2011-12 Winter Preview: Q&A with Justin Pahl

After averaging over 15 points per game as a junior, East Ridge sharpshooter Justin Pahl is returning to the court to help lead the Raptors this winter.

The 6-foot-3 guard is regarded as one of the best shooters in the state of Minnesota and is being recruited by top Div. III college programs in the Midwest.

A transfer student from Mahtomedi, Pahl averaged 15.7 points a game with the Raptors last season, which was a team high and good for fifth in the Suburban East Conference. Pahl went over 20 points on seven occasions in 2010-11. He had a season high of 27 against Trinity of River Ridge and 25 points against Suburban East Conference foes Mounds View and Roseville.

We sat down with the Raptors’ leading scorer to find out more about him on and off the court.

What’s your favorite sports memory?

When my AAU travel team played in Florida for Nationals. I enjoyed playing against the top teams in the country as well as taking in the beach and sites with my teammates.

Do you have one individual performance at a game that sticks out as being a great one?

One individual game performance that sticks out as being a great one is my sophomore season when I made 12 three pointers in one game which is a second all-time Minnesota state record.

Do you have a game that sticks out as being a bad one?

One that stuck out as a bad one was at White Bear last year. In this particular game I was not mentally prepared for the game and it showed when game time hit.

Do you have any pre-game rituals?

I usually eat at Subway, watch JV/B squad, and get mentally prepared by shooting for an hour before the game.

Do you have a nickname?

JP – they are my initials.

What do you like to do off the court?

I like to watch sports, play video games, and hang out with my friends and family.

What’s your movie?

‘Despicable Me.’ It makes me laugh and I could watch it over and over again.

Who’s your favorite athlete?

Austin Rivers from Duke. I watched him play live in Orlando, Florida three years ago. He caught my eye with his highlight moves and aggressive play.

What’s your favorite sports team? (besides your own)

The Oklahoma City Thunder. The way the team plays an upbeat fast break tempo is fun to watch.

What’s your favorite sport?

Basketball. I have had the passion to play since fourth grade. At that point, I knew I wanted to play for the rest of my life.

Second favorite sport?

Football. I love watching the big hits and plays.

What are your future goals?

Attend a university to pursue my education and play basketball.

What advice do you have for young players?

Never stop working hard on the fundamentals of the game. Also, never give up on your dreams and stay true to yourself.

Tags: winter preview 2011-12, east ridge, sports, raptors, prep, updates