Q+A with Byron Wesley: ‘There’s always somebody out there working harder’

Byron Wesley, a graduate transfer from USC, has made a seamless transition in his lone season at Gonzaga. The 6-foot-4 Wesley averages 10.8 points, 4.9 rebounds and 2.4 assists. He’s third on the team in scoring, fourth in rebounding and second in assists. He left USC in hopes of finding a winning program that plays in the NCAA tournament and he appears to have found both at Gonzaga.

But there’s more to Wesley than basketball. The senior wing talks music, cooking and, of course, Harry Potter.

Q: If you could change places with someone famous, who would it be and why?

A: I would say either Kobe (Bryant) or Tiger Woods. Kobe’s been my favorite player since I was younger. Golf, it’s just such a relaxing sport. Tiger can play it for so long and he’s made so much money off it. I’ve golfed a couple times.

Q: Surprising hobby or habit?

A: I’m a big Harry Potter fan. I used to read the books when I was younger. I always went to see the movie on the first day it came out with my parents. No, I never dressed up.

Q: What’s the go-to song you listen to before a game?

A: Hit-Boy, he’s a rapper from the area I’m from (in the Los Angeles area), and the song is called “Grindin’ My Whole Life.” I relate to him because he’s from the same area and he talks about the same things.

Q: Best advice you’ve ever received?

A: From my dad, I can’t remember exactly when or the quote exactly. He was just talking about working hard, and that there’s always somebody out there working harder. So whenever I might get lazy or I don’t feel like doing something I always have that in my mind. Just always try to push myself and better myself.

Q: Can you cook?

A: I can cook the basics. My mom is a really good cook and I picked up a few things from her but I wouldn’t say I’m a good cook. I can make some breakfast, pancakes, French toast. Dinner’s a little shaky, some pasta, spaghetti. Just the basics.