Your mother, Godelieve, is originally from Rwanda. What did that legacy mean to you growing up, and what kinds of conversations have you had with him about it?
I don’t have much. I’m starting to understand it more. I have just come back from there. As I’ve grown older, I understand it more. Characteristics of a Rwandan person are: resilience, ambition, coming from such a difficult path but still forgiving those around him and striving towards a better future.
There are plenty of second-generation hoopers in the league now – Steph Curry, Devin Booker, Dylan Harper… the list goes on and on. Your father, Albert, played four years of Division II ball at Wayne State. How did being the son of a basketball player impact your development?
I mean, the intangible was the high I got from it. (Laughs.) But yes, basketball is in his blood. He loves sports and taught me qualities like hard work and determination through sports. I’m excited to carry on what he started and represent him and my family.
Courtesy of Paolo Dizon
A few hours later, after the Bucks selected Ament 13th overall, I caught up with him briefly before he left to celebrate with his family.
You’re going to Milwaukee! Tell me how it felt when your name was called.
A lot of emotions, most of which are pride and happiness to represent my family.
You’re joining the Bucks after the blockbuster Giannis trade. How excited are you to show Milwaukee what you can do?
I am very excited. Big shoes to fill, but this is a great opportunity for me and Brayden (Burrows was selected 10th overall by the Bucks) to show them what we’ve got, and try to get them back to the championship level they’re at.
