Q-and-A with Lindsay Richards

Jan. 16, 2004

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hawkeyesports.com visited recently with sophomore guard Lindsay Richards from Barrington, IL. Here’s a piece of that conversation.

Do you have any pre-game rituals or superstitions?
“Nothing too extreme. During the national anthem when we are standing in line out on the court, I say a little prayer.”

If you could play at one arena anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
“Originally, I always wanted to play at Madison Square Garden, but I got to play there two years ago. My second choice would be the Fleet Center in Boston.”

How would you describe yourself on the court? Off the court?
“On the court, I think I am pretty intense and focused. Off the court, I am very outgoing and kind of laid back. I think I am pretty talkative both on and off the court, so it is kind of a similarity.”

While on the road, how do you like to spend your free time?
“I like to relax, listen to music and watch TV. That is something that we don’t get to do too often during the school year and when we’re at home because we have busy schedules — so it’s nice.”

“If I wasn’t playing basketball, I’d want to compete in gymnastics because I used to do that when I was little. I did all of the events and every once in awhile I kind of miss it.”
Sophomore Lindsay Richards

When you were little, who did you pretend to be when you were shooting hoops in your driveway?
“My dad. My parents both played basketball at the University of Pittsburgh. They have been big influences ever since I was little. My dad has pretty much taught me everything I know about the game, so I would have to say him because he has been my role model for me.”

What is something that few people know about you?
“When I was little I used to do ballet.”

What is your worst fear?
“Disappointment and failure.”

If you weren’t playing basketball, what other sport would you want to be a star in?
“I would have to say gymnastics because I used to do that when I was little. I did all of the events and every once in awhile I kind of miss it.”

What is the best part about being a student-athlete at Iowa? The worst part?
“The best part… I think the support from your community and the fans is awesome. Since there are no pro teams, the college athletics attracts a lot of people and they are very supportive and outgoing. It’s nice to know there is a strong group of people that believe in you. The downfall is the time. There is a lot of time devoted to basketball, so there isn’t a lot of time for other things. But, in the end, I think it’s worth it.”

What is the best advice you’ve ever been given?
“Be true to yourself and do the best that you can do.”

If you could make a guest appearance on a current TV show, which one would it be and why?
“I wanted to say Will & Grace but Johanna already said that earlier this year and I would feel bad saying that. The Sharon Osbourne Show. I think it would be cool to talk with her. It seems like a fun atmosphere and it would be neat to meet the people that you see on TV all the time.”