The NBL Weekend Takeover for 19/20 January will see Reading Rockets U18 Women take the reins of the NBL Instagram story as they head to Essex on Saturday for the U18 Women's National Cup Final.
We caught up with the Rockets' Saffie Jarju of their takeover weekend, in our latest Player Spotlight feature.
PLAYER SPOTLIGHT
Name: Saffie Jarju
Team: Reading Rockets U18 Women
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I am 17 years-old in year 13 studying Psychology, PE and Biology. When I leave school I want to study Criminology with Psychology and play basketball.
What brought you to the NBL in the first place?
Before playing NBL I just was playing in my school, but I wanted to improve, be better and compete against the best teams in the country, so I decided to play NBL with Reading Rockets
What was your first impression of the NBL? How has that changed?
My first impression was that the NBL was going to be tough and higher intensity as I knew we were playing against the top teams in the country. Once we started top play and compete against the teams, I felt that we weren't so nervous and had more confidence playing as a team and having positive attitude of winning the games
What was your biggest challenge?
I would say my biggest challenge playing is my confidence. There have been times where I doubt my ability in basketball and what I am capable of.
What changes have you noticed in yourself since joining the NBL?
I have been more confident in myself and make better decisions in a game I feel I read the game situation better
What are you working on right now, what are your current goals?
I am working on my defence and rebound. My goal to have at least 5 defensive rebounds d have 2 steals per game.
What is your favourite NBL memory?
My favourite memory in the NBL is when we won in the semi finals and when we finished we all had such positive energy and literally were all proud of each other especially as a team
What advice would you give someone who is just getting started in basketball?
My advice would be to keep working hard and no matter what don't give up because once you get past the obstacles in your basketball career you will have more of a clear path towards being a successful player
What do you like to do outside of basketball?
I like to socialise a lot with my friends and family, and do outdoor activities such as rock climbing and walking my dog
Finally, who is your favourite British basketball player and why?
My favourite British Basketball player is Danny Carter because when he makes a mistake on court, he forgets about it and moves onto the next play
You can follow Saffie's progress this weekend when Reading Rockets takeover the NBL Instagram story!
