Meet Mitchell Opurum

Meet Basketball Player Mitchell Opurum

Mitchell Opurum has been playing basketball since he has seven years old. He is currently the captain of Robert Gordon College basketball team and also plays for both U16 and U18's for the newly formed Aberdeen Basketball Club (ABC).

Mitchell also played for the Scotland National U14 team last year, and has been selected as part of U17 pool of players for the national team.

What inspired you to take up your sport?

My childhood coach at Beacon Basketball Club inspired me to pick interest and I just love watching the game.

Which club did you start your sporting journey with?

Beacon Basketball Club, Bucksburn.

What has been your biggest challenge in your sporting journey, and how did you overcome this?

My biggest challenge is managing high level basketball commitments and keeping on top of my school work. Thankfully, my school helped me a lot to adapt and manage my time better.

What are your goals for the coming year?

To make the starting five for Scotland U17 national team for up coming games.

What does your training programme involve, and does this impact on other areas of your life?

I attend school training on Mondays, club trainings on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, and sometimes on Saturdays. This impacts on my school work sometimes, but I have been able to manage this very well.

What skills do you have that have helped you succeed in your sport?

Resilience and ability to bounce back quickly from set backs.

How many competitions do you plan to compete in?

4 - School tournament, national U16 Div 1 league, national U18 Div 1 league, and local Grampian U16 and U18 tournaments.

How do you deal with setbacks in your sport, whilst training or competing?

I focus a lot on my goal of playing at the highest level in my sports, and remembering that every setback is a step towards achieving my goal.

Who is your biggest inspiration from the world of sport?

Steph Curry - American Basketball player.

What is your greatest achievement in your sport?

Playing with the Scotland U14 national team last year during the tri nation tournament featuring England and Wales.

What helps you to stay motivated and focussed during your training?

The desire to help my team win and perfect my game at every opportunity.

What advice would you give to others just starting out in any sport?

Trust the process, keep working hard and never give up.

How will your Talented Athlete Pass help you develop and hone your skills as an athlete?

Strength and conditioning is key to top performance in basketball, and the Athlete Pass will help achieve this.

Is there anywhere people could find more information about your upcoming sporting activity? (Facebook, Website / Twitter)

Follow Aberdeen Basketball Club on social media.