It’s just like being at home

He may have arrived from Los Angeles only on Sunday, but new Printsync South West Slammers men’s import Terrell Carter already feels comfortable in Bunbury.

“With the beach it kind of feels like home,” he said. “I went to high school at Redondo Beach in California – and from the high school, you can see the beach.

“It has given me kind of a home feel and I don’t feel too out of place. The people are really nice that I have met so far as well.”

Carter played his college ball at Fresno State, where he became a fan favourite due to his commitment to work hard and bring life to the locker room.

Playing under coaches who prided themselves on getting the best out of their players, the 208cm centre believed playing at the Slammers would be the perfect opportunity to further his game.

“I’m at a point in my life where discipline is a big thing,” Carter said. “Which is me trying to stay continuously disciplined with my diet, my habits and training.

“I love having a coach who is trying to get you to the next step.”

Throughout Carter’s basketball career, he has enjoyed several supportive friendships – perhaps none more so than Fresno County district attorney Lisa Smittcamp – who the charismatic American refers to respectfully as “Ms Lisa”.

“It’s funny how we met,” Carter recalls. “She came and spoke to our team at Fresno State about the area.

“It was a long day, I was a freshman and I had my first two-a-day (training sessions) where we did weights and had a three hour practice before she spoke.

“I was so tired man and I fell asleep while she was talking. And she said ‘Mr Carter, can you repeat what I said?’

“And I said ‘I’m so sorry ma’am, I didn’t mean to not hear you’ – from there, her children and family have been close to me.

“I’ve got close relationships with her children, I went to baseball and volleyball games with them and she is kind of like my second mother in that aspect.

“Not a lot of people get blessed to meet people like Ms Lisa, so most definitely that made a big difference for me.”

Prior to participating in team activities on Tuesday night, Carter had lunch with fellow American import Tyler Livingston and discussed the current state of play.

“Tyler said that we have been hit with injuries and didn’t really have a true ‘five man’,” he said.

“He said that me coming here is going to help a lot by giving relief to a lot guys and allow them to play their natural positions.

“Obviously it is great to speak with somebody that you are going to spend time with.”