Mogul Monday: Insider Interview: “Ayla Brown- The Ultimate Sports and Entertainment Icon”

Years before her father was selected as a United States Senator for Massachusetts, Ayla Brown was the family member stealing all the headlines. For those who may not know, Ayla Brown started her sports & entertainment career during the fifth season of American Idol. Ayla made it to the top 16 before being eliminated at lucky 13 before she was sent home. What America did not know, was how motivated and driven this young lady was. During her time on American Idol, it was only briefly mentioned that she was going to be starting a college basketball career at Boston College, a feat that many people do not understand.

Being a college athlete is hard enough. You give up your life for a complete new one. This was a fear of the Boston College coaching staff prior to Brown’s arrival. They even offered to red shirt her for a season so that she could take some time to adjust from Hollywood to the Heights. Brown’s motivation and hard work wouldn’t allow that to happen. She gave the Eagle’s coaches her word that she would be ready to compete at the highest level and take on the challenges that the talented ACC would bring her way.

Throughout Brown’s college career, she was a consistent performer for the Eagles. She never let American Idol and her entertainment career overcome her focus on the court. When asked about how her opponents treated her, she said that she was never asked about American Idol, however she was asked by the Maryland program to sing the national anthem before a game in College Park. This was one of Brown’s favorite memories of her time with the Eagles.

For Boston sports fans out there, you know that the media in Boston is very tough. When asked how her interaction with the Boston media was, Brown was very humble. “For awhile they talked about American Idol during my freshman year at BC, but as time went on and basketball became my only focus, they stuck to that.” It is key to note that during Brown’s basketball career she was also trying to continue to build her musical brand. This was very tough for her. Any college basketball fan knows that being a college athlete comes with a number of restrictions and rules. Ayla was no exception. She credits her father for always being there to make sure she was in compliance.

Scott Brown’s ability to monitor his daughter’s dual-career in one of the most scrutinized divisions in sports (NCAA Compliance) is pretty remarkable. Ayla had to make a number of sacrifices to make sure that she did not put herself, but more important the Boston College program at risk. Ayla also credits the amazing relationship she had and keeps with her father. Many people do not know that even though he had a very busy schedule, he never missed a Boston College game. Ayla also shared with us that her father has some game as well, and states that the two would even challenge President Obama and Miss Maya Moore in a game of 2 on 2. Through it all, everybody that has followed the Brown family must look at them now and say Wow!

Scott Brown has recently started his first term as United States Senator for Massachusetts while Ayla is focusing on her music career. Looking Up Court had the opportunity to sit down and talk to Ayla last month regarding all of her success, from American Idol to BC and everything in between. It was a pleasure talking to Ayla about her story, a story that began when she was 17 and looks like it will have many more chapters.

Insider Interview:

Looking Up Court: When did you know you wanted to tryout for American Idol?

Ayla: I knew I wanted to try out for American idol about a month before. My mom came home with a bunch of information printed out about auditions and really encouraged me to try out. It never even crossed my mind to go through the process.

Looking Up Court: Who was your biggest supporter when you started the journey?

Ayla: My mother was my biggest supporter. She stood with me in the pouring rain for 18 hours at Gillette Stadium to try out. If it hadn’t been for her, I wouldn’t have even considered trying out.

Looking Up Court: What was your best memory from the competition?

Ayla: My best memory from the competition was the first performance on national television. I was singing my favorite song of all time; “Reflections” by Christina Aguilera and it was also my first time singing to a large crowd. I was nervous and excited at the same time. The most exciting part was when Ryan Seacrest called my name out on stage and the band started playing. It was my first time performing with a band… and there’s no better feeling than that!

Looking Up Court: Outside of basketball, how was college life after being on TV and competing college basketball?

Ayla: If you take basketball and American idol out of my college experience, I would have to say it was pretty anti-climatic. There’s nothing like putting on a uniform and playing on your home court, and there’s nothing like singing in front of thousands of people. Of course I learned a lot in class, but I really believe that most of my learning came from real life experiences. I was blessed to have the opportunity to live two dreams while at Boston College. Basketball, and singing, and I have to thank my coaches for allowing me to express myself and achieve both.

Looking Up Court: Do you think your basketball experience was different because of AI?

Ayla: In a way I do believe my basketball experience was a bit different because of American Idol. First of all, I made the mistake of not playing basketball when I was competing on American idol. When I was on the show, they kept us so busy that I never picked up a basketball. And the free time we did have, the bodyguards would not allow me to go alone to the court. Because of this, I was very far behind when I entered summer school at Boston College my freshman year. I regret not dribbling when I was out in CA because it put me at an extreme disadvantage. As a result, I wasn’t good enough to be a guard (which BC recruited me to be) and I ended up playing a power forward. I made the best of the situation, and still made All-ACC honorable mention, but if I could do it all over again I would have done some things differently.

