Khy Ray James may immediately catch people’s attention as “a 6’5 black kid that plays basketball.” However, Khy argues that “I’m more than that.” I recently had the chance to have a conversation with the University of New England’s incoming sophomore. We talked about his previous season on the court, but it soon became clear that Khy Ray James is much more than simply a player; he is a leader, a thinker, and someone who tries to change things on and off the court.

Ray’s development into a phenomenal basketball player started long before he enrolled in college. He was taught early on the importance of dedication, discipline, and hard work while growing up in Washington, D.C. “Basketball has always been my first love but I want to be known for my achievements off the court just as much,” said Ray. “My brothers made it clear that basketball comes to an end at one point and the real world starts.” His outlook on life has been influenced by that basis. Although he attended the University of New England to play basketball, his concentration goes well beyond the game.