HomeAbout UsWho We AreJoshua Rodriguez
[The NGBA] has created a second family and a safe space for me to be my true self and the athlete I always wanted to be!
JoshuaRodriquez
What first got you interested in playing basketball, and how did you find your way into the LGBTQ+ basketball community?
Playing basketball with my best friend Chayri who made varsity our freshman year in HS. I practiced with them and did the books for them for 4yrs. A coworker found NYC Pride basketball for me after I told him how much I missed it after not playing for 10yrs since coming out of the closet.
Who has been your biggest inspiration or mentor in the LGBTQ+ basketball community, and why?
Mike Kokell and Vince Moten! Not only are they pioneers in NYC basketball but aside from basketball they have created a loving environment, great support system, and have made everyone feel like family.
What's your favorite memory from any of the LGBTQ+ basketball tournaments you've participated in?
My first tournament I played in I won a championship! I went to San Diego tournament just to be a spectator and support my friends and Mike Kokell’s team was short a few players and asked me to play! It was so great to actually play in the tournament and win on my first try!! I haven’t stopped ever since!!
What's one piece of advice you would give to young LGBTQ+ athletes just starting out in their basketball journey?
Come in with an open mind and just enjoy the experience! Also be ready to compete because the gays ain’t playing with you, anyone can get it on the court lol!!!
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