Today, I sit down with one of New Mexico's top prospects in the state of New Mexico - Jayden Perez a guard for Onate High School in Las Cruces, New Mexico.
This is a Q&A between NMPreps.com site manager Joshua J Grine and Onate guard Jayden Perez. Through the past 8-years Grine has sat down with some of the top players and coaches in the state of New Mexico from coaches Saul Perez (Jayden's father) to Jim Murphy (Hope Christian). Also, players like Cullen Neal (Eldorado/UNM-St. Mary's) among many others.
One on One with Jayden
Grine: When did you start playing basketball?
Jayden Perez: I started playing basketball when I was seven years old. I initially hated it because I wasn't too coordinated. When I began to improve I really fell in love with the game.
Grine: Where did you get the passion to play this great game?
Perez: Growing up with my dad I was always around the game of basketball and he taught me that I could accomplish anything through hard work. That drove me to make sacrifices because I was always told they would pay off.
Grine: With your dad being a state champion head coach, what is that like?
Perez: It's been a huge blessing! Players pay to have trainers and coaches skill them but I had mine in my own house. And he was willing to go to any extent to help me accomplish what I wanted to. He truly knows me better than anybody.
Grine: Who are some of your big influences?
Perez: My parents (Saul and Vanessa Perez) have always had the biggest influence on me. I continue to learn from them just by watching how they live their lives. I owe them everything! My mom has taught me so many things outside of basketball and has really been my rock! Coach Lee and Coach Jay from my AAU team, Fusion, have also had a huge influence on me. They gave me amazing opportunities that really opened up the door for me to get to the next level.
Grine: What was the determining factor in choosing SDSU?
Perez: The coaching staff was definitely the thing that drew me most to SDSU. I wanted to play for genuine people that I know will take care of me. They already feel like family. Knowing I'll be getting a quality college education, playing in Viejas Arena and living in San Diego was a huge win too!
Grine: Are you looking forward to games in Albuquerque against conference opponent UNM?
Perez: Yes, it'll always be nice to come back to my home state!
Rapid Fire
Favorite players: Kobe Bryant and Skylar Diggins
Favorite number: My number growing up has always been #5! In college I will wear 15 for a change!
Favorite gym you’ve played in: Onate, our home gym because that is where I've trained since I was 9! I feel most at home there.
What are you looking forward to this season? I'm looking forward to enjoying my senior year and truly taking in every moment!
Thank you Jayden for taking time to share your story with us! Best of luck this season and in your future at San Diego State University.
