About twelve years ago at Vancouver’s Kits Beach courts, I had the opportunity to meet an energetic, tempo pushing point guard named Joey “King Handles” Haywood. Although younger and smaller than anyone on the court, King Handles had a blend of confidence and arrogance that would serve him well throughout his future. Inspired by his older brother Gary and a ball handling wizard from volume 1 of the AND1 mixtape series by the name of Skip To My Lou, Haywood learned to play the game with a passion and flare. After trailblazing through the US and Japan as part of NOTIC, AND1 and YPA ball crews during the early part of the decade, I recently had the chance to catch up with the BC point guard who is currently averaging 25ppg and 6apg in approximately 37 minutes of floor time for the Saint Mary’s Huskies.

Fast forwarding to his rookie year at Langara College, a young Handles found himself in a different type of hoops battle, as his style and attitude clashed with his coach. Leaving the program halfway through the season, because of the conflict, Haywood looks back now and believes that everything happened for a reason, one which lead him to the opportunity to grow as a person and travel the world, learning about different people and cultures that would have an impact on who is he today.

SL – Hitting the streetball scene at an early age, you created quite a stir for a city that wasn’t ready for that style. Why was the streetball game not as accepted in Vancouver as it was in the US and overseas?

JH – It wasn’t accepted in masses right away. The younger crowd enjoyed it, but the older guys kept wanting us to stick to the fundamentals. HOOP IT UP gave us a big crowd, whether they liked us or not, we still got a crowd, which in the end gave us our name and status in the city. Vancouver wasn’t ready for us at the time, which was too bad because we (NOTIC) were a group of kids trying to stay out of trouble and just do our own thing with basketball. It was funny because while we had a large following of youth and young adults cheering us on for our tricks, at the same time we had people trying to knock us down because we weren’t fundamental enough for them. Unfortunately most of the guys don’t play a lot of ball anymore, but it was crazy while it lasted, we were celebrities to some people, doing more than what other kids our ages were doing. It was cool, but some of the Notic crew didn’t really grow from it basketball wise. Vancouver is more of a fundamental basketball culture and it was a huge change that we brought to the city.

It was the same streetball fame that brought a cloud of darkness to the young pg’s “kingdom” as comments were made in a SLAM magazine piece, outlining his feelings on the streetball circuit, basketball race and how the game was viewed in Vancouver. Looking back on the article now, Haywood admits that he was just really mad at basketball in general and the city he lived in. Despite all his hard work and efforts, he felt that his style wasn’t accepted by the coaches and fans. After trying out for numerous “elite” and “provincial” teams and in his opinion not only handling (excuse the pun) his own, but dominating others, he was left off rosters.

Being a self described “hothead”, Haywood looks back at the fact that a number of people offered to help him on his basketball path, but never came through with their promises, leaving him to create something of himself on his own. In his early twenty’s Haywood started to understand the importance of increasing his fundamental skills, but as a 17-18 year old, some positive direction would have been appreciated. Although as he says “he did not intend to piss anyone off with the article”, even today Haywood doesn’t really regret stating his opinion as he, like many, believe that things happen for a reason and that maybe if he didn’t speak his mind at the time, it wouldn’t have opened not only other people’s eyes towards him, but more importantly his eyes towards what would be best for his future.

Taking advantage of the both the moment and his abilities, King Handles hit the larger scale streetball circuit with the YPA and AND1, along with a tour of Japan. Brought over by the P-Players crew, the different opportunity to check out different cultures and talent was something too good to pass up, and something that may not have been available had he not left Langara. In an environment described as far more advanced than North America, be it through academics, technology and what was even more surprising on the basketball scene with players laced head to toe in all the freshest gear.

SL – Did you ever see yourself playing a starting (and staring) role for a university team, averaging 25ppg and 5 apg, after your struggles at Langara?

JH – Honestly, I didn’t think that it would happen, but because I didn’t see a financial future with the streetball circuit, I needed to make a decision. AND1 wanted me to sign in 2008, but I really wanted to go to school and get my future set. Whether I have a future with basketball professionally down the road or not, I needed to make sure that I had something to fall back on for myself and my family. It’s funny though because right now I’m doing some of the same things that I was at Langara, just on a smaller scale. I am still playing with the same energy and passion, from time to time you might see a couple of quick crosses, but this time I’m nailing the jumper, whereas before sometimes people thought I just wanted to clown someone.

Over the past couple of years, Haywood has parlayed his talent and opportunity at St. Mary’s into becoming one of the country’s elite floor generals and would like to pursue his goal of playing at the professional level, however this time around he knows that there is still some work left to do. I asked Joey to give his thoughts on some of the doors that may have been opened to him.

