University of Minnesota Athletics
Senior Spotlight: Joey King
5/18/2016 12:00:00 AM | Men's Basketball
Forward Joey King was one of two Gopher men's basketball players to walk across the stage and receive his diploma last week, along with fellow big man Charles Buggs. While Buggs has one year of eligibility remaining and plans to pursue graduate studies at the U next year, King will depart campus and move on to the next phase of his career.
GopherSports.com had the chance to catch up with King earlier this week.
How would you describe the feeling of walking across the stage at your graduation?
I'm fortunate to have overcome the challenge of completing my degree requirements along with a minor in only three years - I had switched majors after transferring from Drake.
Have you had a chance to look back on your career as a Gopher?
Certainly in March, at the conclusion of the season. The combination of completing school and planning out my summer over the past few months has kept me busy.
What advice would you give the newest Gophers?
To the incoming freshmen, I cannot stress the importance of balancing athletics and academics enough. Competing as a student-athlete in the Big 10 is a demanding task, therefore the balance will never be perfect. The best way to relieve stress during the long and taxing season is to stay on top of your studies. There is nothing worse than entering a game night knowing you are unprepared for an exam the following day.
What's next for you?
I am in the process of developing a shooting clinic for youth basketball players. It will be located in the South Suburban Area (Lakeville, Eagan, Apple Valley). My Instagram account (@Kingjoey_24) will have more information in the coming weeks once I determine a time and place.
Over the past 8-10 weeks my foot has healed nicely. I am practicing tirelessly to improve and prepare myself for the next level. My agent and I have been working diligently to put me in a position to succeed and I am very pleased with our progress.
My additional free time will be spent traveling, attending a few concerts, and spending some much needed time on the lake. Competing for a Division I program often makes those activities out of reach. The future is looking very bright because of the endless opportunities our great university has helped provide me. I am eager to step out into the real world and get started!
Anything else you'd like to add?
Once again thank you to all loyal Gophers fans for three memorable years. I could not have accomplished everything I have done on and off the court without your overwhelming support.
