ODU Sports is continuing a series of questions and answers with student-athletes at Old Dominion University. This week’s edition features redshirt sophomore forward from Merrillville, Ind., Zoran Talley. As a redshirt freshman last season, Talley was fourth on the team in scoring (8.1 ppg) and third in rebounding (4.5 rpg). Talley is a communications major.
Get to Know Zoran Talley
Q: How would you assess your first season in an ODU uniform?
A: I would call it a learning experience. Before last season, I redshirted, so getting out on the court and having fun with my teammates was just an overall great experience. My first season also helped me to build some self-confidence for the upcoming season. I am just looking forward to playing another year in an ODU uniform.
Q: Why did you choose ODU?
A: The coaching staff did a great job recruiting me. It was also the best fit for me overall.
Q: Favorite non-basketball moment at Old Dominion?
A: Having fun with my teammates on the weekends.
Q: What have you been working on the most this offseason?
A: My jump shot, free throws and a little bit of ball handling.
Q: What do you consider your greatest strength on the hardwood?
A: I know how to use my length and body, and that helps me in many situations on the court.
Q: What do you hope to accomplish personally and as a team this season?
A: Personally, I just want to win every night. As a team, I want to win the C-USA and get a ring.
Q: Social media of choice?
A: Snapchat.
Q: Favorite place on campus?
A: I would have to say my room, because I can just sleep in there.
Q: Favorite restaurant in Norfolk?
A: I would have to go with Belmont. They have a wing night every Wednesday.
Q: Favorite food?
A: Seafood.
Q: Favorite dessert?
A: Strawberry cheesecake.
Q: Funniest teammate?
A: This year it is hard to name just one person, but last year it was definitely Martin Shaw.
Q: Who is your favorite NBA team?
A: Los Angeles Lakers. I grew up watching them and have been a fan my entire life.
Q: Who is your favorite NBA player?
A: Kobe Bryant is my all-time favorite. I have been watching him play ever since I was a kid. Now that Kobe is retired, Paul George from the Indiana Pacers is my favorite player.
Q: Which C-USA opponent do you get most excited to play and why?
A: When we play on the road against Western Kentucky because that is the closest game to my family. They always come to those games.
Q: Favorite artist?
A: Lil Wayne is my all-time favorite, and that will never change. My favorite rapper at the moment is Lil Hurd, though.
Q: Favorite movie?
A: “Paid in Full”
Q: Do you have any hidden talents?
A: I used to play the bassoon in a band.
Q: Who has been your biggest influence while playing basketball?
A: It is hard to name just one person, but definitely my family.
Q: Name one thing that most people don’t know about you?
A: I used to wear braces.
Q: Do you have any unique pre-game rituals?
A: Not really, I just listen to music and text my mom before the games.
Q: If you could meet anyone from the past or present, who would it be and why?
A: I would like to meet Kobe Bryant, because he has always been my favorite basketball player. I have never had a chance to actually see him play, so I would really like to meet him.
Q: Dream job?
A: My dream is to play in the NBA.
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