Courtesy of UR Athletics
Senior point guard John DiBartolomeo had an incredible weekend for the UR men’s basketball team. On the way to winning the Wendy’s College Classic title DiBartolomeo scored 79 points, recorded 23 rebounds and had 15 assists. Additionally, he went 21-23 from the free throw line, made 15 three pointers and was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player.
What is your major?
Financial economics.
When did you start playing basketball?
I have played my entire life, ever since I can remember. I played in high school and during the offseason I played [Amateur Athletic Union].
Why basketball?
I liked it the most. I tried all the sports growing up. I was a fan of lacrosse, and soccer was probably my favorite. As I got older I just kept playing basketball and liked it the most. Everyone thought it was dumb of me to try it because I was always the shortest player, but I decided just to focus on it in high school.
What is the hardest part of basketball?
At times, coaches get on me for getting frustrated, and if I mess up I let if affect me play after play. I think that it is tough for any player to move on to the next play, especially if you mess up. That has always been my biggest challenge: controlling my emotions on and off the court.
What do you enjoy most about the sport?
I love playing with my team. We are a very close-knit group. Succeeding and playing together is really fun if you are playing with people you want to play with.
Do you have a mentor?
I have had so many people try to help me over the years. My parents are very supportive, as they come to all of my games. They are always there to talk to me when I need to. They, and my brother, are my biggest supporters. In addition, all my coaches have been great supporters.
What’s the best advice a coach has ever given you?
Not to let one play affect the next.
What is your favorite moment from the Wendy’s Classic?
I always love the moments of games when they have to foul us after a rebound, we run to the other end of the court and then go into a huddle (we call it victory formation). That happened a few times last game.
What do you hope to do after graduation?
I am not really sure what I am going to do. I really want to try to go play professional overseas.
If you were not playing basketball, what sport would you want to play?
I always wanted to play football, but I have never been big enough. If I could play another sport and had the body type for it, I would definitely play football.
Davis is a member of the class of 2016.
