There are so many attributes that define a basketball player. Whether size, shooting, defense, rebounding, or various other traits, there are several things coaches desire and choose to pursue. However, a player’s mentality is arguably as significant as anything. Certain players are simply wired different, and that can usually be seen on the court. Take Alex Pissis, for example. He’s a new name to North Carolina and someone who should rapidly become a priority for college coaches.
Upon our first viewing at our Hoopstate Fall League a few weeks ago, it was impossible to ignore everything he showcased as a focal point with Winston-Salem Christian. Following the event, we stated, “Arguably the most enthralling prospect on display, Alex Pissis will become a real priority for coaches over the coming months. The fact that he only holds an Arkansas State offer is legitimately absurd. Pissis is an absolute monster on the court. He’s unbelievably physical with a game-changing motor, defensive presence, and nose for the ball. Pissis suffocates opposing ball-handlers until they decide to give up or throw it away. He battles for extra possessions, dives for every loose ball, and simply outworks everyone on both ends of the floor. While the effort, defense, rebounding, and willingness to do the little things are already quite appealing, Pissis offers so much more. He also featured a polished, well-rounded offensive attack with a strong blend of playmaking, shooting, and finishes at the rim. It’s difficult to envision coaches watching him play and walking away feeling anything other than captivated. Pissis is a must-see prospect for Division I coaches.”
Since then, there has been no real traction within his recruitment. This begs the question: what are coaches not seeing? He currently holds a lone Arkansas State offer, but that feels very likely to change over the coming months. We interviewed Pissis to gather a deeper understanding of his identity, goals, and overall journey.
JB: Talk about who you are as a player; describe your game and what you aim to do on the court.
AP: My game is kinda simple. I knock down my shots and get to the hole when I want to. I really am a three-level scorer, and I have a motor that makes my teammates match my energy on the defensive end.
JB: Coming from France and playing internationally, speak about your experiences back home and how the game differs in America.
AP: I have been in the United States for 4 years now and moved 3 times. Before that, I was playing in France. The style of play is really different everywhere I have been, especially when I first came to the States. It was a little difficult for me to play my game but after a couple of months, I was able to get acclimated to the culture and play my game.
JB: What areas are you looking to improve going forward?
AP: I am looking to get better in my shooting and on my handles.
JB: What are you looking for in a college program?
AP: In a college program, I am looking for somewhere where I am going to be able to be on the court and get some playing time because the way to get better is to be on the court and play against guys that I have been in college for a while, somewhere I am going be able to get better every day and where the coaches are going to push me every day.