PH: Who is your favorite college or professional player to watch? And to learn from (if different)?
My favorite player to watch/learn from would definitely be Kyrie Irving.
PH: Do you enjoy the NBA and if so, what teams do you regularly watch?
I do watch the NBA when I have some time. I don’t really watch a specific team. I follow players more than anything.
PH: If you could play on any court in the world, what court would you pick and why?
I would love to play at Dyckman Park in New York City. The atmosphere and love for the game is just crazy.
PH: Who is your team’s biggest rival in basketball and what makes that rivalry special?
I wouldn’t say we have one specific rival that sticks out. In my eyes, no one likes us.
PH: When you are off the floor, what is your favorite hobby to take part in?
When I’m off the floor I generally just am either watching a movie, hanging with friends, or doing homework.
PH: The best sports movie of all time is? And best non sports move?
My favorite sports movie of all time is Coach Carter. My favorite movie of all time would be the Wolf of Wall Street or Focus.
PH: At this point in your basketball life what has been the most memorable moment, or moments?
The most memorable moment of basketball for me so far would be my Sophomore year going to state and this past summer going to Atlanta in July with the Schoolers.
PH: How do players in your community support and relate to the young and up and coming players? In other words, what do you guys do to support the youth hoopers in your area?
We’re always putting on camps for the little kids and helping out with their tournaments. Then depending on scheduling I always try and make it to some of their games on the weekends. I just remember how much that meant to me when I was little having an older player come and watch me.
PH: What is the best advice that you’ve received in life?
The best advice I’ve received in life is “you’re never too good for anyone” and “set your goals high enough that you may not reach them.”
PH: What makes basketball in South Dakota different? And what makes it special?
Basketball in SD is so special because we’re a small enough state that when winter comes and basketball rolls around everyone is so invested in it. Mostly everyone in SD cares about basketball in the winter. Everyone knows everyone.