Pietra Gay has been a trailblazer for T&T in the field of women's basketball. She was the first Trinidadian to play in the WNBA and has enjoyed an illustrious career playing for several international basketball teams including Spain, Turkey, Greece, Italy, England and Puerto Rico to name a few. Presently, Pietra spends her time between T&T and the USA as a basketball coach, and more importantly, as a mentor to young people.
What drives your passion for basketball?
The love I have for the game of basketball drives me and the young lives I can change along the way.
What do you consider the highlight of your career?
Playing in the WNBA
How did the opportunity playing for the WNBA come along?
After finishing my education at Louisiana State University I was drafted to Houston Comets from 1997-2001
What did you enjoy most about playing for the WNBA?
The atmosphere
What is your state of mind right now?
I am very humble and give praises to the man above everyday, thanking Him for His blessings.
Why did you return to Trinidad after being given such a golden opportunity?
By returning to Trinidad with my knowledge and valuable experience I can help develop the sport of basketball here.
How do you perceive the current state of basketball in this country ?
Very low at this present time.
Given your hectic schedule, are you able to balance a personal life?
Yes. I am able tobalance it some how.
What do you admire most in a man?
His Independence.
What is your secret wish?
I wish I could dunk a basketball.
What do people NOT know about Pietra Gay?
That I am very passionate and I love helping people in anyway that I can.
Who would you say is your mentor?
My mentor is God. I walk by FAITH, not by SIGHT.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Always give 110%, don't ever give less.
What advice would you give those wishing to enter your field?
Play because you love or like the game, the rewards are in them both. Leave everything on the court. This means when you are finished with practice, a game, even your career, make sure you have no regrets when you are ready to walk away.
What is your personal credo?
Believing in myself, Life is too short to be anything but HAPPY. Falling down is a part of LIFE... Getting back up is LIVING!!!
How do you view your success so far?
In life I won, not because I traveled the world or played on this team or with that player or on TV. I won because I played basketball and got a free education. With a college degree I was able to set myself up to do the things I love, which are coaching basketball and helping others to keep their dreams alive... Now that's winning!!!