Editor's Note: This is the first of an eight-part series that analyzes the 2010-11 Citadel basketball class. This week we will focus on James Island, S.C. native and forward CJ Bray. Next week will be an in-depth look at San Antonio, Texas native Marshall Harris.
Charleston, S.C.— In the fall, the 2011-12 Citadel basketball season will debut eight freshman as part of head coach Chuck Driesell's first recruiting class. Driesell's first class is comprised of student-athletes from seven different states, including Michigan, New Mexico, North Carolina (2), Texas and Virginia.
QUICK FACTS
Name: Christopher "C.J." Donald Bray, Jr.
Birthplace: Atlanta, Georgia
High School: James Island Charter High School, Charleston, SC
Q & A with CJ Bray
Q: What is the biggest highlight of your basketball career to this point?
Bray: "My biggest highlight so far is having the opportunity to build great friendships with my high school teammates and really understanding how to work hard together to reach success."
Q: What was your familiarity with The Citadel before making your decision to sign?
Bray: "I was not familiar with The Citadel until I moved to Charleston in 2006. I now live about five miles from the campus. I immediately became aware of the difficulty and challenges associated with being a Citadel Cadet, but also the opportunities and resources afforded those with a Citadel education and degree. I know many cadets and former cadets from my high school, church, and neighborhood. They include my dentist, insurance provider, doctor, lawyer and many others who are all former cadets."
Q: List some goals that you have for the upcoming 2011-12 season.
Bray: "My main goal is to work hard and make a big contribution to Coach Driesell's growing program. Most important is to win the Southern Conference and earn a trip to the NCAA tournament."
Q: What was your knowledge of head coach Chuck Driesell before making your decision to attend The Citadel?
Bray: "I met Coach Driesell last summer at a high school team camp at The Citadel. I did not know much about him other than being an assistant coach at Maryland. I have had several opportunities to get to know Coach Driesell since that day and have grown to respect him as a person and coach. I also share the same respect for his coaching staff and am honored to have the opportunity to play for them."
Q: Name some personal and team accomplishments that you have made during your high school playing career. (ex: Most Valuable player, State Championship, All-Time Leading scorer, etc.)
Bray: "I was the MVP in both my junior and senior year, named All-Region junior and senior years, earned All-State honors during my senior year and played in the North Carolina-South Carolina All-Star game at Myrtle Beach. I also received a nomination for the McDonald's All-America team."
Q: What is your intended major at The Citadel and how did you reach this decision?
Bray: "I am undecided, but want to pursue a career in coaching."
Q: What is your earliest basketball memory? (ex: playing in the backyard, pick-up games, summer camp experiences, etc.)
Bray: "I scored 30 points in a little league all-star game and hit a half-court shot at the buzzer. My parents have also told me that I received a Little Tikes basketball goal for my first birthday and would shoot baskets for hours."
Q: In the recruiting process what stood out to you about The Citadel?
Bray: "The opportunity to play under Coach Driesell and his staff, while being part of a new program with high hopes for a successful college career were key for me. I also look forward to accepting the challenges The Citadel has to offer and anticipate future success as a result of The Citadel experience."
"Fun Facts"
Favorite TV Show: Prison Break
Favorite Movie: Friday Night Lights and/or Black Hawk Down
Most Famous Person I've met: Jim Carrey
Dream Job: Head Coach with a great college program
One thing I wish I were better at: Quickness, but I'm working on it!
