Shipley’s Ray Somerville is Main Line Boys Athlete of the Week
The 6-foot-10, 240-pound senior center is averaging 12 ppg, 10 rpg and 4 bpg for the Gators (19-4 as of Feb. 4).The Cal State-Bakersfield commit, who received more than a dozen Division I offers, was an All-Friends Schools League first team selection, helping the Gators to a second-place finish in the FSL behind powerhosue Westtown. Shipley boys’ basketball head coach Phil D’Ambrosio said, “Ray has made huge strides during his three years here; all because of his work ethic and willingness to listen and learn. He’s really embraced his role of being a rim protector on the defensive side of the floor and his offensive skills are improving every day. With his size, athleticism and work ethic, I truly believe he will have an opportunity play professionally someday.”
Q: What do you think is the biggest key to making a successful block?
A: For me its all in the timing. Over the years I’ve learned where my opponent might try to put the ball and I just let my instincts do the rest
Q: Tell us a little about your start in competitive basketball. Who have been your most important basketball mentors; and what was the most important thing you learned from each of them?
A: I’m going on my fifth year of basketball – Coach Q, Coach Ted and Coach Phil [D’Ambrosio] have taught me the basics of the game along with countless other people helping me along the way, showing me small details that really make a difference.
Q: What area of your game do you feel you improved the most this season? What part of your game are you working on the most currently?
A: I think my mentality has been the biggest change. I’ve been able to keep my emotions under control for the most part, but I’ve matured into a leader, earning respect from my teammates while doing so.
Q: What has been your most memorable experience as a Shipley basketball player?
A: Beating Neumann-Goretti last year. I think that was the win that put Shipley on everyone’s radar.
Q: You received more than a dozen Division I scholarship offers, including LaSalle. What attracted you to Cal State-Bakersfield? What do you think you’d like to major in?
A: I chose Bakersfield because of the environment and the people. From the Vice President to the team managers, everyone there has goals that they are trying to accomplish and are willing to help others around them. As of right now I am undecided but my major will most likely be math or science related.
Q: What was your most memorable experience last July with Team Final?
A: Our Orlando trip was great. I had a great time playing down there and enjoying down time with the team
Q: Tell us a little about your pre-game preparation the day of a game.
A: I always eat lots of fruit on game day, mainly grapes. Also a power nap about two hours before the game.
Q: Who is your favorite basketball player, and why?
A: Kevin Garnett. He was one of the first basketball players I watched. His passion for the game is what makes him such a respected player.
Fun facts – Ray Somerville
Favorite book: Buck, by M.K. Asante.
Favorite TV show: Family Guy.
Favorite movie: Bad Boys 2.
Favorite pre-game pump-up song: Villematic – J. Cole.
Favorite team: Bucks.
Favorite place to visit: Oakland, Cal.
Favorite pre-game meal: Pasta with a side of fruit.
Person I most admire, and why: “My great-grandmother. She is the most influential person in my life.”
(To be selected as Main Line Boys Athlete of the Week, a student-athlete must first be nominated by his coach.)
