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What did you think when you heard they wanted to put Uncle Drew on the big screen?

Our writer (Jay Longino) did a great job in making sure we stayed authentic in our storytelling and gave the film some emotionally-driven scenes to make sure that the arc of the movie was understood and there were life lessons. It’s really oriented around friends and family, and it’s been great to see it evolve into this.

Why do you think that character has been such a hit for you?

It’s an alternative personality. On one hand, I’m a 26-year-old still-evolving man, and on the other here’s this older man who takes on some of that, but he’s doing it with a lot of conviction, grace and wisdom from living life. The reception Uncle Drew has gotten over time has been great to be a part of.

What was it like to work with pro ballers like Shaquille O’Neal, Reggie Miller, Chris Webber, Nate Robinson and Lisa Leslie?

I liked picking their brain about how the game has changed from their time to my time now. They offer not only knowledge about the game of basketball, but the game of life as well.

Something Drew says multiple times in the movie is, ‘You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.’ How have you dealt with adversity in your own life?

I believe in the art of preparation for the unknown as best you can. You’re going to have to deal with a lot in life and being able to pick yourself back up again and really truck on is important. Along with that, you need to be aware of what it took to get to the place you’re in. Life is tough. I don’t just limit that to basketball. Missing shots is going to happen. I would love to play well in front of millions of people every night, but it just won’t happen. That strive for perfection is very maniacal and it can be lonely. So the time where you’re preparing, that’s your connection to yourself and also being able to deal with things if you fail.