“Basketball was my Sanctuary…I played for the love of it.” Baton Rouge native, and former NBA player, Tyrus Thomas discusses his love for basketball, where his passion originated, and his journey from LSU to becoming the 4th Overall pick in the NBA. As Tyrus transitions in his career from being a player to coaching, he highlights the importance of education and the power academics play for athletes, mental health, the negative influence social media can play in sports, and how parents can meet the needs of their potential athletes without skipping steps.