Q & A With Paulisha Kellum

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Paulisha Kellum has started 22 games for the 18-6 Cavaliers this season. She recently poured in a career-high 23 points in a tough battle at No. 4 Maryland and averages 9.3 points and 3.1 rebounds per game for Virginia.

Question: How did you get your nickname, Pooh?
Paulisha Kellum: I’ve had it since I was a little kid. Ever since then it has stuck with me. I guess it’s just easier to call me Pooh than to say Paulisha.

Question: Describe what a game day is like at John Paul Jones Arena.
Kellum: It’s very alive. We have a lot of fans and a lot of support out there. It’s great to have people cheering us on no matter who we are playing.

Question: If you were writing your own bio, how would you describe your game?
Kellum: Tenacious. I’m always trying to be aggressive whether it is on defense or offense. I have a passion for the game, period, and always want to come out with a victory.

Question: One of the words often used to describe you is underrated. Do you agree with that?
Kellum: I just kind of play my game and as long as we’re winning I’m happy. I think a lot of people say that because I tend to be in the shadows because I’m not always the leading scorer or leading rebounder. I’m just playing my game though.

Question: Who or what inspires you?
Kellum: I would say my family. They are always very supportive of me whether I have a good game or bad game. They give me a lot of inspiration to keep on playing my hardest each and every game.

Question: What’s the hardest part about basketball?
Kellum: Managing your time between schoolwork and the long hours of practices, games and travel.

Question: Who is your favorite athlete at UVa?
Kellum: Mamadi Diane.

Question: What is the most enjoyable class you’ve taken so far?
Kellum: Biology 201. I’m a science person.

Question: What is the worst movie you own?
Kellum: Nacho Libre.

Question: What do you like to do on your days off?
Kellum: Catch up on schoolwork. Catch up on sleep.