Two former Cochise College men’s basketball student-athletes compete for their respective countries at the Olympics in Tokyo.
As one of the youngest members, Patrick Samoura will represent his home nation of the Czech Republic as they attempt to qualify for the Summer Games in Tokyo. Samoura, the 6’6 guard, graduated in May with an associate of general studies degree. While attending Cochise College, he was part of the men’s basketball team from 2019-21 and contributed to the men’s basketball team winning two ACCAC titles, the region title, and most recently appearing at the national tournament. Samoura was named an NJCAA Academic All-American with a 4.0 GPA. “We are so proud of Pat,” Cochise Head Coach Jerry Carrillo said. “They just beat Greece, coached by Rick Pitino, in the Olympic qualifier in Canada last weekend. They also beat Canada.” Samoura started in game one versus Turkey in the qualifying tournament.
Nathan Sobey represents his country with the Australian Olympic Team. The 6’3 guard is no stranger to competing on the international stage. He also represented Australia in the 2018 Commonwealth Games and the 2019 FIBA World Cup. Sobey played for Cochise from 2010-12. He helped lead Cochise to an NJCAA Region I title and ACCAC title. While at Cochise, he was a First Team All-Conference, First Team Division I All-Region, and went on to play for the University of Wyoming. He is now an All-Star of the NBL in Australia. Sobey played for the Brisbane Bullets and was named to the First Team All-League this year. “Sobey made the 12 man roster for the Australian National Team, the Boomers,” Carrillo added. “They are in Las Vegas and will play Team USA next week. Making that roster with so many NBA players and prospects is quite the accomplishment.”
For the latest updates visit the Czech Republic Olympic games website.
Fans can read more about the Australian Olympic Team on their website.