Vaughn Autry

Year:
Freshman
Hometown:
Gardena, Calif.

Quoting Head Coach Wayne Tinkle: "He is a talented combo guard from the L.A. area whose team won the 3A championship. He probably is physically ready to play as any freshman we've had in awhile. He can really defend and has a been strong body. He can handle the ball versus pressure and make some plays. We are really excited about his future. He lost his father in the middle of his senior year and has fought through some tough times. But he's a high-character kid, and we're certainly glad he's a Grizzly."

Vaughn at a glance: He will very likely contribute right away, if not earn a starting job.

High School: Was a two-time all-state, All-C.I.F., all-area, and all-conference pick...his senior year at Junipero Serra High School won the state 3A championship, and he averaged 19.6 points, 7.0 rebounds, and 4.0 rebounds a game...also lettered in football...senior team went 34-2 en route to the state title...team captain and MVP in basketball...junior hoop squad went 24-4 and was runners-up for the C.I.F. championship...junior year he averaged 16.7 points per game, and he set a league record with nine steals in a game...chosen league MVP following his junior season...high school basketball coach was Dwan Hurt.

Personal: His major is communications, and he hopes to pursue a career as a sports broadcaster. Birth date: April 28, 1992. His mom is Dionne Autry of Los Angeles.

A PERSONAL LOOK AT VAUGHN:
Favorite Food: Mexican.
Favorite class: Writing 101.
Favorite book: The Black Thang.
Favorite TV show: Entourage, Sportscenter.
Favorite musical group: Young Money.
Favorite movie: Pard in Full.
If a movie were made of my life, I would like the following actor to play me: Vince Vaughn.
The person in history I would most like to meet is: Malcom X.
Favorite sport other than basketball: Soccer.
Favorite sports figure: Rajon Rondo, Brandon Roy.
Favorite NBA team: Memphis Grizzlies.
Hobbies/Special Interests: Collecting shoes, long walks on the beach, chilling.
Not many people know this, but I: play the guitar.
My greatest moment in sports was: When I scored 53 points last summer.
If I were not playing college hoops, I would be: at a historical black college.
The best player I ever faced was: Brandon Jennings.
The thing I like best about Montana basketball is: we win and we run.
The thing that impresses me about Coach Tinkle: That he is.
My advice to youngsters is: stay away from drugs and alcohol.
My future goals are: to be successful.
Why did you choose to play for the Grizzlies: College town and they were Big Sky Champions.