The second way American Idol changed my life was the taunting aspect when we played at away games. It makes me laugh to think about it now, but opposing fans tried everything to get me off my game from making signs, saying, “Simon hates you,” to singing my audition song, “Ain’t no Mountain High Enough.” When we played Duke my freshman year the entire student section started singing that song. I’m pretty sure though that their taunting didn’t mean much, as I still scored 14 pts.

Looking Up Court: If you had competed in AI before your senior year, do you think it would have had an effect on recruiting?

Ayla: If I competed in American Idol before my senior year it wouldn’t have effected my recruiting. I committed to Boston College at the age of 15; therefore no matter what I did I was still going to Boston College. Of course the coach could have taken away my scholarship, as coaches can do for any reason, but I am very happy with the timing of everything. In fact, Cathy Inglese, called me while I was competing on Idol and said that they may red shirt me my freshman year. However, I ensured her that I would be ready to compete.

Looking Up Court: Do you think you will ever reenter the college basketball world (coaching, broadcasting, etc.)?

Ayla: At this point in my life, I don’t think I would re-enter the college basketball world, unless it was through broadcasting. Currently, I work as a Special Contributor for The Early Show on CBS so I could see the next step as a commentator or reporter for Women’s or Men’s Basketball. But right now, I am very happy with my career and am not looking to re-enter to basketball world. However, if the opportunity presented itself, I would definitely consider it. I still love the game.

Looking Up Court: Do you have any upcoming plans for your personal music (another album, a tour, etc.)?

Ayla: I just got back from an Afghanistan tour performing for our troops. It was an incredible experience that has given me a lot of stage practice. Currently, I am working on a country album. I just recorded four songs at Reba’s studio in Nashville and will be signing a recording contract in the next couple of months. I am blessed to have the opportunity to write songs with the best writers in the country and I am so excited about what the future holds for my band and myself. We have worked so hard since I graduated, and all the stars are aligning.

Looking Up Court: What is your take on the new judges for AI?

Ayla: I haven’t really thought about the judges on American idol to tell you the truth. I think the show is rapidly declining and it was smart that Simon left when he did. I will be surprised if idol has another extremely successful year in the ratings.

Looking Up Court: If you could play any AI judge 1 on 1, who would it be and why?

Ayla: Honestly, this might sound mean, but I wouldn’t even waste my time playing any of the judges. I would rather play someone who knows about basketball and has basketball experience. My dad challenged the President, so I am still waiting on an offer. Until then, I will wait for the next taker…

Looking Up Court: What are you stronger at, singing or basketball?

Ayla: At one point I would have said basketball, but those days are over. Singing has taken the lead!! But give me a little time to practice on the court and it could be a tie again. But honestly, I don’t care what I am stronger at. I played basketball for the love of the game, and I sing because I want my lyrics to resonate with listeners. If I have successfully done that, then I am truly happy.

Love & Hoops,

Thankful Thursday- Two legacies. Two Coaches. One Mission. One Month.

With February approaching, I wanted to take some time to plug my involvement with Geno Auriemma’s affiliate program for The V Foundation for Cancer Research. February is our PINK Zone month in honor of breast cancer victims and more specifically, the late Kay Yow. I have been on the board for Geno’s Cancer Team for close to two years and have helped with some amazing fundraising and advocacy for cancer research. Below find the 2010 Corporate Video for The V Foundation. Each Thursday during the month of february, I will be updating you on our efforts.

Jim Valvano and Kay Yow both represented something amazing. They were individuals that not only were champions on the court, but also champions at life. They both have left lasting legacies that have formed both The V Foundation for Cancer Research and the Kay Yow WBCA Cancer Fund. I ask you to help me support this amazing cause.

Love & Hoops,

Insider Interview: “I made it, I made it– The Up & Down Journey of Brittany Hunter”

Have you ever thought about picking up an activity, a sport, a hobby, or an interest and within three years becoming the best in America? Yeah it seems pretty daunting. For UConn Alum Brittany Hunter, this is not a joke, but rather her story. She represents one of the most up and down basketball stories in the history of high school and collegiate sports. Starting off playing basketball, Brittany never would have imagined that her career would be comprised of so many highs and lows: High School McDonald’s All-American, Top Recruit in the Country, Duke Signee, UConn transfer, multiple knee injuries, and a career cut short. Many would sit back and wallow, well not Brittany, she is the definition of Looking Up Court.

