Meet freshman forward Corey Brown. A native of Hollywood, Fla., Brown played high school ball at McArthur, where he helped lead his team to the state championship game.

Q: Why NAU?

A:  I chose NAU because it felt like home. It reminded me of fond memories I had when I stayed in Connecticut for a while and I really do love the snow. Also, my teammate had committed to the school so I already knew the chemistry we had would continue.

Q: When did you get started playing basketball?

A: I started playing basketball at the age of seven at a MLK league in Florida.

Q: What style of play should NAU fans expect from you on the court?

A: Explosive and running the court to attack the rim or dunk the ball.

Q: Playing basketball takes physical and mental toughness. How do you keep a solid ground?

A: Usually when it comes to being mentally tough, I just think of my mother and brother. I know what they're going through right now so I try my best to stay focused mentally. Physically, I just tell myself that I want to be tougher and be able to lead this team to new heights. I always try to be competitive with my teammates to let them know I'm hungry for success. 

Q: What is it like to have your high school teammates here with you playing in college?

A: It's amazing. I already have great chemistry with these guys and the fact that we're at the same college where we can continue this is just a great experience. Not a lot of people have an opportunity to do this with their teammates and I'm thankful to have them by my side.

Q: What's the best advice anyone has ever given you?

A: There is actually a few that come to mind so I apologize if I extend this answer to more than what is expected. 1. If you doubt yourself the more likely you are to fail. Don't look at the negative just keep trying -Dad. 2. Every shot you take isn't going to go in so don't try to be a perfectionist on the court. MJ didn't make every shot and he was the greatest player ever - Coach Warren Gale. 3. Always pray to god when things get difficult, he will always be there for you when no one else will -Barbara Brown (my grandmother)

Q: You're a long ways from Florida, how do you stay focused on basketball?

A:  My family always told me not to worry about something that you can't handle from a distance, just focus on what's important and to call a few times to check in on them. I took their advice and I just work on what's important.

Q: What's been the biggest difference between high school and college (in the classroom)?

A: I'd say the work is a bit different. Most of the work is online. Also, all my classes are on different times different days.