ATLANTA – Former Louisville guard Kevin Ware transferred to Georgia State earlier this spring after being cleared to play immediately by the NCAA. Ware is excited to be back in Georgia and closer to his mom’s home cooked meals. With two more years of eligibility left, Ware hopes to help the program win the Sun Belt championship and advance to the NCAA tournament.
What is the best thing about being back in Atlanta?
Kevin Ware: I am happy to be back. I am closer to my family, especially my nieces, and I get to enjoy my mom’s cooking more often.
What is it like playing for a coach that originally tried to recruit you out of high school?
KW: It is really just funny how God works. Coach and I laugh about it now. It is funny that I am here now instead of Georgia Tech or Georgia, because I originally didn’t give Georgia State a chance because it was a program with a new coach.
What was your favorite memory from Costa Rica this summer?
KW: There are not that many male role models there for the kids. So being able to make an impact in their lives and put on a smile on their face was the biggest joy of the whole trip.
What is something about you most people don’t know?
KW: So many people think I am mean, but I am a very quiet and nice guy once you get to know me.
Who would you like to see added to the schedule and why?
KW: Any Georgia teams, and maybe Auburn, Louisville, and Tennessee because they originally recruited me.
Who has been the most influential people for you since you came to Georgia State?
KW: R.J. has been influential. He is a great basketball player and cool guy. Ryan Harrow and I have been close since high school. Coach LaBarrie has also been a big help along the way.
What do you personally want to accomplish this season?
KW: The ultimate goal is for us to win the Sun Belt championship and go to the NCAA tournament.
What is your favorite hobby outside of basketball?
KW: Most people can’t tell because I don’t gain weight, but I love to eat! If I am not eating I am probably calling Call of Duty on my PS4.
Who is your favorite NBA player?
KW: I can’t choose one, so it is between Magic Johnson, Tracy McGrady, Lebron James, Russell Westbrook, Kevin Durant and Kobe Bryant.
What three words best describe your playing style?
KW: Aggressive, quick and fun. I am able to play strong defense, but also get involved on offense.
Is there any significance behind your jersey number?
KW: I wanted to be the number 5 when I came here, but I think it is retired so it was only right that I chose 0 for a fresh start. Next year, I will probably take over 55.
Who would you say is your biggest fan and why?
KW: My nieces and my mom. My mom has been there for me through it all and my nieces love basketball because of me.
What is the best compliment you have ever received?
KW: People tell me that I am really polite and well-mannered. I’ve also been told that I look like Omar Epps and Andre 3000, so I guess that is a compliment too.
If you could meet one celebrity who would it be?
KW: Bob Marley seemed like he was a really influential person and embraced his culture. I also have a lot of respect for Martin Luther King Jr.
Do you consider yourself a celebrity?
KW: A lot of people want to talk to me about my injury or they will just stare at me, so sadly yes, but I don’t let it go to my head.
