Interview by Violetta Nicola
Photography by Ryan West
Styling by Vincent Weathersby
Glam by Emily Lara
Rae Burrell is an American professional basketball player for the Los Angeles Sparks of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA). She played college basketball for the Tennessee Volunteers after attending Liberty High School in Henderson, Nevada, where she was named the Las Vegas Review-Journal Best of Nevada Preps Female Athlete of the Year in 2018.
Can you share your journey into basketball? What first inspired you to start playing the Sport?
A lot of people don’t know this about me, but basketball was actually my second sport that I loved growing up. I thought soccer would be my sport of choice and could potentially take me to college, maybe beyond, but then basketball came into play. I remember at the age of six picking up a basketball and my brother and I were always competitive with one another, especially when it came to sports. I always wanted to be involved, if it was run pick up with him or just run around, I wanted to prove that I could beat him. When I was in grade school, I played in an all-boys tournament and did pretty good, had a steal, shot a three-pointer and made it; I was able to run with the boys. My family has always told me I have a natural ability to play basketball and by the time I was a sophomore in high school, I decided that basketball would be my future.
What has been the most challenging moment in your basketball career so far, and how did you overcome it?
One of the most challenging moments in my basketball career was when I got injured in my senior year of college. That was a huge moment for me, especially being a senior. I was deciding what my future would look like after my NCAA days playing basketball were done. I was challenged mentally, physically, and emotionally, but I overcame it by leaning on my support system I had around me. I couldn’t control the situation I was in, so I took a hold of it full steam, if it was my attitude, how much work I put into coming back, understanding why things in life happen, etc. Overcoming adversity like this just put fuel to the fire for me and made me an overall better player.
Can you describe your journey from high school to college basketball, and how did your experience at the University of Tennessee shape your career?
In high school I was on Varsity all four years and during my last summer, before my senior year I was chosen to be on the AAU team in California for one summer. I was recruited by multiple colleges, which I am and was very grateful for. I ended up choosing the Lady Vols of Tennessee, who have some of the most incredible coaches, staff, system and players to come out of there. Playing at Tennessee taught me what basketball really was and how to play the game. I was able to develop my IQ of the game which in turn, helped me become a better basketball player. It also helped me with my work ethic and putting in the work will show in your results. They helped shape me to become a more confident and dynamic player, but also a good teammate. At the end of the day, there is always something that could be worked on, I have so much more learning and work to do.
How do you prepare mentally and physically for a big game?
I definitely do have a routine before every game, which helps me prepare mentally and physically. It gives me something to focus on leading up to any game, big game or not. First thing I do, is I always take a nap, which gets me ready and it gives my mind and body a rest before a high intensity game. I also have a good warm up routine which includes, dynamic stretching, mobility, shooting, etc. I have to make sure my body is warmed up and ready to go.
Who are some of the athletes or coaches that have influenced your career the most?
An athlete that influences me is the great Kobe Bryant, he was a legendary player, one of a kind on and off the court. His mind set and the way he goes about the game is something I try to follow. His Mamba Mentality is what was able to give him so much success in his career and I try to follow that when I hit the court.
How do you see the future of women’s basketball evolving in the next few years?
I think the future of women’s basketball is extremely bright and it will continue to evolve over the next few years. It’s incredible that women’s basketball is where it is right now and it’s going to keep growing. More and more people are investing their time and energy by attending our games or watching it on TV. They are taking time out to learn about each team, maybe each player and the game overall. The women that play the game are all influencers in the game and in society. Athletes are trend setters and a big influence to young children and people everywhere. The more people that see that, the more eyes that will be on the games. I love being a part of something that is evolving every single day.
What are the most important qualities for a basketball player to succeed in today’s game?
I think the most important quality in basketball is discipline. There’s no one around telling you to put in extra work and do the necessary things to better your career. So, you have to have self-discipline to do it yourself.
How did it feel to be drafted into the WNBA, and what were your initial thoughts and emotions when you found out?
The feeling of being drafted in the WNBA was unreal. Sitting in that room, being surrounded by so many different talents and hearing your name called, you can’t describe the feeling. It was just a testament to all the hard work I had put in leading to that moment. My initial thoughts and emotions were just grateful. I was grateful to have known that all the sacrifices and work that was done had finally paid off.
Outside of basketball, what are some of your hobbies or interests?
Outside of basketball I’m really into fashion, I have always been fascinated with it and I love to test myself with different types of looks. It really allows me to convey my personality or mood without saying a word. I love the creative part of fashion and where influences come from. Besides that, you can find me hanging out with friends and family, in any setting, as long as I get to spend time with them.
Can you share any advice for young athletes aspiring to play college basketball?
One big piece of advice is to set a goal and work towards it, no matter what the challenges are in front of you. Whatever the goal is, give your 100% effort to it and to control what you can control, focus on what you can control and respond to what is happening. This has always stuck with me.
What is your hope for the future?
My hope for my future is continuing to push myself to become the best basketball player and person that I can be through my actions and decisions.
This interview has been edited for length and clarity.
Special thanks to Modest Vintage Player
Look 1 credits:
Jacket – Shauna Courtney London
Earrings – Killa Acess
Showroom – & Public Relations
Look 2 credits:
Jacket – The Hundreds
Skirt – Shauna Courtney London
