POCATELLO, Idaho- Hailing from Calgary in Alberta, Canada, freshman
Vishal Banipal hopes to become a real asset to ISU's basketball team. Idaho State had a chance to sit down with Banipal for a Q and A session prior to the start of practice.
When did you start playing basketball?
“I started playing basketball in 7
th grade. My sister played college basketball in Texas and she taught me how to play.”
When did you know that you wanted to play college ball?
"Every time I played back home my coach, who used to play in the NBA, he always told me I could play Division I basketball."
How did you choose Idaho State?
“Well when I came here on my visit it was really good and everyone is basically like a family here and they welcomed me.”
How has the transition been from Calgary to Pocatello?
“Well it's different than I thought it would be, but I actually like it. There are a lot of things to do and everything is close together.”
What is something that most people don't know about you?
“I am Sikh, which is an Indian religion. I am the only Sikh player in the NCAA.”
What did you do in the off season to prepare for this coming season?
“I worked out a lot with my coach back home. We would do two a days and I just worked as hard as I could to help prepare myself.”
What are your expectations/goals for the season?
“Our expectations are to get to the conference tournament and do well. As far as personal goals, I just want to do well and hopefully get Big Sky freshman of the year.”
How has it been transitioning into a Division I atmosphere?
“It's definitely been an adjustment, but I think I've been doing well so far.”
Outside of basketball what are your interests?
“I love music and I love going to the movies. Just hanging out with friends, anything where I can be social.”
What is your favorite thing about basketball?
“Well I love everything about the game, but you can use it as a tool to get an education.”
Do you have any superstitions?
“Before I walk into the gym and start playing, I always touch the floor and put my hands in prayer position.”
