Andalusia has enjoyed success on the court this season with the help of three seniors: Nico Johnson, Leslie James and Brandon Sims.

The Bulldogs (17-2, 5-0 in Class 4A, Area 3) clinched their area Tuesday night with their win over Hillcrest-Evergreen, 64-41.

Johnson and James each put up 11 points, while Sims scored 13.

All three say Andalusia coach Richard Robertson has influenced their lives, not only on the basketball court.

Johnson, James and Sims sat down with The Andalusia Star-News in an interview Wednesday before practice to talk about their experiences during the past four years.

What has it been like playing under coach Robertson for four years?

Leslie James: It’s been a privilege to me.

Nico Johnson: It’s been a privilege and it’s been tough and hasn’t been easy, I’ll tell you that. It’s hard work and it’s non-stop.

LJ: You’ve got to earn everything.

How has Robertson helped mold you as basketball players?

LJ: He’s stayed on us and has taught us to try and be better persons.

Brandon Sims: It’s been repetition mostly and not to give up.

NJ: Through basketball, he’s taught us a lot of life skills.

What is the most important thing he has taught you?

LJ: To be a man.

NJ: That you only get one chance in life.

BS: You need to get better every day.

Why do you play basketball?

LJ: We love it.

 Are there any players that you look up to in the NBA?

NJ: The player that I really looked up to was Michael Jordan.

BS: Lebron James.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

NJ: Me, in 10 years I hope to be in the NFL somewhere.

BS: I’d like to be a basketball coach.

LJ: Being a high-ranking FBI agent.

How do you feel the season has gone so far?

NJ: It’s been all right, but we should be undefeated right now. We’ve beaten ourselves with turnovers and a lack of execution. We’re supposed to be playing against perfection.

If you play against perfection and you win, the outcome will take care of itself.

How has this season been different than the other three?

NJ: To me, it’s been just trying to be a leader. In any other year, when I first started I was the follower in football and basketball.

What are a few things that have contributed to your team’s success this year?

NJ: Playing as a team and being there for each other.

BS: Practicing and staying on each other.

How has it been different having such a successful basketball season when you just got done with a losing season in football?

LJ: You get the chance to play those teams you did play in football and get your revenge back.

Why did you lose those games to Eufaula and Calera?

NJ: In the Eufaula game it was a lack of focus. In the Calera game, it was a lack of execution.

BS: We missed a lot of free throws.

These seniors will try and help their teammates claim another win in the area as they travel to face Thomasville Friday night.