This series lets you get to know the men and women from our national team programs. This time we discover Brampton, Ontario native Tamara Tatham who is currently playing for professional club Piestanske Cajky in the Slovakia-Extraliga.

Canada Baskeball (CB):  You've been a part of the national team program for 8 years, what does it mean to you to play for Canada?

Tamara Tatham (TT): Playing for my country is the ultimate honour! No feeling like having the word Canada written across my chest as I rep my country in the sport I love.

CB: 2013 was a fantastic year for the Senior Women's National Team that ended with a FIBA Americas silver medal - and a berth at next year's FIBA World Championships. What was your best memory of this past summer? Which game or moment stands out most for you?

TT: It is amazing that we qualified for the Worlds! Of course we wanted gold but Cuba played their butts off so we can’t argue that at all!  My best memory this summer was not only making the Worlds but also reaching my 100th game mark with the national team.  It was in China and after the game I was presented with amazing flowers!  Definitely a moment to remember forever.

CB: Outside of ball, what are you looking forward to the most this year?

TT: Well, this year my big brother is getting married!  I am so excited about the wedding and very happy for him and his fiancé. Plus, it will be my first time attending a wedding.

CB: When you are playing in Europe, what do you miss most about Canada?

TT: When playing overseas, I miss the variety of food I can get in Canada.  While I’m away, I usually just stick to what I know because I’m actually not good at trying new things.

CB: Do you have any pre-game rituals?

TT: My pre-game ritual is listening to music and clearing my head with prayer.

CB: You had the honour of playing for Canada at the 2012 London Olympics - what do you remember most about that experience? Was there a highlight?

TT: Playing at the Olympic Games was an unreal experience and I wouldn't trade it for anything.  There were a lot of highlights but what I remember the most is the Opening Ceremonies and all the lights. I've seen it on TV before and it’s such an honour to actually get the chance to be a part of that.  The highlight of my experience at the Olympic Games was getting to share that moment and experience with my sister.

CB: What advice do you have for young Canadian kids, looking to progress in basketball?

TT: Play because you have passion and drive! To be the best player you can be takes time, effort, and commitment! Making the Olympics is not every 4 years, it’s every day for 4 years…work hard for what you want!

‍