It has been a particulary pleasure for us the possibility we had to make an interview with Michael Cobbins, junior player from Amarillo, Texas, and we present to our special readers his answers to our questions.
Tell us something about your experience at Oklahoma State (like something you really love about your college)?“The best thing about coming to college was getting to know the two other guys I came in with, Markel Brown and Brian Williams. Hanging out with them off the court, riding around town in Brian’s car. When he got his wheels, it was our only means of transportation. We also put together a video called OkStateCribs our freshman season, showing off the locker room.”
Here is a link to the video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RvkrGLIpp5c
Michael Cobbins, Oklahoma State Cowboys (Credits okstate.com/ok.state Athletics Communications Department)
When you decided to go to Oklahoma State, what convinced you more (if there was a principal motive) to go there, comparing your college with others?
“I came here on my visit, and it just felt really family oriented. The coaches were very welcoming, and the school had my major (field of study). Not to mention, it was somewhat close to home. My grandparents live about two hours away, so they can get here and see me. It was just a good fit for me.”
Could you tell us something about the rivalry with Oklahoma when you have basketball games between the two teams (like an episode of the past you remember with more pleasure, or something that explaines well how those situation are important for yours fans for examples)?
“It’s a whole different atmosphere during Bedlam (the name of the rivalry between Oklahoma State University and the University of Oklahoma in Norman). It’s chaos, and there’s just a different atmosphere, on campus, in the gym, at the football games. When it comes to OU, everyone knows, it’s time to step up.”
The incoming season is at least crucial for the team. You are the co-favorite to win the Big 12 title in the 2013-2014 Preseason Coaches Poll. What did coach Ford told you (all the team) in the first meeting all you had about this new season (like something he wants more from all you or if he anticipated something new in the training)?
“Coach (Ford) told us that we can’t turn it off and on like a light switch. We’ve got to have the energy and enthusiasm on all the time. Teams are going to be coming at us, because we have a target on our backs now. We’ve just got to take it one game at a time, and worry about things as they come.”
How many hours at the week you usually spend in basketball training (or totally if you stay more in gym that the official training)?
“We spend about 20 hours a week training for games, usually four to five days a weeks. We have individual workouts with the coaches in the morning, and then we’ll have weight lifting, and then in the afternoon, we get in the gym and workout as a team with the coaches. Everyone on the team tries to get up extra shots outside of our normal practice times. We watch film before every practice, just to see the mistakes we made in the previous practice or game, and try to learn from those mistakes.”
Recently Howard D. “Bones” Francis”passed away. Speaking about basketball and in playing there, did you have notice if there is an Oklahoma State player of the past that the people there remember more or have a strong relation with (if there is one) (like someone that is still used like an example for you, players, or the people speak often about him for example)?
“People talk to me about Marshall Moses, because he was left-handed, and I’m left-handed as well. Also, Ivan McFarlin, just because of his length and we’re about the same height, as well as his ability to do things out on the court.”
Finally, we’ll follow your season closely, may i ask you to send your greetings to yours fans in Italy?
“Continue to support us and follow us, through our ups and downs. We appreciate the love. Go Pokes!”
Note: A Special thanks to Mr.Mike Noteware, Ass.Director Communications at Oklahoma State for his special support in this interview and to Michael, for the time he dedicate us, wishing him and to his team, a great season.