Even before Brittany started playing basketball she represented all the qualities of a successful athlete. She worked hard in all aspects of life, which made her quick transition into a basketball superstar very understandable. In Looking Up Court’s insider interview, Brittany talks about going from a basketball rookie to THE BEST in 3 very quick years. That in itself gives her enough credibility to teach young individuals the art of not only basketball, but life. Through her new basketball camp, she is now teaching young athletes across the State of Connecticut not only what it takes to be a college basketball player, but also a winner at the game of life.

Looking Up Court had the opportunity to do an insider interview with Brittany last week and she had such great things to talk about. We thank Brittany for taking the time to give us a little inside look at her life. It was a pleasure Britt!

Insider Interview-

Looking Up Court: Briefly describe your time as a high school basketball player.

Brittany: Playing in high school was a rollercoaster ride. My story is different because I went from being a novice to THE BEST in a matter of 3 years. While my school had an amazing inner city rivalry with another high school on the other side of town, I LOVED LOVED LOVED AAU basketball. Ohio is a basketball factory in my opinion…just think of the talent that came from there, and furthermore consider the consistent Ohio presence on the UConn team of late. Because Ohio is so competitive you didn’t have to travel very far to play against superior competition. In a nutshell playing basketball in high school was so much fun because thats when I got better and when we had SERIOUS rivalries!

Looking Up Court: Briefly describe your time as a college basketball player at Duke and Connecticut.

Brittany: Some of my best friends today are from Duke, so I will ALWAYS treasure playing basketball there, even if it was just for a year. I loved the people and the work hard, play hard method of the students, and that made basketball almost a part time job outside of my classes. At UConn however, there rigors on basketball were much more prevalent. We had such a strong following so basketball was EVERYTHING. It was a whole new world playing in front of so many people and also for so many people to know who you were while you were at the mall or out eating with your teammates. It was definitely a once in a lifetime experience and my teammates will always be my best friends because of that.

Looking Up Court: How did it feel watching the team break the record?

Brittany: I was at the game with Tina so that made it that much more enjoyable! I love how loud the fans were and I loved getting to see the Freshman be a part of that and even get to contirbute to that. They havent totally been introduced to the whole Uconn Husky world, and they probably wont grasp the importance of that experience until they graduate and people ask them: “Hey were you apart of that team that won all those games in a row?” I would know because people ask me that all the time, and I get to say “Welllllll no, I was actually on that team that had the last loss”…sad I know lol.

Looking Up Court: How did your injury problems in college help you learn about life?

Brittany: I learned that basketball wasnt going to be the same for me at an early age so I had more than enough time to adjust to the situation and start to plan other things. For me, however, basketball was just a means to and end from the beginning, so it wasnt hard to get into plan B mode. I have used basketball as a vehicle to get to college so it was clear that I needed to use it for the rest of my life, if I could. I was devastated, of course, and it took me about 2 years to get out of the bitter stage but I also was forced to look 10-15 years ahead in life because I almost felt like a regular student, planning for the rest of my life, instead of looking ahead to the WNBA.

Looking Up Court: What did the coaching staff at Connecticut teach you about coaching?

Brittany: I learned to pay attention to detail. I got to see just how things were related to one another. When CD was yelling about our shirts not being tucked in, I really got to see how it looked when people didnt think about those things. When paying attention to detail becomes routine, its easy to do it in other realms. When You are trying to impress that on other young people, however, that can be very trying, so I got to see first hand how my own attention to detail would transfer over to coaching the girls.

Looking Up Court: What is your favorite thing about Geno Auriemma?

Brittany: Probably his ability to always come out on top. 99.99999% of the kids he recruits are competitive and he is as well. Thats what drew me to CT. I wanted to be the best and more importantly I wanted to be with a group of people who were the best and always wanted to be the best. Coming out of high school I was probably better equipped to deal with what that really meant, but after I got hurt, it was harder to realize that dream the same way, making it that much harder to appreciate that competitive nature.

Looking Up Court: What is your favorite thing about Christine Dailey?

Brittany: Her clothing choice lol. I remember waiting to see what CD was going to have on. There were times when she had maybe a repeat skirt or repeat shirt and being really excited to see what she had on for the game and then being let down, when I had already seen it. HOWEVER, I thought I would be over that but when they played O state this year, I kept looking at CD’s HUGE necklace and thinking “Oooooo, did she get that off QVC?” It was realllyyyyy nice!

