Q and A with Majic Dorsey: And 1 Basketball, Mexico, and Advice For Hopeful Prospects

During the summer of 2009 while working as the Video Coordinator at Pro Player Video we received a video from a player named Majic Dorsey.  Remembering him from the "And 1" tour show that was on ESPN I was interested in seeing how he played traditional basketball.  As I edited his tape I leaned over to one of the interns who was working for me to come watch.  This guy Majic Dorsey was one of the quickest players I had ever seen editing tape with Pro Player Video.  I have been watching his numbers, like most clients who come in with us, ever since. 
Later, as I have become the Head of Marketing at Pro Player Video Majic Dorsey's name has popped up on various occasions.  I have heard absolutely nothing but good things about the Baltimore, MD native and his impact not only in his community but with the fan base.  Hearing he was a great teammate and friend I wanted to get a hold of him to hear his story and relay what has made him successful.  His path to success has not always been traditional, but it certainly is entertaining.

Majic Dorsey's Basketball Resume



You are a very exciting player to watch.  Where did you develop this style of play?  Was there a player you styled your game after?
Thanks a lot for considering me an exciting player to watch. The style of my play I bring to the table is formed by the way I grew up in the streets of Baltimore.  Every player had their own style to the street game and I was the one that always put on a show for the fans.  It carries over to my pro game because I can switch up my style at any moment to get the job done. There was a player by the name of Kevin Norris (aka stank) who played for the University of Miami who was a street hero on the courts in Baltimore.  I always got a show when I saw him play.  I would always tell myself I wanted to be like him when I grew up. 

Obviously a lot of die-hard basketball fans remember your stint with 'And 1' basketball.  Describe the experience.

Yes, "And 1" made me popular around the world from the ESPN show.  It was a blessing to be on the TV show and on the Playstation video game.  It was fun.  All the players were cool and "And 1" company took care of me well with perks like 10 boxes of shoes at a time, unlimited clothes, good money, and travel.



How difficult is it to make the transition from the style of play that 'And 1' showcases to the standard team game of professional basketball?

It's not hard for me because I'm a professional first and a street ball player second. Most players can't switch it up, but for me it's not hard.

You have spent time at NBA camps and in the D-League; have there been any people you were just blown away to meet or learn from?

When I was invited to NBA Pre-Draft camp the Atlanta Hawks brought me in for workout.  Dominique Wilkins was working for the Hawks at the time, and I was amazed by his humble spirit and for treating me like one of his friends.

You've spent a significant amount of time playing in Mexico.  What is it about the environment that you really enjoy that keeps bringing you back?

Merida,Yucatan is the most amazing place I have ever been.  The people there really took me in as their hero on and off the court.  I love the food, the way I live there and how they took me in.  It's my second home away from America.



Being from Florida and having a rich Hispanic tradition in the state was the transition very difficult?  What are some of the aspects of the culture you love and what do you really miss while out of the country?

When I'm out of the country I miss my family. Other than that, I don't get homesick because I'm at work and have to be focused.  The fans pay their hard earned money to watch us play. I can't put on a good show if I am homesick. 

When a young player is getting their first contract overseas what advice would you give them to help them stick?

Don't get homesick, stay humble and embrace the culture like it's your own. Go hard on the court and things will be fine.

What part of the professional game or lifestyle really caught you off guard or surprised you once you made the transition?

The women.  It's amazing how some of them will do anything just to say they know you and or have been with you. Also friends who weren't there when you weren't a pro, but now they're your buddy-buddy.

In past interviews agents have said they look for coach-able guys who don't make them worry with decisions off the court.  What are some things a young player should look out for to not only be a good player but a good person?

The number one thing is surround yourself with positive people. If you hang with the wrong crowd you will live the wrong way, lose your job playing and doing what you love.

There are a lot of people out there who talk about a good agent and video being key in your exposure.  How important are both of these factors when it comes to displaying your talent?

It's one of the biggest things to the game. It is all about knowing the right people and also having good game film online. It's a job and you have to keep a good resume because it builds every year and with every team. Do the right thing.  As for a agent, pick the right one because they will screw you over because they are all about the money.  It is important to get one that looks how for your best interests.

A lot of guys have questions about healthy eating.  What type of diet do you recommend to allow yourself to play at a high level for a long time?


No fast food, es no bueno.  Hahahaha.

Who are some of the people you attribute your success to?

God, family and God again.  I certainly believe myself for being as dedicated to what I want to become in life, so that is why I work so hard. Also Daunte Culpepper and Larry Tucker who have been there through everything, always keep me humble and show me the right road to take.  So much love to them also.