Five Questions: Shandon Goldman

LITTLE ROCK – Shandon "Biggie" Goldman enters his freshman season for the Trojans in 2016-17. Goldman grew up in Evansville, Ark., and is one of nine in-state products on the Little Rock roster.
 
Goldman played last season at Tennessee Preparatory Academy in Memphis, Tenn., where he averaged 13.5 points, 8.0 rebounds and 1.2 blocks in 2015-16. The 6-9 forward shot 48 percent from the floor and 42 percent from 3-point range.
 
Where did the nickname "Biggie" come from?
 
It's probably not what you think; it came before I was as tall as I am right now. I had an older sister who is about four years older than me, and I was a real fat baby, so she started calling me "Biggie Boy." That was then shortened to "Biggie." From there, I started putting it on my papers at school and the teachers started calling me that. It goes a long way back.
 
What made you want play at Little Rock?
 
I really liked the program. I talked to the coaches and really noticed their motivation of wanting to make this place a powerhouse. I'm from Arkansas, so having the chance to stay in state and play basketball was what really attracted me.
 
Is there anything you do before a game that gets you hyped up?
 
I listen to a lot of music – Kanye West or rock. I'll listen to almost anything. I try to focus in and get into the zone. I don't really have a set routine yet; maybe I will while I'm playing here.
 
As of right now what has been the biggest adjustment coming from prep school to UALR
 
The speed of the game and strength. Obviously, I have to get stronger and that's probably the biggest difference between what I was used to at prep school. I think I'm on the same level when it comes to skills with these guys, it's just the strength I have to work on. It's the number one thing for me right now, getting stronger.
 
If not basketball what other sport would you have liked to play at another college level?
 
It might seem kind of funny to hear, being 6-9 and skinny, but growing up I was a huge football fan. I am a huge Packers fan. Growing up, I was always a huge basketball and football fan.