I had the opportunity to interview Dash Harris who played point guard for Texas A&M during the past four seasons.
The point guard from Inglewood, California was an intricate piece for the Aggies during his tenure playing at TAMU. At A&M Harris was always a scrappy defender with a pass-first mentally. This past season the Aggies missed Harris when his injury occurred mid-season. It showed how much his leadership and heady point guard play was missed.
While playing for the Aggies, Harris was named Big 12 All-Defensive Team(09-10), Team Defensive Player of the Year (10-11). He was a major piece in leading the Aggies to NCAA tournament births during the 2008-2011. Harris is also one of eight people in school history who tallied over 300 assists and 100 steals.
To catch up with the former Aggie Dash Harris, follow him on Twitter @Dash5Harris and follow his journey to the NBA.
Ron: What was your biggest memory of playing for the Texas A&M Aggies?
Dash: “My biggest memory is probably playing three consecutive years in the NCAA tournament. There’s no other feeling in college basketball like be able to partake in all of the post-season activities, and chasing after a win. Win or go home change the entire magnitude of the game.”
Ron: We are aware that you are a sneaker head. What is your favorite sneaker to wear on the court and favorite off the court?
Dash: “My favorite shoes on the court are any type of Kobe’s or Kevin Durant’s. Off the floor, of course any Retro Air Jordan is a good look. But I’m really not picky; If they’re quality designed kicks, I can pull them off.”
Ron: Who is/was the best player that you have ever played against in college?
Dash: “I have played against so many individually talented players that it is hard to pinpoint just one. But I as a unit, I can recall playing against UConn my freshman year in the NCAA tournament. Their team ran like a machine. Their [sic] were at least 5 pros, and they were very experienced. Their team chemistry made them such a tough opponent.”
Ron: What will you miss most about College Hoops?
Dash: “I’ll definitely miss running out onto the Reed Arena floor and hearing all of the Aggies cheering. I’ll also miss the rivalries, whether in conference or non-conference. College hoops is a huge dog fight of players trying to make it to the next level. With that being said, there was a challenge every night. I’ll miss the competitiveness and grit I’ve experienced for 4 years.”
Ron: Do you think that your experience playing against NBA Talent in the Drew League and other Pro-Ams have prepared you for the next level?
Dash: “Well I have only played 1 game in the Drew League, but I have been competing against guys like James Harden, Demar Derozan, Russell Westbrook, Brandon Jennings, and Austin Daye since we were kids. So I think playing against or with guys of that caliber has really helped my game, especially from a confidence level. Also by these guys being friends of mine, I’ve watched them accomplish their dreams first hand, which has increased my determination to do the same. Those guys always say their waiting on me!”
Ron: What are you doing to prepare for the NBA Pre-Draft and Individual Workouts?
Dash: “I have been in Houston working out with John Lucas. 3 workouts a day consist of gym work, weights, and conditioning. Lucas is a basketball guru, and the level of competition and talent that walks in and out of the gym daily is extraordinary. I’ve been able to work on the consistency of my jump shot, pick and roll basketball, and staying in attack mode. All while competing against NBA guys or future NBA guys. “The Lab” is my home.”
Ron: Who do you compare your game to, and who was your favorite player growing up?
Dash: “Of course everyone loves and admires Mike. But my favorite player to watch growing up was Magic Johnson. I’ve always admired his passing ability and winning mentality. My favorite player in the NBA currently is Rajon Rondo. I love the way that he can impact a game without looking to score, and his ability to get his teammates the ball in position to score. I have a similar mindset and ability, so I compare my game to his.”
Ron: What is the craziest thing that has happen to you so far since preparing for the NBA?
Dash: “I met an elder lady in Los Angeles and she took a picture of me on her phone. She asked for my email address to send to me. Once I gave it to her, she said once she sees me get drafted, she’ll email me about her tickets.”
Ron: How has Baron Davis and the other NBA players that you have a relationship with helped with getting accustomed to the NBA Lifestyle?
Dash: “Baron has helped me out a lot. I have been around him since I was about eight years old, so I saw a lot of things at a young age. Like I mentioned earlier, being friends with these guys showed me the difference between being an average athlete and being a professional. I’ve learned how to do with certain situations on and off the basketball floor. I appreciate those guys because i can call them any day and get help or advise on a current situation, and I know for myself that they’ve been through it.”
This kids speaks live a professional and carry his self like one as well. He’s need as a pro. His game is like no other. True point guard. Can’t wait to see him on a team. Can’t wait