UW-Milwaukee forward, Adrian Tigert, takes time out for a Q & A with the Horizon League

Feb. 2, 2006

What made you decide to attend University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee?
At the time I committed the head coach was Bo Ryan, who is now at Wisconsin. He was the main influence in my coming to Milwaukee.  Ironically, Coach Jeter was on that staff and had a hand in recruiting me.

What is the best aspect of being a part of UWM's basketball team?
[It would be] being able to experience things that other students don't like the travel, the camaraderie, etc.

What was it like participating in last season's Sweet Sixteen against Illinois in the NCAA Tournament?
Playing in the Sweet Sixteen was a great experience.  However, still being in the midst of my senior year, I don't think I will take time to reflect upon it until my career is over.

What are your most memorable games and/or moments as a Panther?
Last season we played at Hawaii in the BracketBuster.  We had a great time both on and off the court.

You suffered a knee injury at the end of your true freshman year.  How hard was it to recover from that, and how did you continue to help your team as a medical red-shirt?
After two major knee surgeries and a scope, it was 13 months from the day I got hurt until the day I was able to even jog.  I couldn't help the team from a physical standpoint, but I was just an extra set of eyes to help teammates with things they couldn't see from the court.

What are some of your goals heading into the post-season?
Our first goal is to win the regular season championship.  The next would be to win the conference tournament and an automatic bid to the NCAA tournament. After that, advancing in the tournament is our next goal.

What do you feel is the biggest accomplishment throughout your collegiate career, both athletically and in the classroom?
On the court, I would like to think my biggest accomplishments are yet to come. In the classroom, maintaining above a 3.0 with our busy schedule is something I am proud of.

What do you do, both individually and as a team, to prepare right before a game?
Individually I try and focus on the scout, and make sure I am physically prepared to battle.  I feel that preparation is not done the day of the game, but in the days heading up to the game.  I would say the same goes for the team.

Has it been beneficial to have your family close by, originally being from Oshkosh, WI?
Yes.  My parents come to every home game and a few road games.  Also, two of my three brothers live in Milwaukee which gives them a chance to catch most of my games.

Being also an excellent student, how hard has it been to juggle your academics along with practice and games the last few years?
Sometimes it makes it easier.  When you have a lot of things on your plate you tend to stay more focused.  Though it presents challenges, it is very rewarding.

You are currently pursuing a graduate degree in business after already earning your bachelor's degree in marketing in 2005.  What are your future plans after achieving your master's?
I am not really sure.  I just want to make sure that I have as strong a resume as possible.  If I was a freshman all over again, I would get my degree in education.

Who has had the biggest influence on your career?

My high school coach Steve Randall who passed away unexpectedly last October. He taught me far more than just about basketball, and I will never forget him.

What is your favorite Coach Jeter quote?
Oh man. There are a few, but the one that comes to mind is "true story".

What do you enjoy doing most in the off-season?
Having more time to myself.

If you could change one thing about your sport, what would that be?
No fouling out.

If you could compete in the Olympics in any sport, what would it be? (Not basketball!)
I have no idea. [I think] maybe snowboarding or one of the skiing events.

What TV show would you most like to appear on and why?
Who Wants to be a Millionaire.  I want to be a millionaire, and that may be my only shot.

What is your best non-athletic talent?
Sleeping.

What is the best/worst thing about living in Milwaukee?
The summers in Milwaukee are a lot of fun because of all of the things to do. The worst would have to be parking.  You can't park your car for more than 20 seconds without getting a ticket.

Where in the world would you like to travel to and why?
Everywhere.  There are only a few places I'd choose not to visit.  I think learning about other cultures is very important, and it helps you appreciate yours.

If you could be any reality TV star, who would it be and why?
The Bachelor, without a doubt.  [It's] the only way a guy can get away with dating 30 girls all at one time, and they're cool with it. I couldn't pass that up.

Who is the most impressive person you have ever met?
My parents

What is your "breakfast of champions?"
Cinnamon Toast Crunch

Who would you cast to play you in a movie?
Will Ferrell or Vince Vaughn

Which is your favorite professional sports team to watch? 
The Green Bay Packers.  I mean, come on, who doesn't?

What is your favorite holiday?
Christmas.  I can't wait for my first Christmas after I'm done with basketball so I can actually enjoy the full holiday season.

What would people find surprising about you?
I am very sarcastic, and a lot of times people take it the wrong way and think I'm mean, but I'm really not.  I'm much more easy-going than I seem.