Lahti Basketball elokuussa uuden lennokkaan laiturin, kun Jehloni James saapuu mastokaupunkiin. Kesä on ollut Jehlonille erityinen, sillä ensin hän allekirjoitti ensimmäisen ammattilaissopimuksensa ja hänen veljensä varattiin NBA:han. Nyt on aika tutustua kuka on Jehloni James.

Welcome to Lahti Basketball, Jehloni. 
Thank you! I’m excited to be a part of the organization!

Will Finland be your first time in Europe? 
Yes this will be my first time in Europe.

What’s your first impression of city of Lahti? 
Lahti looks like an interesting city. It kind’ve reminds me of my hometown in a way, because of all the nature around. 

Tell me little bit about yourself? 
I’m 24 years old, just graduated with my Masters in business, and if I weren’t playing basketball, I’d want to be a commercial airline pilot.  

Tell us about your family? 
My family is the most important thing to me! In my family, it’s important to work hard, no matter what the circumstances are, and to always strive to be great. They are the reason that I push myself every day!

Your brother was drafted to NBA this summer, how did that feel? 
Words cannot describe how it felt to hear his name. He’s worked hard for this his entire life though, so I wasn’t surprised at all. I am extremely proud of him! 

This is your first year as as pro. How does it feel? 
I cannot wait to get out there and starting living my dream! I’m excited to elevate my game in Lahti, all while getting to explore a new part of the world!

Tell me about your college career?
I started my college career at Georgia Tech as a walk-on. I believed back then (and still do now) that I was good enough to be a good player for them, but as time went on, I began to realize that I wasn’t going to get an opportunity to contribute. After my 3rd year, I transferred to Columbus State University. In my 3 years at CSU, I had the chance to both improve my game and learn to play winning basketball. My senior year, we won the regular season championship, made it to the second round of Division 2 March Madness, and I was First Team All Conference. 

How’d you heard about Lahti Basketball? 
Coach Palotie reached out to me, and told me about the team and his goals for this year.  

What is the best basketball memory so far in your career? 
My best memory was cutting down the nets at the end of last season. 

What kind of player is Jehloni James? 
I am a Swiss Army Knife. You can expect me to score, rebound, move the ball, get steals and block shots. I can be in the court with any lineup, because my main goal is to do what the team needs for us to win!  

Who has had biggest impact to your career?
My parents for sure. They made it possible for me to always chase my dreams.  

Who’s your favorite player of all time? 
LeBron James.

What’s your all time starting 5? 
Steph
Kobe
Bron
Giannis
Shaq

Greetings to Lahti Basketball fans?
I can’t wait to meet everyone, and play in a Lahti Uniform!