Justin Ayubi
Justin, Who is your hero?
My older brother Conner. We have been very close since we were both very young playing one on one outside and watching NBA games together. As he got older and went away to college I realized that what he wanted to do beyond college are similar to my interests. He has always pushed me to get better in basketball and life.
How has being a basketball player changed your life?
I have been around basketball since I was crawling around as a baby. It has since become my passion. I hope to stay connected even when I am not playing. When I am not playing I am watching any level of basketball for entertainment or to learn more about the game.
What advice can you share with kids about being a great basketball player and being a great human being?
Make your own path to achieve your goals. Have confidence in your craft and in yourself. Don’t be afraid of failure or change. Apply yourself to improve, in life and in basketball.
What do you do to ensure your mental health is as strong as your physical health?
Whenever I am having a bad mental health day I try and collect myself by closing my eyes and taking deep breaths. I try to slow my heart rate down and gather my thoughts.
Who in your life brings you love and encouragement?
My parents, JP, Jonette, along with my siblings Conner and Sophia, my aunt Ineke, is also a big encouragement in my life. Some other people I would like to shout out are my girlfriend Mia, and my old coaches, Rob Seat and Brandon Jackson, along with my current coach Anthony Ott.
How old are you and what is the biggest lesson you have learned in your life?
I am 17. The biggest lessons I have learned is to not take life for granted because you only live once.
What do you do when you are faced with hardships?
Whenever I encounter challenges, I try and take them head on and find the positives I can learn from them. Never give up.
What do you wish adults would understand about young people today?
Letting us live our lives is sometimes the best thing you can do for us.
What gets you up in the morning?
Knowing that so many people have helped and encouraged me throughout my life is what gets me up in the morning.
What is your biggest dream?
Becoming the best at whatever I decided to do in the future. To become the best version of myself is the most important thing to me.
What does self love mean to?
Self love to me is doing what makes you happy and not for others benefit
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