We are still a couple of months away from the tip-off of the college basketball season this fall, which means that we have plenty of time to start preparing for the action ahead. We will do so via a series of season previews featuring the best players/coaches in the country. HoopsHD’s Jon Teitel continues our coverage with Florida State G Jalen Warley, who talked about his team’s trip to Canada last month and his expectations for this season.
You were born/raised in Pennsylvania and named after Jalen Rose: what made you choose Florida State, and have you ever met your namesake? I have not met Jalen but I chose FSU due to the family environment and the coaching staff.
You play for Coach Leonard Hamilton: what makes him such a great coach, and what is the most important thing that you have learned from him so far? His ability to communicate with his players and explain his wisdom: it helps us see our mistakes before we make them.
You played in 31 games as a freshman: how were you able to come in and contribute right from the start? I was able to bring energy and an additional defensive presence every single game.
You have a 6’9” wingspan: how much of an advantage does your length give you on the court? It helps me make a lot of plays for myself and my teammates, especially on the defensive end to create transition opportunities.
Your team played 3 exhibition games in Canada last month: what was the best part of the trip? The best part was seeing our team come together and develop chemistry both on and off the court.
Your high school teammate Dereck Lively was the top-ranked player in the Class of 2022: how excited are you to face him in ACC play when you face his Duke team this season? I will be very excited to match up against him.
Your non-conference schedule includes games against Florida/Purdue/St. John’s (and possibly Ole Miss/Memphis): which of these games do you feel will present your biggest test? I am just looking forward to having a tough non-conference schedule.
Your father Jason/uncle Carlin played basketball at St. Joe’s, your grandfather Ben was an ABA All-Star in 1968, and your cousin Courtney played basketball at Manhattan: who is the best athlete in the family? I would probably say my cousin, even though she might not get the most credit.
Some NBA mock drafts have you projected as a 1st round pick in 2023: I know you are focused on the season ahead but what would it mean to you to make it to the NBA? It would be a lifelong dream come true.
What are your goals for this season, and what are your expectations for this season? My goal for our team is to win the ACC and make a run to the Final 4.