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+----- Thread: GRADED: Pre-Draft Interview with Ben Kaufmann (/showthread.php?tid=6700)
GRADED: Pre-Draft Interview with Ben Kaufmann - Marmelad - 2025-04-03
Reporter: Ben, the draft is almost here. How are you feeling?
Ben Kaufmann: (Laughs) Man, it’s crazy. One second I’m pumped, the next I feel like I could throw up. It’s a mix of excitement, nerves, and just trying to stay grounded. I’ve dreamed about this moment forever, but now that it’s actually happening, it feels surreal.
Reporter: What has the preparation been like?
Ben Kaufmann: Honestly? It’s been non-stop. Training, meetings, working on every little detail. I’ve been pushing myself harder than ever, speed, finishing, decision-making, everything. But the hardest part isn’t the physical side, it’s the mental side. There’s so much talk around the draft—who’s ranked where, who’s going where—and it’s easy to get caught up in it. I’ve really tried to shut all that out and just focus on being the best version of myself.
Reporter: What kind of player is a team getting if they draft you?
Ben Kaufmann: They’re getting a guy who gives everything, every single day. I’m not the type to take it easy or wait for things to happen... I make things happen. I’m quick, I read the game well, and I love creating chances. But more than anything, I’m just hungry to improve. I don’t expect anything to be handed to me, I know I have to earn it.
Reporter: Is there a specific team you’d love to be drafted by?
Ben Kaufmann: Look, of course I’ve thought about it, but honestly? I just want to go where I’m wanted. Whether I’m picked early or late doesn’t matter to me. I just need one team to believe in me. Give me that opportunity, and I’ll prove I belong.
Reporter: What would it mean to you to hear your name called on draft night?
Ben Kaufmann: It would mean everything. This is what I’ve been working for my whole life. The sacrifices, the tough moments, the hours of training, everything has led to this. But at the same time, I know this isn’t the finish line. It’s just the start. Getting drafted doesn’t mean you’ve made it, you still have to prove yourself every single day. And that’s exactly what I plan on doing.
Reporter: Ben, thanks for your time. Can’t wait to see where you end up!
Ben Kaufmann: Appreciate it! Can’t wait either!