What influenced your decision to participate in the Tauihi Basketball Aotearoa competition?
I was seeking a shorter season compared to the six or seven months overseas seasons that align with the WNBA. Given my recent shoulder surgery, playing for six months would have been taxing on my body. Tamari and I mutually decided to join the league to have a shorter season and play together abroad.
What was your knowledge about the league and the country before joining?
One of my Seattle teammates, Ezi Magbebor, who is from Australia but born in New Zealand, described the country as beautiful. I was aware that the league was relatively new, and that was the extent of my knowledge. I had to look up New Zealand on the map, but knew it was near Australia. I figured I would learn more as I went along.
In America, I struggled with transporting six bags of clothes through the airport, but in New Zealand, people immediately offered to help. This contrast made me realize how kind people are here.
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I have felt welcomed and safe here. People are genuinely kind.
Comparing the WNBA to the New Zealand scene, what are your observations?
The New Zealand scene offers more freedom compared to the structured roles and politics in the WNBA. Here, players have room to play their game, make mistakes, and still continue playing. This has made the game more enjoyable for me and has boosted my confidence.
I was born in Dallas but raised in Ohio. My mother works for Chase Bank in fraud detection, while my father has had various jobs, including teaching and coaching. He influenced me to love basketball, and I particularly enjoyed being in the gym with him.
I played multiple sports but fell in love with basketball, inspired by my father. I wanted to be where he was, and he introduced me to the game. Although he claims he named me after Michael Jordan, I remain skeptical.
Women’s basketball, particularly with personalities like Caitlin Clark, has generated significant interest. I’m pleased that people are engaging and discussing women’s basketball, highlighting the talent that has always existed.
There has been noticeable growth this year, with more people showing up to games. The transformation from the WNBA’s early stages to a more professional league akin to the NBA is inspiring. The potential for women’s basketball is limitless, and I am excited to witness its evolution.
Did you interact with Caitlin Clark during your WNBA journey?
Although I didn’t play against her in college, we were teammates in the USA under-16s team at the World Cup in Argentina in 2017. The experience of playing alongside talented players at an international level was unforgettable and enjoyable.
What have been your career highlights so far, and what are your goals?
Being drafted at No. 9 was a significant achievement. My aspirations include making the All-Stars, the All-Defensive team, winning an Olympic gold medal, securing a WNBA championship, winning the championship in New Zealand, and exploring the world, meeting new people, and embracing new experiences.
Is there substantial interaction between WNBA and NBA players?
There is better collaboration between the WNBA and NBA, with players supporting each other in Seattle and other regions. The camaraderie extends to other sports like the NFL, with players attending our games.
Have you explored much of New Zealand?
While I am aware that rugby is popular here, I haven’t had the opportunity to attend a game yet. I hope to visit a rugby match before leaving, but my schedule has been hectic with travel and other activities. I have visited the beach, engaged in sightseeing, and plan to visit a museum. Despite being introverted, I find walking down the street in New Zealand captivating.
You mentioned that a majority of the WNBA players are gay – can you elaborate on that?
It’s true that many players in the league are gay or bisexual, although not everyone falls within this category. The reasons behind this trend vary among individuals, and for me, sports and sexuality are distinct aspects of my identity.
Diversity, particularly for LGBTQ+ individuals, remains a significant issue. Have societal perceptions towards gay people changed?
Navigating social dynamics as a gay individual has always been challenging, with recent political shifts adding to the complexities. The uncertainty surrounding LGBTQ+ rights is a pervasive concern.
Do you foresee challenges if Donald Trump returns to office?
The potential return of Donald Trump to the presidency is concerning due to his divisive and discriminatory beliefs. His disregard for marginalized communities, such as women and the LGBTQ+ population, poses a threat to progress made in terms of equal rights and representation.
His policies jeopardize the progress made in LGBTQ+ rights and other social justice issues. While his return poses challenges, it is essential to stay prepared and resilient in the face of adversity.
What is the most valuable advice you have received?
My mother always emphasized teaching people how to treat me by believing in myself, putting in the work, and letting my actions speak for themselves. This advice helped me develop confidence, stay true to myself, and not let others undermine me.
What advice would you give aspiring young basketball players?
Believe in yourself, have fun, work hard, and maintain confidence. Enjoy the journey, work diligently, make sacrifices, and exhibit a strong sense of self-assurance. With dedication, consistency, and resilience, you can overcome any obstacle in pursuit of your dreams.
Have you faced doubts along your basketball journey?
Ups and downs are part of life and basketball. While there were moments of doubt and fatigue, I persevered by reminding myself of my goals and the passion driving me. It’s essential to keep pushing forward, even on challenging days.
Will you consider returning to New Zealand?
While I cannot disclose future plans, I am committed to returning to play in New Zealand and keeping my promise. I would recommend the experience to other players seeking a shorter season in a supportive environment where mutual care prevails.
Chris Rattue has been a journalist since 1980 and is one of the most respected opinion writers in New Zealand sports journalism.
