Athlete of the Week

Ime Archibong, TD '03 Men's basketball guard Height: 6'3" Weight: 215 lbs. Hometown: Greensboro, NC Favorite Pro Team: Philadelphia 76ers Favorite Pro Players: Allen Iverson, Shaquille O'Neill, Kevin Garnett Favorite Bands: Jay-Z, Cash Money Millionaires Favorite Album: Jay-Z Hard Knock Life Vol. 2 Pick to win the NBA title this season: L.A. Lakers

It is a good thing for Bulldog basketball fans that his dad agreed, because he is now one of the critical veterans on the Yale basketball squad. In the first start of his Yale career on Mon., Dec. 4, against Colgate, Archibong grabbed a career-high 10 rebounds and topped the game off with a massive dunk to lead the Bulldogs to a 56-41 victory over the Red Raiders.

Did he have the jitters before his first start with the Bulldogs? Apparently not; Archibong said that he "was not nervous because I felt confident," especially since he has been playing more and more minutes lately.

So he doesn't get butterflies in his stomach before games? "No, I felt confident." Does he even have any superstitions or pre-game rituals? "No, I don't have any." He obviously trusts his skills above luck—coupled with his mental concentration and natural confidence on the court, this Eli doesn't need dirty socks or lucky boxers to pull him through.

Archibong also feels very confident about this season and the team's prospects overall. "Coach Jones has definitely turned this team around and the players trust him. The team is great, healthy, and better with the addition of the incoming freshmen. There is a lot of competition—healthy competition—in practice," he says.

What does Archibong do off the court in his barely-existent spare time? When not chipping in points or making steals on the basketball court, Archibong can be found working at the weight room front desk which he says is "not a bad job," hanging out with his friends, or listening to music. "I enjoy dancing and watching basketball games, especially when the Philadelphia 76ers are playing. I like Allen Iverson, but Shaq, Ray Allen, Kevin Garnett, and Jason Williams are also exciting to watch." Between his intense computer science major and the demanding practice schedule of in-season ball Archibong doesn't get much time to kick back, but he does try to enjoy what little time he has by relaxing in front of the television and watching a game with his buddies.

And what does he want to do with his life after Yale—and after he leaves the boards of Bulldog basketball? "Well, I would like to find a pro league to play in." If he can continue his exemplary play, grab more rebounds, and contribute offensively and as a leader, he will have a good shot at making a pro team in the not-so-distant future. Until then, he is content to sit in his room, listen to Jay-Z and relax...when he can. Photo courtesy Yale Banner.

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