Paul Ater Maker Bol

Paul’s strengths are definitely his soft shooting touch combined with an incredible physical toolset which enables him to finish variable at the rim and from outside (f. eg. with eurosteps, stepbacks). With his tremendous long strides, a clean / fluent shot and advanced leg coordination, he manages to dominate the youth level easily, defensively and offensively. In addition, he has also shown, especially this season, a certain leadership ability, which until now has been little in evidence.

As he said in the followed interview his focus is currently on getting bigger in all body parts and also to establish consistency in his whole game (shot selection, activity on defense, etc.). It is safe to say that his already now mature mentality and work ethic emphasized through the conversations with him are remarkable. He has a bright future ahead of him and has to be named when it comes to the most exciting prospects from the 2007 generation that can make it to the top.

When did you start playing basketball?

Seven Years ago, I did start playing, so I think it was 2014. I have a cousin who also plays professional basketball. In school with friends, I normally played soccer. One day I was going to a playoff match of my cousin and it inspired me.  

 Which position did you play in soccer?

I was a midfielder, because I liked to pass. 

When did you notice that basketball is your priority?

By the time I steped on the court for the first time. Honestly the first day was really bad, because I didn’t really know what to do and where to go. But I was in love with the game and it was kind of fun anyways. For me it was just one thing: There is a little basket and I have to throw it into (laughs). It wasn’t like football where I just played. In basketball I was more focused, it was super. 

What is your current size by the way?

203cm / 6’8”

 How would you describe your play style and on which position do you see yourself?

I like playing the shooting guard / small forward position as a shot creator. But I want to be able to play all positions, which is also one of my dreams in basketball. Being a player that can do it all, outside and inside. That is what I try to figure out. Also running fastbreaks, shoot from outside, dunk. I just want to do a little bit of everything. Also on defense, it is sometimes hard, but I get better with that as well. 

 Any players you like to watch or model your game after?

I like Kevin Durant a lot, how he finishes inside, the work ethic, how he finishes with pull-ups, but also his focus and intensity and especially the killer mentality. Also Kobe Bryant. I love his footwork and surely also his mentality. That means never giving up and being a leader. So I watch a lot, but mostly Kevin Durant and Kobe. But also Paul George or Giannis. Regarding Giannis primarily how he finishes and dunks. You see a little bit of everything. 

 What are some things you are focusing on currently in terms of getting better?

Right now I am just focused on my shooting. I am trying to make as many shots as possible daily and also try to focus on every single shot. Also I work on defense to be the best defense in my team. I always try to be the best on offense and on defense. As long as I am still growing I try to be consistent. That means being consistent from day to day in everything I do on the court. Especially mentally. 

What have you been doing to improve as a shooter?

I think that I am good in that. When I am talking about shooting I am trying to make good looking shots and not forcing anything. That’s all I am trying to fix out. Just improving to make the right shot. This is much about decision making, so also a mental thing. I try to fix that out. Especially because I know that when it comes to professional level I have to be smart and quick in decision. I can say that I try to see myself now already as a professional player. Right now the league where I am playing is not professional level. I am burning for professional level. Many coaches and people are telling me to keep calm and say “Ater you are still young” and stuff like that. But at the end of the day I want to be ready in all aspects when I come to the next level. 

What are some of the things you like doing off the court? You have any hobbies?

I like to play some video games. I like to go out with friends, but not a lot because I am also addicted to training. Often I come home and just relax. 

Which video games you are playing right now?

I really like FIFA and also NBA obviously. On NBA I love to play MyCareer and all this kind of stuff. 

Did you already create yourself?

Yeah, I created myself. It is nice to see all the other prospects. Also you can get some insights to all the stages from highschool to college, etc.. So it really helps me sometimes.

What are some of your goals for the rest of this season, although the season ended already for your team?

Right now my goal is to improve my physics. So to work on my athletics, get bigger arms, get bigger legs and just try to grow. But surely I am also working on the court to translate everything to the real game. 

 Looking long term? Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

Honestly what I believe, because I work so hard every day consistently and trying to focus on the details, I can be a true professional in five years. But it all depends on me and on what I do during these years to improve. If I work hard and focus.

Can you imagine going to college or what is your ideal path to being a pro?
My goal is to go NBA draft, if not possible… I mean it is possible for me If I work hard. College is an option, but it depends on the moment and it depends how it goes you know. 

Can you name one thing you have improved or learned this season?

Yeah, honestly I improved defensively. Right now I am able to guard 1-5 positions, so you can put me against everybody. That’s wasn’t the case before. I am also pretty proud of that. I think I am one of the best defenders in the league. 

Do you have any music that you are listening before games or even some pre-game rituals?

Yeah, normally I listen to hip-hop or rap. Something like Lil Baby, Gunna and so on. I don’t normally do other rituals. I just want to listen to some music that motivates me. Sometimes I also watch some Kobe Bryant motivation videos. I just put on my headphones and try to build his killer mentality. 

What would you like to be remembered for?

I hope people will not only remember me as a good finisher or shooter. I want to be remembered for an all-around player. A player who can lead his team in all aspects!