Recently we had a chance to speak with Wagner basketball player Dedrick Dye. The senior guard has hit 247 career three-pointers to tie for fifth place on the NEC's all-time list. Dye is also 17th on Wagner’s career scoring chart with 1,267 points.  Recently, Dye earned Verizon Academic All-District honors for the second consecutive year, boasting a 3.725 cumulative grade point average as a Business Administration major. During his junior campaign Dye helped lead the Seahawks to their first NIT berth since 1979.  Along with his athletic achievements, the Clinton, TN native was named 2002 NEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year. Currently, Wagner (17-8, 13-2 NEC) is in sole possession of first place in the league standings as the Seahawks make a run for their first-ever NEC regular season and tournament titles.

Name: Dedrick Dye
School: Wagner
Sport: Men’s Basketball
Year: Senior

Hometown: Clinton, Tennessee
High school: Clinton
Major: Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing 

Favorite TV show: The Dave Chappelle Show 
Favorite Music: Everything
Hobbies: Golf, tennis, playing the guitar
Favorite Hoopster: Dennis Rodman

NEC: Why did you choose to come to Wagner?
DD: I wanted to see something different. I met the coach and I liked the location. It’s a small school and I like the community atmosphere where everyone is friendly and you know everyone.

NEC: What career do you wish to pursue after graduation?
DD: I would like to play overseas, but if not I will probably get a marketing job. 

NEC: As the reigning NEC Scholar-Athlete of the Year in men’s basketball, how are you able to balance athletics and academics?
DD: I find it kind of easy since I have been doing it all my life. I have been playing year round since middle school. I can remember my mom always told me to come home and get my homework done. I learned how to manage my time.

NEC: With 247 career three pointers, what’s the secret to your consistency from behind the arc?
DD: I like shooting three’s. I have a two-handed set three point shot and I don’t know where it came from.

NEC: What are your goals this season?
DD: My goals have always been to be in first place in the regular season, win a championship and go on to the NCAA’s. Hopefully we will keep up the good work. 

NEC: What will it take for Wagner to become NEC champs this year?
DD: We need to keep doing what we are doing. We need to play together and focus on our team. We control our own destiny.  

NEC: Who is your biggest competition?
DD: There is a lot of good competition and it seems like everybody has their best game against us.

NEC: How are you preparing for the upcoming NEC Tournament?
DD: We are still concentrating on the regular season games like LIU and SFNY. Before big games we watch scouting tape and prepare. Everyone is more together this year and giving positive feedback.

NEC: What is your role on the team this year?
DD: I am more of a leader this year. I’m trying to show the younger guys what to do. I am a floor leader by getting people in the right places and calling out defenses.

NEC: What teams do you look forward to playing this year and why?
DD: I am ready to play everyone. FDU beat us twice, so it would be good to get back at them.

NEC: Where is your favorite place to play?
DD: UCONN. I love the court and the rims. I had six three’s at their gym. 

NEC: Where is your least favorite place to play?
DD: Monmouth. I haven’t had a good game there yet. Maybe it is the lighting.     

NEC: How long have you been playing?
DD: I started when I was ten years old. 

NEC: How did you get started?
DD: I started playing with my friends and I liked the game. My father coached me and I wanted to play. I played all different sports, but I liked basketball the best. 

NEC: Name some aspects of your game that make you a great player?
DD: I have adjusted my shot and worked on my range. I can shoot a foot behind the arc. I am also quick on defense. 

NEC: Who are some people that have influenced you the most?
DD: Definitely my dad. If I can make him happy, then I’ve done my job.  

NEC: What is the most important attribute a basketball player needs?
DD: Being focused. It’s important not to miss things going on. Players need to understand, listen and study the game.

NEC: What is your most memorable game?
DD: During a tournament in high school I hit a buzzer beater shot. Even though it was in the third quarter it was still memorable. Also, there was a memorable game when I was 11 years old in my Recreation league. I was playing my friend’s team and both of our dad’s were coaching. We were up five with about five seconds left. My friend was guarding me and I backed him down and threw up a hook shot. That was one of my most fun games and I still bust on my friend about it to this day.   

NEC: Do you have any future plans as far as playing basketball?
DD: I would like to play overseas. I like to travel and see different places. To be able to do that and play ball at the same time is very gratifying.   

Interview conducted by Dawn Van Cleef, NEC Administrative Intern