Andrew Hunter: Basketball Beyond Borders

16 November 2011 No Comments

By Candice Bromfield

Andrew Hunter

Canadians overseas keep soaring to new heights and European Basketball League superstar Andrew Hunter is no exception. The last of four children in the Hunter family, Andrew was born to proud Jamaican parents, Isaac and Yvonne Hunter, in Toronto, Ontario. At age 4, he moved to Jamaica where he quickly got acclimatized to his new home. It was during his years of living in Jamaica that the reserved and quiet young star discovered his unwavering love and appreciation for basketball.

At what age did you discover that you liked basketball?

Hunter: I fell in love with the game at a very young age, but I would have to say when I was 7 years old, I solidified my passion and appreciation for it. I remember always having a basketball in hand; (smiling) and I remember as a little boy always drawing basketballs in my colouring books.

A few years later, Andrew moved back to Toronto where he attended Jean Vanier Catholic Secondary School, maintaining a perfect balance between basketball and excellent grades. From an early age, Hunter understood the vital importance of a good solid education; a unique trait that enabled the 6’6 dynamo to fast-track to university on a full athletic scholarship at the tender age of 16.

Where did you attend University and what did you pursue?

Hunter: I attended Sacred Heart University in Connecticut and pursued a Bachelor of Science Degree, majoring in Computer Science.

What would you say was the biggest challenge you experienced during your university years?

Hunter: Good question! Being away from my family was a new experience for me; however, it was something I had to get used to fairly quickly. Also, finding the perfect balance between academia and basketball was something that posed a challenge for me. With a lot of hard work I was able to accumulate over 1000 career points, while maintaining a high grade point average (GPA).

Very impressive! Any regrets with your field of study?

Hunter: Absolutely none! I always had a strong interest in computer technology and though it was a very difficult major, I openly embraced the challenge.

After graduating, Andrew began his illustrious career where he entered the European Basketball League in 2002. He was drafted to his first professional team in Portugal. His basketball career would have him explore almost 40 countries in three different continents, learning various cultures and languages. Since then, Hunter has played in 12 countries, including France, Germany, Hungary, China, Spain, Finland, Switzerland, Austria, Mexico and Venezuela to name a few.

Besides being drafted into a professional basketball league, what would you say is another accomplishment for you?

Hunter: I’ve had quite a bit of accomplishments throughout my career. To begin, I’ve been regarded as a top defender in every league in which I’ve has played. I’ve always demonstrated growth throughout my career and have consistently played at the highest level. I would also have to include the many youths with whom I have interacted with and inspired throughout my professional career.

An advocate of giving back to the community, Andrew has been volunteering from a young age in a variety of settings. Most notably, he has worked extensively with youths in promoting literacy with several non-profit organizations, and has visited students in several schools to share his international athletic experiences in basketball.

I’m sure when you were young you got some solid advice from others around you. What’s your advice to youths?

Hunter: I often times tell youths to make their education a priority. Without a solid education it is almost impossible to have a successful future. In terms of basketball, I tell youths to dedicate themselves to the game, don’t focus too much on the “glitz and glamour” side. Yes! That side is important, but I encourage them to hone their skill and perfect their craft. Finally, I would say, basketball is a beautiful game, so enjoy it. Have fun, because ultimately it’s a game.

Andrew has just returned home from completing his season in Venezuela. Currently, he is embarking on a few exciting projects and plans on re-entering the European Basketball League in the near future. There he will juggle playing basketball, while pursuing his Masters of Business Administration (MBA). Andrew also enjoys modeling, acting, reading, listening to music and watching movies.

Your plate seems very full. Tell me, where do you draw your inspiration from?

Hunter: I draw my inspiration from my family members. I can look at all of them and find characteristics that I admire. For example, my parents are very hard-working, ambitious and insightful people. My sister is an extremely resourceful business professional and my brothers are very witty, down to earth hard-working men. In fact my brothers were the ones who introduced me to basketball. So my family is where I draw my inspiration and as the “baby” I feel extremely blessed to be a part of such a wholesome family.

What will life after basketball be like for you?

Hunter: I actually plan on returning back home to Toronto to use my solid years of basketball experience, coupled with my extensive educational training to form a business of my own.

A true entrepreneur at heart, he doesn’t see it any other way! Hunter also plans on continuing to give back to his community, by working with youths through the sport of basketball. He aspires to enable them to realize their full potential and success, through personal development programs.

He is destined to leave a legacy behind, he is a true embodiment of athletics and academia, he is “The Drive from Within,” he is Andrew Hunter.

Follow Andrew on Twitter @Andrew Hunter 21

Candice Bromfield is an: On-Air Personality at G98.7 FM (Toronto’s urban radio station), Award- Winning Communications Expert, News/Lifestyle Writer, Event Host, Pageant Runner-Up and Public Servant. Follow Candice @CandyBromfield