Interview Questions

Interview #1 (Coach Gerber)
1) Q: How many years have you been coaching Lightning basketball?

A: 9 yrs. as head coach, 2 yrs. as assistant.

2) Q: Which teams will put up the toughest test in your section?

A: Apple Valley, Lakeville South

3) Q: How would you rate this year's team compared to past seasons?

A: Cannot compare simply by record. This team has had to battle through a lot of adversity, changing lineups, etc. They have talent, but more importantly, they have strong leadership, unselfishness, coachability, and great character.

4) Q: What will your team work on in the practices leading up to sections?

A: Defense, opponents' top players/plays, and execution.

5) Q: What will be your team's key to success in the playoffs?

A: Free throws, rebounding and turnovers. Whoever wins in those three categories will win the games.



Interview #2 (Captain Karl Otto)
1) Q: When and why did you start playing basketball?

A:I got a Little Tikes hoop when I was three and have loved it since!

2) Q: What is the team's record so far?

A: 14-11

3) Q: As a captain, how do you help prepare your team for the section playoffs?

A: Keep working harder in practice and make sure every one's having fun!

4) Q: What is one of your team's greatest strengths?

A: Our depth and flexibility. Nobody can matchup with us! And our lockeroom bonding.

5) Q: What has been the most memorable part of the season thus far?

A: Our win over EP who was 1st in state.

Interview #3 (Captain Vinard Birch)
1) Q: When and why did you start playing basketball?

A:I started playing when I was little, like 5, because I couldn't afford to play hockey because it was too pricey.

2) Q: As one of the most experienced players on the team, how do you get your team focused for the playoffs?

A: We just work hard, and listen to "No Ceilings" (Lil' Wayne mix tape).

3) Q: What is one reason why your team will make it to the state tournament?

A: Because we're very talented and plat together. Also, we have a lot of depth in our bench.

4) Q: What is the main thing that you need to work on in practice to prepare for playoffs?

A: We need to work on our defense and get better with our plays.

5) Q: What has been the most memorable part of the season thus far?

A: Beating the number one team at the time (Eden Prairie).