Times Union In track and basketball, Johnston makes a name Nastassja Johnston is a standout in both basketball and track and field at Columbia. A fierce competitor, Johnston is friendly enough not to correct anyone that has been spelling her first name incorrectly (most believe it to be Nastasja). The 2014 state Division 1 long jump champion, Johnston scored a season-high 22 points Tuesday when the Blue Devils (6-4, 5-3) snapped a four-game losing streak with a 67-50 Suburban Council victory against Averill Park. Q: How do you feel the basketball season has gone so far? A: Not as good as I would like. I think we can do better, especially with games coming up with Colonie and Guilderland. We have a lot more to show. Q: Last season had to be frustrating at times because you did not always have all of the starters on the floor because of injuries. How hard is that to deal with?? A: It is very tough. Last year, basically we struggled because we didnt have everyone healthy. It was hard for me, really very frustrating. Q: There was a lot of shake up in the Suburban Council last week with your win over Averill Park, Shaker beating Shenendehowa and Bethlehem defeating Shaker. There does not seem to be that much division among the top Class AA teams. Does that make you excited for the playoffs? A: Yes, definitely. We are striving to beat Bethlehem. We felt we should have beat Shaker. We all have to be up to par when we play teams like Shen, Shaker and Bethlehem. I know we can beat them. Q: As a multi-sport athlete, many associate you with track and field. I know you take a great deal of pride in basketball. Is your approach the season you are currently in matters most? A: I love basketball. I have always loved basketball since I was a little kid, but I have really figured out that I have a love for track and field, too. I have worked hard in track, and basketball comes naturally to me. Even though basketball isnt what I will pursue in college, I am giving it my all in my last year. Q: The top seed in the Class AA playoffs has found it difficult to win the title recently. Given how the 2014-15 season has gone so far, and knowing recent playoff history, do you think Columbia can surprise some people and make a run at the title? A: I hope and pray we can. I know in my heart we can, it is just everyone has to have the same mind-set. Q: Why do you play basketball? A: I would say winning with a group of friends you have been with for such a long time, where you share the hard moments and the winning. You want what is best for your team. Q: Are you looking for a big spring track and field season? A: Absolutely. Q: Do you have a major in mind? A: I want to study physical science and kinesiology. I want to be a physical therapist.
Posted on: Tue, 20 Jan 2015 00:41:47 +0000
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