Oct. 30, 2013

COLUMBIA, S.C. – South Carolina freshman forward Demetrius Henry sat down with GamecocksOnline.com recently for our web series in conjunction with Spurs and Feathers, “Starting Five With Demetrius Henry.” The series will highlight a different member of the Gamecock men’s basketball team with each edition. A native of Florida, Henry spoke on his abilities on both the offensive and defensive ends of the court, and why he models his game after one of the top big men in the NBA.

Q: Having played your high school basketball in South Florida, what made you decide to sign with the Gamecocks?
A: To help rebuild the program and because I believe in what Coach Martin is building at South Carolina. Also because it is a great school.

Q: You have noted that Kevin Garnett is your favorite player and you wear 21 for that reason. Is that who you model your game after the most?
A: Yes, I have been watching Kevin Garnett since I was younger and I model my game after his. Ever since I started watching him play that is how I wanted to play because of his tenacity and his skill set.

Q: You obviously bring size to the post, but how do you see yourself as a basketball player? What can Gamecock fans expect to see from you on the court?
A: Besides my offensive game, my defensive game; blocking shots, challenging shots at the rim and my tenacity.

Q: You averaged 18 points, 12 rebounds and three blocks per game last year for Faith Baptist Christian. Looks like you value every part of the game. Do you feel you are an asset to the team both offensively and defensively?
A: My coaches have always pushed me on both sides of the court so I always work to be good on both ends of the floor. I feel some of my best assets on the court are my post presence and defensive presence.

Q: What aspect of your game are you working on the most as you prepare for your freshman season to get underway?
A: Definitely my strength, that is number one. The SEC is a physical league and college basketball is physical, so that is what I have been working on the most.

Continue to visit GamecocksOnline.com for more of the web series “Starting Five,” throughout the preseason. For season ticket information, including the new reduced lower level prices, fans should visit www.GamecocksOnline.com/Tickets, or call 1-800-4SC-FANS.