With football in full swing, basketball practices for our New Castle Hurricanes have officially begun. Since the season tip-off is only a few months away, I decided to sit down with Ralphie Blundo and ask him a few questions. Ralphie is a sophomore on the Varsity basketball team and the son of Coach Ralph Blundo.

Q: How are you feeling about the upcoming basketball season?

A: I have the same expectations every year, get a WPIAL Championship.

Q: What is it like playing for your dad?

A: Some people may think it is rough, but I was born into the program and it’s the same for me as every other player.

Q: When and why did you start playing basketball?

A: I was 3 and I was born into it because of my dad.

Q: Who are you closest to on the team?

A: Kyrell Harris. I’ve known him since I was young and we have just always been like brothers. But Jonathan Anderson is a close second because he grew up with the program too because of his brother so we were together a lot.

Q: How do you keep yourself motivated before and during games?

A: I keep the same mindset my dad taught me. Having a community like New Castle’s helps a lot too.

Q: Who is your biggest inspiration and why?

A: My dad. I admire his character and passion a lot.

Q: What is your personal goal for the season?

A: I would like to get on the All-Section team.

Q:  If you could play for any professional team, who would you play for and why?

A: Golden State Warriors because the attention is always on Steph Curry so it would give me more opportunities.

Q: What is the best advice you received from an upperclassman?

A: My dad’s former player Anthony Richards told me to just always focus on working to get better.

Q: Although you are only a sophomore, have any colleges caught your eye?

A: My dream colleges are Pitt and Duke.

Q: Finally, where is your favorite place to have a team meal?

A: Definitely Edward’s.

Thanks for the interview Ralphie! Good luck with this upcoming season! We will keep you posted on the Hurricane Basketball schedule, rosters, and standings.