Get to Know You: Korey Hess
Sophomore guard Korey Hess returns to the Pioneers for a second season in 2021-22.
 
Q&A with Hess
How has the transition been with the new staff?
The transition with the new staff has been great. It's normally hard, but they made an impact since the first day they arrived. They changed the culture and everyday we are getting one step closer to a championship.

What made you fall in love with the game of basketball?
I fell in love with basketball due to the time I spent with my dad and the Denver Nuggets. I grew up with a basketball in my hand while watching NBA players daily. The competitiveness is what hooked me, and I've been in love with the game ever since.

When did you know you could play at the Division I level?
Since elementary school I believed that I could play at the Division 1 level. I've always had a confidence about myself, but that confidence stems from the work that I put into my craft. I've always knew that if I worked hard and believed in myself, I could accomplish anything. So since elementary school, I pictured myself in this situation.

What is your favorite basketball moment?
My favorite basketball moment was when I hit a full court shot my senior year in high school. It was a once and a lifetime shot and something I'll never forget.

Have any of your family members played collegiate or professional sports and what team/position did they play?
No, but my dad was an Assistant Coach/Strength and Conditioning Coach with the Denver Nuggets for 21 years.
 
Growing up playing basketball, who had the most influence on the development of your game?
My dad pushed me to develop my game the most. We would wake up at 5:00 AM from a young age, and he instilled in me that I have to work harder than everyone else.

Who was your favorite basketball player and team growing up and why?
My favorite team growing up was the Denver Nuggets. I was in the position where I was around all the players due to my dad being the Strength and Conditioning coach with the Nuggets. I built a relationship with all the players which made me love the Nuggets and want them to succeed. My favorite player growing up was Allen Iverson. I always called myself "White Iverson" while trying to perfect his crossover.

Describe your style of play and how it affects the game?
My style of play is a pass-first guard who is a dog. I like getting others involved and would rather make the extra pass before taking my own shot. I try and be a dog every time I step on the court, and always play with a chip on my shoulder. I believe that this affects the team in a positive way and gives everyone energy.

Favorite moment of getting to know your knew teammates at the University of Denver?
My favorite moment while getting to know some of my new teammates is doing things off the court together to build a closer bond. We hangout as a team multiple times every week, and I am able to see the carry-over that this has on the basketball court. I love how fun times off the court builds chemistry on the court.

What does the a basketball family look like to you?
A basketball family for me is when everyone on the team is so close that it feels as if they are all my brothers. A basketball family is knowing that everyone has your back and would always go to battle with you. A basketball family is knowing that all your brothers want to see you succeed.

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