An interview with the 13 year-old Albanian-American basketball prodigy, who has already received her first offer from a university and who dreams of becoming a WNBA star
At just 13 years old, Sara Nezaj is not just playing basketball; she’s dominating the court. Born in the USA to Albanian parents, Sara has already received her first university offer, marking the beginning of what promises to be a remarkable journey in the world of basketball.
Her exceptional skills have not gone unnoticed, earning her a spot among the top 25 All-American nominees for the Class of 2028. When asked about her impressive performance, Sara humbly attributes her success to “many long hours in the gym and dedication.” Despite her achievements, she remains focused on continuous improvement, recognizing the need to work even harder to achieve her goals.
Though born in the USA, Sara’s connection to her Albanian roots remains strong. She is also blessed with a family that supports her dream of becoming a basketball star. Read my interview below with this exceptional young woman. (Ruben Avxhiu)
Q&A with Sara Nezaj
When did you start playing basketball? What attracted you to this particular sport?
I started playing basketball when I was only 6. I only played with boys, and I was the only girl, but that didn’t bother me. What attracted me to this sport was feeling like I can accomplish and dominate at something I was really good at.
I saw a couple of clips of you playing. Very impressive. No wonder you were selected among the top 25 All-American nominees Class of 2028. How did you get this good?
Getting to the point and skill level I am today was not easy. It took many long hours in the gym and dedication to get this good. Even though I have gotten better, I still have to work even harder to get where I want to be.
Who are your favorite basketball players? Do you see yourself becoming a professional player in the future?
My favorite basketball player is LeBron James. I am extremely impressed by the way he plays because of how explosive he is and the way he attacks the rim. One day I hope to be good enough to play in the WNBA.
Your grandfather, Sherif Nezaj, who is Albanian, posted a very proud message about you on Facebook, which is how we learned about you. Where is your family from? When did they come to this country? Were you born here?
My mom is from Kosovo and was born there as well. She came here when she was just 2 years old. My dad is from Tropja but was born here. I as well was born here.
Does your family support your dedication to basketball? Are they basketball fans?
My family is extremely supportive of my dedication to this sport that I love. They have taken me across the whole country just so I could play basketball. Not only that but every day they drive me to practice. My grandma Sofija takes me to practice when my parents they can’t. Both my parents played basketball when they were younger, so it’s not a surprise that I play as well.
Have you ever been to Albania?
I have only been to Albania once when I was eight. I loved spending time with my family, and I had an amazing time. I hope one day I get a chance to go there again.
Do you find time to do your schoolwork? What else do you like besides playing basketball?
Just because I play every day doesn’t mean I don’t have time for schoolwork. I am a high honor student and find time every day to study and finish my work. Basketball isn’t the only thing that is extremely important to me. I love spending time with my family and friends.
What are your future plans for now?
For my future, I have very high expectations. Even though they’re high, I think I can do it. I want to play at a Division 1 college. I already have a Division One offer but that doesn’t mean I am going to stop here. I can’t wait for my future, but I just have to stay consistent so I could accomplish it.
