In Their Own Words: Pierre Crockrell II

Asian American Pacific Islander month is a special time for me to celebrate my culture and represent my family. Being half Korean, I am able to experience and embrace the Korean culture but the Pacific Islander culture as well because my mom is from Hawai'i.  Growing up, I did not have many Asian American role models, so now I’m trying to be a good role model for the younger generation. I faced many challenges in basketball, like being overlooked and not passing the eye test, were just a couple of the struggles I faced in the basketball community. 

The individuals I look up to on campus are one of my coaches, Michael Wilder, who is of Pacific Islander decent, has been successful here at UC Irvine, and a great role model to the AAPI community.  I also admire my teammate Andre Henry, women's basketball student-athlete Nikki Tom, and women's basketball head coach Tamara Inoue. They are proof that Asian Americans can play and compete at the Division I level here at UCI. If you work hard you can achieve great things. 

The month of May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month and UC Irvine Athletics is proud to celebrate the history, culture and achievements of our Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander staff, student-athletes and community.