Ben Purser - Hawks Player Profile

Captain of the men’s team, Ben Purser, is all about hard-nosed, no frills basketball. He’s a very tough player and his unrelenting style of play makes him a true asset to the Hawks team.

Age: 23

Nickname: 

Purse, Benny

Work/Study:

Currently studying a combined Law/Commerce degree at UWA

Why basketball? 

As a kid I grew up at a time where Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls were in full flight and the Wildcats were massive in Perth. As I got older I played a variety of sports but was drawn to basketball as I loved the 'mental' aspect of the game and how multifaceted/multi skilled it is. Great athletes do not necessarily make great basketball players (See AJ Majstrovich lol!)  

How many years have you been playing?

Since I was 5 (18 yrs). This is my 6th season of SBL with the Hawks. 

How have you found the season so far?

I can't be happier with the season to date. We have a fantastic bunch of guys in this years group who are have all bought in to the system and are 100% committed to improving their game and winning a championship. Shawn Dennis has brought an increased level of professionalism to the club this year and has helped us reach and maintain higher standards in the way we train and compete during games. Our growth as a group this year has been very rewarding for me. 

Favourite players/inspirational people?

Michael Jordan - his competitiveness and determination to be the best was inspirational to me as a kid.

Kevin Lisch - Such a great role model and a talented player. 

I have many others but will leave it at that! 

Favourite moment/moments playing:

Winning bronze and silver medals at Australian Junior National Championships 

Getting to two SBL grand finals despite being relative underdogs in both seasons

Being involved in Game 2 of last years NBL championship series where Shawn Redhage had a big time block to seal the victory!

Three things you're good at other than basketball?

1. Other Sports (football, cricket, baseball)

2. Photoshop/graphic design

3. Arguing (ask my girlfriend, Sara, ... I like to call it 'debating')

Name 8 of your favourite things you couldn't live without:

Family, friends, the internet, television, sports, good food, my phone, Packed to the Rafters 

If you could hang out with any 5 people in the world, who would they be?

Michael Jordan, Barack Obama, Stephen Hawking, Beyonce, LeBron James  

Favourite quote/saying/motto?

"We see" and "most" 

Anything else you'd like to add?

Looking forward to the continued growth of our team and club this season. Thanks to all who have come down to support... Go Hawks! 

 

 

Articles : Lani Munnee

Photos:  Clare Chappell & Sebastian Komatsu