Q&A with Bryan Muso: A Journey of Basketball, Resilience, and Personal Growth

Bryan Moussako, a current player on the NYU basketball team, shared insights about his athletic journey, the challenges he faced, and the importance of mental health in sports. From his beginnings in Glen Ridge to overcoming setbacks in college, Brian’s story is one of determination and passion for the game.

Q: Bryan thanks for joining us! To start, can you tell us about your upbringing in Glen Ridge and your early experiences in sports?

Bryan Moussako: Thanks for having me! I grew up in Glen Ridge, where I started playing basketball at a young age. I always had a natural talent for it, but my mom encouraged me to explore other sports as well. After moving from Manhattan, I was introduced to football, lacrosse, and soccer. I had a challenging start—I got two concussions in football and struggled to even hold the lacrosse stick. But I was pretty fast in soccer until other kids caught up athletically. Ultimately, basketball was the sport I always gravitated towards and put the most time and effort into. It became my passion, and I knew I wanted to pursue it further.

Q: You mentioned trying various sports before committing to basketball. How did those experiences shape your decision to focus solely on basketball?

Bryan Moussako: Each sport taught me something different, but it was clear that basketball was where my skills and passion aligned best. While I enjoyed trying different activities, nothing compared to the natural fit I felt with basketball. It was a combination of talent and dedication—something that just clicked for me, and I decided to chase that. The more I practiced and played, the more I fell in love with the game.

Q: Transitioning to college can be tough for many athletes. What was your journey like when you moved to Franklin & Marshall?

Bryan Moussako: My freshman year at Franklin & Marshall was a rollercoaster. I wasn’t highly recruited and decided to walk on. Initially, I was really excited after a couple of practices, but things took a turn when I was cut from the team. It was devastating because I had put in so much effort preparing for that moment. Afterward, I had to reassess my situation and find a way to keep moving forward. I spent the next year reaching out to other schools and deciding what I wanted to do next.

Q: How did you manage the emotional turmoil after being cut from the team at Franklin & Marshall?

Bryan Moussako: It was a tough time, and I took it pretty hard. I had long talks with my mom, who was really supportive. She always reminded me that I could only control my reactions to situations and that I could shape my destiny. That mindset helped me to not let that setback define me. I kept working hard and eventually found my way to NYU, where the opportunity to play basketball presented itself.

Q: You mentioned your mother being a strong support system. Were there other people or resources that helped you during this challenging time?

Bryan Moussako My mom was definitely my rock, but I also found that connecting with others was crucial. Outside of basketball, I tried to explore new interests to take my mind off things. I even started a podcast during my freshman year! Finding joy in different avenues and sharing stories with people around me helped me cope with the ups and downs.

Q: When it comes to mental health, how do you feel about the stigma surrounding athletes and vulnerability?

Bryan Moussako: I believe it’s important for athletes to show vulnerability. Historically, there’s been a stigma about male athletes expressing emotions, but that’s changing. Within my team at NYU, we have an open culture where mental health is prioritized, and it’s okay to talk about struggles. Being open about your feelings can actually be a strength. If your mental health isn’t in a good place, it will affect your performance on the court.

Q: Have you faced any criticism, either from coaches or online, and how do you deal with it?

Bryan Moussako: Absolutely. There was a moment after a poor performance when I saw some negative comments, and it stung. But I learned to focus on what I can control. Rather than letting the negativity get to me, I channeled that energy into improvement. Sometimes, I even step away from social media if it becomes too much. It’s crucial to block out distractions and negativity.

Q: What advice do you have for younger athletes who might be feeling pressure or facing challenges?

Bryan Moussako: I always emphasize the importance of mental health. Seek help if you need it, whether it’s talking to friends, family, or professionals. It’s vital to address mental struggles just as we would a physical injury. Also, always remember why you started playing. If you can keep that passion alive, it becomes easier to push through tough times.

Q: If you could give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

Bryan Moussako: I would tell myself to prioritize self-belief and not to worry about external opinions. I spent too much time trying to prove myself to others. The most important thing is to impress yourself and focus on your journey. Enjoy the process and never lose sight of the love you have for the game.

Brian Muso’s journey is an inspiring example of how perseverance, self-belief, and a strong support network can help overcome adversity. His insights serve as important reminders for young athletes everywhere about the significance of mental health, resilience, and staying true to one’s passion.