Looking Up Court: Briefly describe your basketball camp that you have recently started.

Brittany: Our camp is not just a basketball camp. We include speakers who talk about eating disorders and ACL tears. These are things that are MORE common than people think and I think a lot of girls arent aware of it, and neither are their parents. Besides all the X’s and O’s and speaker stuff, the best part of our camp was definetly the counselors we had! Obviously it was my teammates, new and old and we got to be as LOUD as we wanted. The kids loved out energy and we had as much fun as they did because we were excited about every drill and OVERLY enthustiastic about the days events. IF that was one thing I think that is missing from a lot of camps, it would be that. Kids want to learn skills and play basketball and of course meet the players, but they really want to get to know the players and see that they are fun normal people just like them.

Looking Up Court: If you could pick one coach in either men’s or women’s basketball that you could be most like, who would it be and why?

Brittany: I Love Coach K. I think the best thing about his program, and seeing it first hand, is that he has such control over the team, but its not really control, thats a bad word. Its more or less a respect that they have for him. He doesnt really have to yell that much when he gets his point across. He holds everyone accountable for their actions and he gets everyone to play hard for him. You never hear about his kids getting into trouble and you never see him involved in anything he shouldnt be involved in. He is able to recruit GREAT players who are also GREAT people as well, who can succeed in the world outside of basketball. His staff of assistant coached are always so nice as well. They really look up to him and you can tell that they want to be in his presence and learn as much from him as they can. While a lot of a people HATE DUKE, I think they might lack the respect for Coach K that they should probably have.

Looking Up Court: If you could coach any former Husky other than yourself (LOL) who would it be and why?

Brittany: HAHAHA, Would I want to coach another HUSKY??? I don’t know, that’s a funny question. This answer is totally based on my experiences with this person. I remember Mel Thomas being the slowest white girl known to MAN, but she always came in first in sprints and the mile… makes no sense I know but its true and funny. One summer, when I was just coming back from my knee injury, Mel was asking me to help her learn a new move. It should be mentioned that this was the same summer that Mel and I were the BEST 2 on 2 competitors on campus. WE challenged every football and basketball player to a game of 2 on 2 almost everyday that summer and we were 98-3 that summer against anyone we played! I dont know the real record but we seriously dominated. Anyways, I was teaching Mel how to shoot a floater LOL…MAKES NO SENSE I KNOW…I am a 6’3″ post player teaching 5’8″ Mel Thomas shooting guard how to shoot a floater. What makes this so awesome is that Mel was actually listening to me and I was actually trying to teach her. She works so incredibly hard at everything she does from ball to school work and she is going to be successful in anything that she does in life, with my help of course. For the record she is getting her MBA because I told her to LOL.

Love & Hoops,

Caroline Doty, Kemba Walker, & Geno Auriemma– Trick Shot Time

Here is a great video put together by the UConn programs. Watch as Caroline Doty, Kemba Walker, and Geno Auriemma amaze you.

Love & Hoops,

Thankful Thursday- I love Kobe Bryant, always and forever.

Just a little clip to get you through your Thursday. I have had a busy week so we are amping up for big stories next week on Brittany Hunter and Ayla Brown.

Love & Hoops,

Insider Interview: Small Frame didn’t stop Big Dreams– Ladies and Gentleman, Renee Montgomery

Just by looking at Renee Montgomery you can tell that she has a great personality and is a fun, loving young woman. What you do not see, what lies within her 5 foot 7 frame, is one of the best point guards in UConn basketball history and a developing brand within the world of WNBA Entertainment.

Renee was born on December 2nd 1986 in the town of St. Albans, West Virgina and played her high school basketball at South Charlestown High School. After 4 dominant years, she finished her high school career as a McDonalds All-American in 1995. Renee was a 4-year captain in high school and signed with National Powerhouse Connecticut. At Connecticut, Renee continued her on-court success with a stellar career. Her freshman season she helped the Huskies to a 32-5 record and was the Big East Freshman of the Year. During her sophomore and junior seasons, she was named named first time ALL-Big East and helped the Huskies to an elite eight and final four season respectively. Her senior season was when she did it ALL. Finishing the season with an undefeated National Championship and a spot as a first team All-American, and was the recipient of the Nancy Lieberman Award for the Nation’s Top Point Guard.

Her dominant success in college landed her the third overall pick by the Minnesota Linx in the 2009 WNBA Draft. She spent a very short amount of time in Minnesota before returning to Connecticut and joining the Connecticut Sun. She spent last off-season playing in Lithuania and now plays in Israel. Renee exemplifies success on the court, but that is only the beginning. Her off the court endeavors to develop the Renee Montgomery brand are very impressive.

