DEJA KELLY SAYS POINT GUARDS ARE LEADERS ON THE COURT
Collegiate basketball player Deja Kelly is starting her senior season while pursuing her master’s degree and checking off many personal goals off her list at the same time. With women’s basketball finally getting the much-deserved attention on all levels, we got the chance to catch up with Deja and learn more about her love for basketball, her plans for her final college season and much more!
FEATURE INTERVIEW:
When did your love for basketball begin?
I’ve been playing basketball for as long as I can remember. My mom was my first coach, and she really instilled the love of the game in me.
In your opinion, what are point-guards most unappreciated for?
We’re leaders on the court. We can orchestrate what’s going to happen and put the ball where it needs to be. I think people underestimate how hard our job is.
What made you transfer to the University of Oregon?
I enjoyed my time at UNC, I had a great coaching staff and teammates but with my additional eligibility I wanted to go to a new school where I could make an immediate impact, continue to get better on the court as well as continue my education and get my master’s degree. I’m excited to play in the Big Ten with Coach Kelly. The team has been great and I’m excited to see what we’re going to accomplish this season.
Outside of your team, what do you love about your current school?
I love the community. I think being able to interact with other people outside of my team and see how much they really enjoy not only women’s basketball, but the school and town in general is something I’m glad I’m a part of.
If you could play professionally for any WNBA team, what team would it be and why?
I always had a dream of playing professionally in the WNBA. Growing up I watched the San Antonio Silver Stars, they aren’t a team anymore, but I’d be happy to really play for any team in the league. I want a chance to compete at a high level and for a championship.
You’ve used your platform to bring awareness to the importance of investing in venture capital, private equity, and real estate. What drew you to this and what are a few things you’ve learned over the years?
I’m interested in building a life and legacy for myself outside of basketball and my partnerships and investments help me do that. Even at a young age, I’m able to build generational wealth for myself and my family and have ownership of companies I’ve always wanted to work with. It’s been great.
The biggest thing I’ve learned is that networking and relationships matter. How you communicate and interact with people matter so much when it’s time to get business done. It’s something that I pay close attention to when I have meetings now.
I’ve also learned and continue to learn how speak up for myself. It’s sometimes easy for your voice to get lost in big rooms but remembering that the things that I really want for myself are important and should be heard.
What are a few of your current favorite songs on your workout playlist?
Anything Drake, Nicki Minaj, and Cash Cobain!
Walk us through your curly hair routine.
I switch up often. But right now, I use a really good curl cream, then mousse, then curling gel in that order. Some days I diffuse, some days I just let it air dry. But I’ve been really adamant about taking care of my hair as of late, especially with season coming up and my hair will have to be in a ponytail or bun every day.
During the off-season, what are a few things you love to do to practice self-care?
Shop, eat at my favorite restaurants, pamper myself by getting my hair and nails done!
You recently purchased your first home. What are 3 tips you recommend to any first-time homeowners?
I think the first tip would be to enjoy the process. Yes, finding a home can be stressful, especially your first one, but it’s also a beautiful journey you’ll remember forever. 2. Do your research. There are so many growing communities, so just make sure you do your research to ensure you purchase a home in a safe, secure market. And 3. Smile! You just purchased your first home! It’s one of the greatest accomplishments in my opinion!
What are you most looking forward to in this upcoming school year?
Being in a new city, playing with my new teammates and finishing 1 year with my master’s degree.
For anyone reading this who would like to follow in your footsteps, what would you like to say to them?
Work hard, take risks and be yourself. Everything else will fall into place as it should.
TEAM CREDITS:
Editor-in-Chief: Prince Chenoa (@princechenoastudio)
Feature Editor: Taylor Winter Wilson (@taylorwinter)
Photographer: Savanna Ruedy (@savannarruedy)
Makeup Artist: Ghost (@ghost_artistry_)
Wardrobe Stylist: Nzinga Watts-Harper (@nzingawattsharper)
