BETHLEHEM, Pa. --- The next alum in the Moravian College Department of Athletics & Recreation's Get to Know Series is former men's basketball student-athlete Brandon Zaleski from the Class of 2005. Zaleski holds the school record with 1,891 points during his career to go along with 723 career rebounds, and he was inducted into Moravian's Hall of Fame in 2016.
Brandon Zaleski
Class: 2005
How did you choose the sport you played when you were growing up? I chose basketball because from the day I was able to leave my parents' house on my bicycle, all the neighborhood kids would get together at a couple different courts around our small town. We would play until it was too dark out and it was terrible loosing because you had to wait to get back on the court. It became addictive and kept me out of trouble.
Why did you choose to come to Moravian College? I chose Moravian because the great coaching staff always had someone at one of my high school games and I really felt comfortable when I visited the campus…they were also one of the few programs which didn't promise me any playing time if I decided to go there…I remember being taken back at the time when Coach Walker & Coach Potts told me this on my campus visit…and remembered thinking "I'm going to show them."
What experiences as a student-athlete at Moravian helped prepare you for life after college? I tried to do as much (and be involved as much) as I could while at Moravian. I double majored in Business Mgmt & Criminal Justice, was on the basketball team, worked in a restaurant in the off-season, and was part of multiple programs and groups on campus. I multi-tasked then and that's pretty much what I do now.
How did you get into your current occupation? My friend's father (Wayne Crowell) was this crazy entrepreneur who had a great family, was doing amazing things with real estate development, was a body builder, a fireman, highly respected by a lot of people, and seemed to have it all together other than a couple loose screws which I found to be fascinating. He mentored me and was a very large contributing factor as to where I am now in business, and in life.
What was your favorite place on campus? Johnson Hall…I wish I could have just put a mattress on the hardwood and slept there.
What activities/organizations were you involved in at Moravian College as a student-athlete? SAM, SACC, JSC, RA, RD, Student Athlete Leadership Conference
What was your most memorable moment at Moravian? It snowed 30+ inches one winter storm my freshman year…we still had practice…but had a great time in the snow.
What advice do you have for prospective student-athletes looking to attend Moravian College? If you are looking for a great school, with a rich history, and a place where teachers, faculty, and students will get to know you on a personal level then Moravian is a great place for you.
What advice do you have for current student-athletes as they approach graduation? The next step is scary but great…when the majority of your life is revolved around training, and being a part of a team, and a sport that you have given so much of your time and dedication to it's a terrible feeling when you finally have that last game/match…but adapt and overcome…take chances, don't be afraid to make mistakes, always keep pushing, enjoy life and always be thankful.
What is the best piece of advice you've been given? Think big and realize that nobody is going to hand you anything, you'll have to work for everything you want…but it is all obtainable.
Who are your role models/most influential people? My parents Merle & Don Zaleski, Wayne Crowell, Jim Forestiere, Michael Jordan
Which three people, living or dead, would you like to share a meal with? My deceased father Don Zaleski, (my wife and 3 kids any chance I get), Coach Jim Walker
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise most people. I've had over 50 stiches in my face due to basketball throughout my years of playing. Love it!
Quick Hits:
Favorite Color – Red & Black
Favorite Food – Macintosh apples
Favorite Restaurant – The Former Minsi Trail Inn of Bethlehem PA
Favorite Movie – Braveheart
Favorite TV Show – I don't really watch TV
Favorite Musical Artist – Kenny Chesney
Favorite Athlete – Michael Jordan
Favorite Pro Team – Chicago Bulls
Hobbies – Anything my kids are into & real estate.
Most Prized Possession – 3 Kids (Madison, Ryder, & Hailey)
Ideal Travel Destination – South Seaside Park, N.J.
Your Spirit Animal – Wolf
Superpower you'd Like to Have – The ability to stop time
