Vanguard University

The Athlete: Billal is back in the Blue and Gold for his senior season?had a solid junior year for the Pride in 2009-2010?played in 25 games, starting 16 of those contests?averaged 6.4 points and three rebounds per game, in 21 minutes/contest?shot over 48 percent from the field?arrived at Vanguard via Saddleback Junior College in Mission Viejo, CA?played for Head Coach Andy Ground at Saddleback?prepped for Coach Keith Erickson at Eden Prairie High School in Eden Prairie, Minnesota?graduated in 2004 from EPHS, where he was named the most improved player on his team?other than his duties with VU, Azizi plays for the Afghanistan National team as well?has been playing basketball for 12 years?also played football in high school?solid post player who has an array of offensive skills?lefty who can shoot it outside or score in the paint?smart, deceptive player?will bolster the Vanguard frontline and should have a great senior year.

The Person: Billal was born September 12, 1985, to parents Sher and Ozra?born in Eden Prairie, Minnesota?has one brother and one sister, both older?known as "Billy"?majoring in Kinesiology at VUSC?likes to eat steak and shrimp?favorite movie is "Gladiator" and TV show is "Fresh Prince"?roots for the Minnesota Timberwolves?sports hero is LeBron James?favorite number is three and color is sky blue?hobbies include video games and playing cards?believes that respect is the top character trait to possess?most respects his sister?has learned that life is short, and to enjoy it while it lasts?basketball has taught him discipline, hard work, and dedication?career goal is to enjoy whatever he ends up doing and have great experiences with his family.

Coach Soliday's Comments: Billy is a smart player who gets a lot done on the court. He always finds ways to impact the game on both ends of the floor just by being alert and seeing the game. Billy is an outstanding young man who is a pleasure to coach.