Sophomore guard Chris Harriel is lighting up the basketball court this season. The Riverside, Calif. native commented on his persistent work ethic—both on and off the court—and his desire to become an entrepreneur after school.
Until he unfolds his plan for his future electrical company, the sophomore is content with practicing his skills on the court. Currently, he is working to make a name for himself with what he calls his aggressive style of play on the court, and to have a shot at earning a First Team All-Big Sky selection.
Vanguard: Why did you come to Portland State?
Chris Harriel:Well, when the Vikings recruited me it seemed like the best school for me. Their style of play fit my style, and the area wasn’t too bad. It isn’t too different from home, except for the rain.
V:What has been your best moment on the basketball court?
CH:I would probably have to say the Idaho State game [on Jan. 2]. I hit seven three-pointers and scored a career-high 25 points.
V: If you could change one of your sport’s rules, what would it be?
CH:I would change the fact that we can’t go to the tournament this year (laughing).
V:What is your greatest strength?
CH:I’m a hard worker, on and off the court.
V:Which is your favorite place to eat around campus?
CH:On campus: Chipotle. I get the queso chicken burrito.
V:What is your favorite thing to do around Portland?
CH:To shop! You have to take advantage of not having a sales tax. My favorite store is Compound in Old Town/China Town.
V:What is the first item that you would buy if you won the lottery?
CH:I would buy my parents a house, make sure my family’s okay and then save the rest and let it collect interest.
V:What is your most embarrassing moment on the court?
CH:During a home game in my senior year of high school I went up and missed a wide-open dunk.
V:Do you have any hidden talents?
CH:I can play the piano, but not that well.
V:What is the last thing you cooked?
CH:Fried chicken! When was that…Christmas (laughing)?
V: If you could attend one concert or sporting event anywhere, what would it be?
CH:I would go see a Big Sean show.
V:What has been your favorite class at Portland State?
CH:History—I like learning about the things that happened in the past and how they affect the future.
V:What’s on your iPod right now?
CH:Wale, Wiz Khalifa, Big Sean, Lil Wayne and Nipsey Hussle.
V: If you could have dinner with three people from history—alive, dead or fictional—who would they be?
CH:Michael Jordan, Martin Luther King, Jr. and Tupac.
V:Do you read the Vanguard?
CH:I read it every time I’m walking into the Stott Center. I skim through it to see what’s going on.
V: What song are you most likely to sing at karaoke?
CH:Well, what song would you sing?
V:I guess “All Star” by Smash Mouth; it’s the only one I’ve ever sung for karaoke.
CH:“Hey now you’re a…” That song?
V: Yeah, that one.
CH:Alright, then I’d do “All Star” too (laughing).
V:What is the last thing you read?
CH:Slam magazine; they had an edition on Michael Jordan.
V: Do you have a favorite superhero?
CH:Superman, because he’s invincible and he’s so smooth.
[This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.]