Bennedict Mathurin Q&A

Credit: NBA Academy

For the next installment of the Pro Insight Q&A series, we present NBA Academy Latin America guard Bennedict Mathurin, from Montreal, Quebec:

Pro Insight: Prior to NBA academy where were you playing and how did you come into this opportunity?

Bennedict Mathurin: I was playing at nationals for Team Quebec and I was playing a really good game and there was a coach there that pulled me aside and said “hey, if a train passes by you have to get on it,” and I didn’t know what he meant at first. Then, a couple weeks later I got a call and it was an invitation to the NBA Academy.

PI: Where are you playing with them right now?

BM: In Mexico City.

PI: How do you like Mexico City?

BM: It’s really cool. People over there only speak Spanish so it was hard, at first. There’s a lot of tacos and burritos, so I’ve been eating good.

PI: Is the food better in Mexico or back home in Quebec?

BM: Quebec.

PI: How many languages do you speak?

BM: Three-and-a-half. French, English, Creole and a little bit of Spanish now that I’ve been living in Mexico City.

PI: How was your experience with NBA Academy been so far?

BM: I think it’s been a really good experience because ever since I got here I’ve improved a lot and I’ve matured a lot as a person.

PI: What are the most important things you’ll be taking away from your experience with NBA Academy?

BM: First, it’s a great opportunity because I get to inspire kids at home in Quebec. I come from a neighborhood in Montreal that is a bit tougher so for people to see me will inspire young people. Second, it is a good opportunity because I get to play in front of college coaches which I wouldn’t have gotten this opportunity otherwise. Lastly, I am grateful because I know these coaches care about me and they believe in me.

PI: For those that don’t know your game, describe your game? First talk about your strengths

BM: My strengths are my ability to penetrate, I can also shoot well, and I am very athletic, also.

PI: How about your weaknesses?

BM: My free throws. I should also improve my defense and my communication on defense and become a better leader.

PI: What is the most underrated part of your game?

BM: My bounce.

PI: What position do you view yourself?

BM: Guard. Either a 1 or a 2.

PI: What type of system do you enjoy playing in most?

BM: A system that’s fast. I like to push the ball.

PI: What’s your high school class?

BM: If I was in Canada I was supposed to be 2021, but I’m 2020 here.

PI: Of all the opponents you’ve played recently, who’s been the toughest to matchup with?

BM: Oumar Ballo.

PI: How come?

BM: He is really strong and is 6’11. He’s tough to score over!

PI: Did anyone in particular stand out to you at the NBA Academy event in Atlanta?

BM: Blake Jones from Australia. I saw him play and I wa