Name: Maygen Naassan
Hometown: Ashrafiye, Beirut
Height: 6 Feet
Position: Shooting Guard/Small Forward
High School: Brummana High School
Graduation Class: 2024
Status: Uncommitted
Maygen Naassan (Nah·san) is a 6-Foot Guard from Ashrafiye, Beirut, Lebanon. She is a junior at Brummana High School, and was a part of Lebanon's national team in FIBA's U16 Women's Asian Championship tournament this past summer. Naassan additionally plays for the Champs Club of Lebanon. I caught up with the Lebanese prospect in an interview on the Middle Eastern basketball scene and preparation for the upcoming season.
Maygen Naassan Interview
When did you first start playing basketball?
“I started playing basketball mid 2018.”
Describe your game from a skill standpoint?
“I am good in finishing under the basket, and love playing defense.”
How was life growing up in Lebanon?
“Before hyperinflation happened in Lebanon, 2019 life was less stressful and better. Unfortunately, now it is really hard living here, and really stressful. Nevertheless, my family and I are managing to enjoy our life as much as we can.”
The Middle Eastern basketball scene has been growing the last few years. From international play to now having continental basketball players in the NBA. But from your point of view, how’s your experience been hoopin’ in Lebanon?
"Playing basketball in Lebanon is one of the best privileges I can ever have. In this past summer, I traveled to Jordan to represent my country in the U16 Women's FIBA Asia Cup. It was an experience I will never forget because there were so many talented and dedicated girls who played really well. I also learned so much especially since I played against players from many different countries such as Iran, Philippines and Kazakhstan. I was also given the chance to train with two Lebanese goats, Fadi El Khatib and Ali Haidar. Both have taught me so much about the game, and helped me improve as a player. But, one thing I love is that we have some of the best players in Asia. For example, Shada Nasr, Aida Bakhos and Rebecca Akl. Being able to watch and learn from these pros is simply amazing."
How was your sophomore season?
"It was really good. I was one of the rookies on the team, as it was my first season in me playing Division 1. As a team, we did well since it was the first year that Champs club reached a division one level. I personally was a bit nervous the first game, but still managed to be top scorer."
You’re still at a very early stage of your career. What kinds of things are you doing to make yourself the best player you can be?
"I train every day for around 4 hours. At first, I start with shooting, and hit around 20 mid range shots per spot. 7 spots takes me around 15 minutes. Next, I shoot free throws, then 3's then go back to free throws again. After shooting, I do finishes under the basket. After my finishes, I do dribbles and work a lot on my betweens, crosses, and behind the backs on the move. I also do private training workouts where I work on game situation skills, vision and muscle building for an hour and 30 every 2 days. Lastly, I finish my workout with 15 minutes of skipping rope."
Which basketball player do you look up to the most and why?
"I mostly look up to Kobe Bryant. May his soul rest in peace. He is my idol because he loved the game more than anyone, and was the most dedicated player I have ever seen in my life. He simply was and will always be a basktball LEGEND."
Who do you look up to as a role models?
"My role models are my parents and older brother, Nick. These 3 are the only reason I am, where I am. They always had my back no matter what, and helped me every time I needed them. They are my backbone and hope that I can be as brave, smart, caring and loving as my brother and parents in the future."
As you’re now at the age where you’re starting to look for college opportunities, what do you ideally look for in a college?
"When looking for colleges, I mostly see where they stand academically, and basketball wise. I would love to be accepted to ivy league colleges in the future, which is why my grades mean a lot to me in high school. I also check what level their basketball team is since my plan in life is to go pro in basketball and God willing play in the NCAA. Then, hopefully later on to WNBA."
I know it is still very early, but what are you looking forward to this upcoming season?
"I'm looking forward to play, learn from everyone around me, and against this upcoming season."
Thank you for taking the time to talk with me this morning. Do you have any words of encouragement or motivation for people? Any last words?
“I wanna tell everyone that no matter where you are in the world, no matter your situation is God will always have your back. Everything always happens for a reason, and simply never give up. It takes a lot of sacrifices, dedication, tears, sweat and time to improve in the game of basketball. Keep your head up, and never lose your passion. Always stay humble!”
Maygen Naassan at the FIBA's U16 Women's Asian Championships | Shot by @fibaasiacupwomen
Maygen Naassan - Sophomore Season Highlights (Champs Club Lebanon)
IG @maygennaassan
Contact: Maygenaassan@gmail.com
Contact Tyreese Smith
Instagram: http://instagram.com/rpninternational
Twitter: https://twitter.com/tyreesesmithh
Email: pwdculturemedia@gmail.com
Comments