Overseas – If the money was right, I might go, but it would need to be a situation that would help me be financially secure for a while. I could go back to school after I am finished or take summer courses, but if it wasn’t something that would give me security, I would rather finish my time here at St. Mary’s and get my psychology degree.

Globetrotters – I don’t know about joining the Globetrotters, they are cool and everything, but I want to move on completely from the streetball style to play legit, professional ball. The Trotters are a great squad, but that time has passed me.

Canadian National Team – Any opportunity to play for my country is a good thing. I had a chance once in 2008, but at the time my focus was elsewhere. Again, I don’t regret it, but if I am given another opportunity, I will definitely not pass it up. It is one of the reasons why I went back to school. It certainly help me get some exposure for my game to the professional leagues, as well as helping the team get to that next level. As of now I haven’t heard anything official from Team Canada, but I did have a chance to speak with the team from Trinidad and Tobago, which I would love to go play for if I can’t get on with the Canadian program. It would be an honor to represent for my parents home country.

While many hoop fans were introduced to “King Handles”, few have met Joey Haywood. Although focused on his future, Haywood has not forgotten his past or what has gotten him to this point. ” It’s a new Joey Haywood, I think King Handles is the old me, and while you might see a glimpse of him every now and then, I have a better understanding of what it takes for me and my team to be successful”. ” I want people to see me for the all the hard work that I have put in and that I am proving that I can do more than just streetball”. About five or six years ago, one might have walked into Bonsor Community Centre, or strolled along Kits Beach, and found Haywood working on tricks to better his chances of getting on with YPA or AND1, but over the past couple of years, Haywood has traded those tricks in and has focused on working on knocking down pull ups and three pointers on a consistent basis. “I don’t think I’m satisfied with where I am at right now, I don’t think that I am ever really going to be satisfied with my game”. While many have spoken those same words, few have worked as hard to change their game and live up to the statement.

During that one sunny day at Kits Beach, I met “King Handles” and over time I watched him from a distance, at times baffled by some of his decisions, but a fan of his ability. Last year, I had the honor of playing with the man, the myth, the legend, however this time it wasn’t “King Handles”…..this time I was introduced to Joey Haywood.

First off, congratulations on being a key contributor to the Canadian National Team qualifying for the World Championships for the first time since 2002! What were the feelings amongst the team after the victory against the Dominican Republic? Do you think you matched, exceeded or fell short of any personal or team goals during the games?

The team was naturally ecstatic after beating the Dominican, as was I. Our goal the entire summer was to qualify for the worlds and we accomplished that. We were fortunate enough to get some second chances and despite a few up and downs we were left with one deciding game. I think we definitely surprised a lot of people by qualifying. We also decided as a team that despite a few losses we could give ourselves a chance to accomplish our goal. We had a team meeting after losing to Argentina and really came together against Brazil, despite losing, and were clicking when it mattered most against the DR.

Now that the FIBA America Games are completed and the team heads off in their separate directions, will you have a chance to play with or against any of your teammates before regrouping next summer? I believe that part of the reason some of the European teams and the US squad are successful is because they have the opportunity to do so, whereas the Canadian players are more scattered throughout the various leagues.

It doesn’t look like I’ll meet any of my teammates this year although it’s still possible. I think that the European teams have success because they are taught to play as a team from the beginning. They play that style of basketball regardless of who they’re playing with. Obviously having a similar group of players together every summer makes for better chemistry, evidence of which we are starting to see with our own program.

You are one of the longest tenured members currently on the Senior National team (since 05) how do you feel about being one of the veteran players?

It’s nice to be considered a ‘veteran’, although I’m not much older than most of the guys. Maybe just a few more summer stories than some. I try to step up as a leader when the opportunity arises. I tend to be lead by example type of guy but also enjoy ‘coaching’ guys through stuff as it happens, using my basketball IQ to help others.

Where did the nickname “Road Warriors” come from?

I think the “Road Warriors” thing came from the minds at the Canada basketball office. Since we almost never get a chance to play at home and spend endless hours flying in the summer the name was only fitting.

Does all the talk of adding Nash, Bonner, and Magloire have a positive or negative impact on the team? While it is always positive to add great talent, do you guys sometimes feel like, give us credit for what this crew can do?

Well personally I hear almost none of that talk. We are so far removed from the gossip in Canada while we’re playing that most of it goes unheard. I think we maybe feel a little shorthanded but having the best players represent your country is what it’s all about. It’s unfortunate that guys who were on the team that qualified could be losing out on a spot to play at the world championships. But then again that’s the nature of the beast and the type of thing that breeds a competitive atmosphere.