She has a tee shirt line that many UConn fans show off at UConn games. Her website is a great opportunity to meet Renee. She is the National Spokesperson for the Pajama Program. She is an enterprise. Catch is, she is only 24 years old and about to enter her 3rd season in the WNBA. Renee has the world ahead of her, and Looking Up Court had the opportunity to sit down with Renee last week and talk to her about all her successes.

Insider Interview:

Looking Up Court: In 5 words, what characteristics do you need to win at Connecticut?

Renee: Heart, Mental toughness, Passion, Will

Looking Up Court: How has it been for you watching UConn make history over the past month?

Renee: I was proud watching UConn make history but I was proud of the coaching staff more than anyone else. Talent does not mean you will win that many games in a row. It takes coaches having you focused and prepared. It takes coaches that do not allow you to overlook an unranked opponent.

Looking Up Court: Briefly describe your time at UConn and how it compares to your current team in the WNBA.

Renee: Its hard to compare a college experience to a professional experience. There are things I experienced at UConn that the WNBA cannot compare to, and being a professional athlete has perks that I would have love to get while in college.

Looking Up Court: What was your motivation to create your own tee shirts?

Renee: A lot of shirts in stores are very routine. They pretty much say “UConn is the best” and we already know that. I just like making tee shirts that make a statement. Something that I know a lot of people are thinking.

Looking Up Court: Do you have any upcoming plans for new shirts or more products?

Renee: I will more than likely make a Final Four tee shirt. I haven’t figured out completely what its going to look like but I have a good idea of what it will say. (and nope Im not telling you)

Looking Up Court: If you could create a shirt for Geno Auriemma, what would it say and why?

Renee: Front: I never been a fan of streaking ….. Back: But I love holding records

Looking Up Court: If you could have one NBA superstar wear one of your shirts who would it be and why?

Renee: Hmm… I don’t know, definitely a UConn alum like Ray Allen or Donyell Marshall

Looking Up Court: What is your interest in the Pajama Program?

Renee: I love children so I wanted to be involved in an organization that helps children. The Pajama Program donates new pajamas to children that are in not so good situations. http://www.pajamaprogram.org

Looking Up Court: How have you embraced your role as National Spokesperson?

Renee: I could definitely do a better job of being a National Spokesperson and getting the word out but I fully embrace the role and love that an organization as established as the Pajama Program think enough of me to be their spokesperson.

Looking Up Court: Did you ever dream of being a commentator on ESPN?

Renee: When I was younger, I always wanted to act, commentate, or just do something in front of the camera. I never really thought it would happen, but I plan on continuing my basketball career and maybe doing some other things in the process.

Looking Up Court: If you could interview anyone in the history of basketball as an ESPN analyst who would it be and why?

Renee: Thats a tough question. I would love to interview Magic Johnson. There is so many topics I would love to talk about with him, not only basketball.

Looking Up Court: When you left UConn and started preparing to enter the WNBA did you ever think you would have the brand success that you do now? (tee shirts, website, charity, ESPN)

Renee: When I left UConn, I felt like I had experienced and done so many things that it couldn’t get any better. I then began to understand that UConn prepared me to be successful in the “real world.” Coach Auriemma taught me that the strong work ethic I have on the court should carry over into everything I do. CD taught me “class” and if anyone knows or has seen Christine Dailey then you know exactly what I mean. Tonya Cardoza taught me to believe in myself. She believed in me in some of the times I didn’t. And Jamelle Elliott taught me toughness. They instilled traits that are not only needed in basketball, but key in being successful in business as well.

Well there you have it folks, Renee Montgomery is definitely a Husky for life. She has taken the tools, not only basketball skills, taught during her four years at UConn and brought them to the real world of life. If you would like more information on Renee or would like to look at her ever-growing brand, visit her official website.

Love & Hoops,

“I hear you like to play basketball, maybe you can show me what you got… Sincerely, Dwayne Wade”

This is just a very simple post today as I am gearing up for a great insider interview tomorrow on University of Connecticut superstar and WNBA all-star Renee Montgomery. The interview went great and I cannot wait for you all to see it.

For this week’s Thankful Thursday, I wanted to share a segment from ESPN’s My Wish series that aired in 2009. Dwayne Wade makes this child’s life. His story is truly inspirational.

Stay tuned for a great follow-up to this in February. I am working on a partnership with Connecticut Children’s Medical Center and Looking Up Court to share a special moment with a UConn team and a child from the hospital.

Love & Hoops,