Timeout: basketball talk with Terry Winn, AGBU Antranik

Ahead of the Snips AGBU Antranik Basketball Tournament, which is being held at AGBU Demirdjian Center in Naccache from October 4-13, we caught up with Terry Winn, the dynamic new power forward at AGBU Antranik.

Did you always want to play professional basketball?

Yes, absolutely. I knew from the age of four or five that I wanted to be a basketball player.

What can you tell us about your basketball journey and how you ended up in Lebanon?

I’m originally from Louisiana, but I spent time in Utah and Texas before heading to Luxembourg for my rookie year. I’ve also played basketball in Ukraine, Australia and Germany. During the pandemic, I went back to the States and played in a semi-pro league with the Temple Bay Tigers, and I used that experience to leverage myself back overseas. I then returned to Luxembourg and subsequently came here, to Lebanon, to play for Antranik.

What’s your motto?

Stay down, regardless of what’s going on around you. Don’t get too high or too low. Remain focused and remember; if you grind hard you’ll shine hard.

What did you know about Lebanon before you arrived?

I had spent a couple of weeks in Qatar, and I thought Lebanon would be a little similar. However, I wasn’t sure what to expect. My goal was simply to come to Lebanon and start playing basketball with Antranik.

How would you describe your experience so far?

My experience has been great. I love the competition and the physicality of the Lebanese basketball league. My teammates are amazing, and I’m really happy to be here.

Have you been able to see much of Lebanon yet?

Actually, I haven’t had the chance! I only arrived around 10 days ago and have been in the gym a lot, especially as we are getting ready for the season and have the AGBU Antranik basketball tournament coming up. I’ve been to a few restaurants, including SUD and Le Sushi Bar, and have wandered around ABC Dbayeh. No doubt I’ll see more of the country as time goes on.

What can people expect from the upcoming basketball tournament?

I would encourage all basketball fans to come out and support their favorite team. It starts on October 4, and the final is on October 13. There will be plenty of talent, and if you’re an Antranik basketball fan, you’ll get to see a different team with a new identity.

Check out our article on the best basketball shoes from Adidas Lebanon.