How do you feel about the fact that Team Canada hardly gets to play in front of hometown fans, whereas the US and other participating countries have more of an opportunity either with exhibition games, tournaments or global events (FIBA, WC, Olympics)

It’s unfortunate that we’re unable to get much exposure but I think with further success and a developing program it’ll get better. I had more than enough people say to me “We have a national basketball team?” The fact that our game was televised on the score this year is a good step in building some interest throughout the country and maybe getting some funding or tournaments at home.

At what stage in your career did you / have you had the most fun playing the game? Kits, Pitt, National Team, Pro? Why?

Every stage of my career has had its moments for sure. Winning the provincials and thinking we were the hottest thing in school was great. The entire college experience, despite its ups and downs, was something out of a movie. It’s a truly unique experience that was full of fun. Other than a few big wins with the national team, the friendships and times traveling/hanging out etc… is one of the reasons I come back every summer.

Kendall denying Melo's finish @ 2008 State Farm Challenge. Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images

Continuing along the basketball road, what are your future professional goals? Are you planning on staying overseas, NBDL, NBA?

Well the NBA is always something I strive for. I feel like I could compete at that level given the opportunity. I still need to improve and continue to get better but I think it’s attainable. Moving up the ranks in the European leagues is always a constant goal of mine. To be competing at the Euro league level and on one of the top teams is something I hope to achieve soon.

You have been playing overseas for three years now, why do you think that the European Leagues have the ability to succeed, whereas until now with the two IBL teams (Vancouver and Edmonton) Canadian leagues have struggled or been nonexistent.

Well the most obvious factor is money. If there was the type of financial support there is in Europe a Canadian league might stand a chance. With that support comes better players and better basketball. Another thing the leagues have going for them over here is the club system. Kids are raised playing sports for a particular club and grow up to be supporters of those clubs. Therefore there is a larger sense of pride and support for the teams over here.

Did the Vancouver Titans approach you about playing for them in the IBL?

I was approached by the Titans. Although I opted to take some time off since it was the first opportunity I’ve had to take more than three weeks off in the past seven or so years.

Based on your response, combining the well deserved and needed rest and your commitment to Team Canada, it appears that there will be very little chance to see you in a Titans uniform next season let alone as part of the summer tournament scene in Vancouver (Dolphin Basketball Classic, Kits fest and Hoop fest). While I am sure it is an out of this world opportunity to play for the national team, has there ever been a moment in which you wanted to kick back and take in some of these events?

I would definitely like to be a part of some of the local summer events. Vancouver is such a special place (particularly in the summer) and to enjoy those great environments and atmosphere’s while playing ball would be a blast. Then again playing in the world championships isn’t a bad alternative.

You have been rumoured to enjoy some of the “extreme sports” in the offseason (mountain biking, cliff diving, white water rafting etc). How have your coaches at any of the levels you have played at felt about this? We certainly wouldn’t want to group you with Vlad Radmanovic and Monta Ellis!

I got a funny story from my first year overseas. I spent about three months riding the pine and in the dog house for reasons I couldn’t figure out. I was playing great in practice and dominating but not getting any court time. My agent was relaying word that the management wasn’t happy because they thought I didn’t care enough about basketball and that I had too many other interests. I wasn’t focused enough and was happy playing the piano or going to the beach etc… At the end of the season the guy playing ahead of me was hurt so I played the last few games of the season. Our team achieved our goal of finishing 3rd in the playoffs and I happened to be at the top of the leader board in evaluation among all the players in the playoffs. And guess what, the management attributed my success and ability to bounce back after not playing for so long. My diversified interest in life and the fact that I wasn’t too caught up in the bs… go figure.

I tend not to worry too much about how the coaches react. If it has a negative effect on my playing or practicing they can let me know. I have been a little more careful with my escapades then when I was younger but life is here to be lived! Same goes for my ‘radical’ hair cuts that often get a comment or two from the coaching staff. If it affects my jumper I’ll cut it off ha-ha.

PROGRAMS
The WCBL and HOOPFEST programs provide a setting for young and mature adults a competitive basketball environment, which many have used following a successful post secondary or professional career. With the WCBL running during the fall/winter season and HOOPFEST in the summer, the community is provided with an opportunity for intense basketball action.
The KINGS OF THE COURT program gives today’s youth in a variety of different age divisions, an opportunity to develop their individual and teamwork skills both on and off the court.