Tyler Phillips is a senior on the Niles boys basketball team.

 

What has been one of your greatest accomplishments as an athlete?

TP: Beating a ranked Benton Harbor at home last year was a bright spot. Iced the game with six straight free throws.

What has been one of your biggest disappointments as an athlete?

TP: Nothing has really been a disappointment. Everything I’ve went through has made me who I am today.

What has been a hardship in your life?

TP: I’ve never been through something I would consider a hardship. People out there have it a lot worse. I have lived a blessed life.

Who is a “hero” in your life and why?

TP: My father. He’s been my coach in sports and life since I could talk and walk.

When are you the most nervous while you are competing?

TP: I don’t really get nervous these days. It’s just another day at the office.

Describe an embarrassing athletic moment.

TP: Freshman year when I played baseball a bird flying overhead had an accident all over my jersey during warm-ups before playing Penn.

How do you tend to workout/train when by yourself?

TP: I work hard and smart. That’s the only way to get better.

What other sport would you like to compete in if you were not playing yours?

TP: I’ve always wanted to play hockey.

Who would you say is your “biggest fan?” Why?

TP: Collectively, the Niles Nightmare. I love all of them that come to support.

How would you give away $50,000?

TP: I’d help my parents pay off bills.

If you could be the head coach of a team for a year, what team would you choose?

TP: It would be pretty cool to coach the Lakers this year before Kobe retires. He’s the G.O.A.T. and we’ll never see a player like him again.

If I did not play sports, I would…?

TP: Probably read a lot more and play a lot more video games.

What is the most challenging thing for you to do in your sport?

TP: Taking a charge is kind of difficult because I’m usually a lot bigger than the guy running at me.

If you could change one rule about your sport, what would it be?

TP: The on-ball defense rules with your hands are getting really soft. I’d love to change that.

What is the best compliment you have ever received?

TP: That I’m the hardest worker.

What was the scariest thing you have had to do? Are you glad you did it?

TP: Killing a grizzly bear with my bare hands was pretty nerve wracking. I’m glad I prevailed as the victor.

What was the last thing you saw someone do that really impressed you?

TP: When my man Gavin (Rasler) snapped off for 39 at our place.

What is your favorite hobby? Why?

TP: Other than basketball, I really like video games. I’ve played them since I was a little kid.

Choose one word to describe yourself:

TP: Resilient.