Swish Appeal recently interviewed Roxy Barahman, a former standout player at Yale. The discussion covered her Iranian heritage, upbringing in California, transition to New Haven as a student athlete at Yale, completion of her MA in Ireland, food experiences in Greece, championship win in Puerto Rico, and her preference for 3-pointers over layups. She also gave shoutouts to individuals who had a positive impact on her career.
Your parents are Iranian and you’re Iranian American. Could you share the story of how and why they came to the United States?
They wanted my brother and me to have opportunities and freedom that were lacking in Iran post-revolution. Moving to America was seen as a way to provide us with better prospects and access to top universities. I am grateful for the chance they took to give us a better future here.
Was your mother pregnant when they made the journey?
Yes, she was pregnant with us and wanted us to be born in the US. My grandfather’s US citizenship facilitated our move.
What language did you speak at home and how did your parents navigate raising you in a new environment?
Both my parents spoke Farsi with us to help us learn the language, but my brother and I mainly communicated in English. My mom encouraged us to speak English early on for easier interaction with peers.
When did you start playing basketball and realize it was your passion?
I developed an interest in basketball right before high school, having tried different sports earlier. The speed and complexity of basketball captured my attention, and I fell in love with the strategic aspect of the game.
You wear No. 21. Is there a significance behind this number?
No. 21 is a combination of my previous number, 10, and my trainer’s number, 2. My trainer played a pivotal role in my basketball journey and inspired me to pursue a career in Division I basketball.
After high school, you received a scholarship to Yale. How did you adjust to the move from California to New Haven?
Moving from sunny Southern California to New Haven was a significant change, especially adjusting to the four seasons. However, I embraced the new environment and appreciated experiencing different weather patterns.
Balancing academics and athletics at Yale is challenging. How did you manage this pressure?
My older teammates set a great example by excelling in both academics and athletics. Their guidance helped me establish a routine to prioritize both areas effectively.
You majored in biology at Yale. What influenced this choice?
I was drawn to biology due to my teammates’ interest in the subject. I found evolutionary biology intriguing and enjoyed delving into scientific concepts along with balancing my basketball commitments.
Can you recount the memorable buzzer-beater moment during your college career?
The buzzer-beater against Harvard stands out as a defining college moment for me. The pressure of the game and the thrill of making that game-winning shot are unforgettable.
