Toro men’s alum talks historic season, preparation for Portugal’s Proliga.
By Jonte Williams, Staff Reporter
When I spoke with Adam Afifi on the phone earlier this month, he was preparing to leave Los Angeles in less than 24 hours. After helping the Toro men’s basketball team make a historic run to the NCAA Div. II national championship last season, Afifi is now headed overseas in pursuit of bigger and better things.
The 6-foot-9 forward from San Jose played a pivotal role in the Toros’ 2024–25 season, which put the program in the national spotlight. He started 31 of 34 games and averaged 13.6 points and 7.1 rebounds in just under 26 minutes per game.
Afifi had always wanted to play pro ball, and now he’ll have his chance as part of AD Galomar in Portugal’s Proliga.
While he packed his bags for the 11-hour flight out of LAX, I caught up with Afifi to talk about his experience playing Toros basketball and how he plans to step up his game before stepping onto the court in Caniço, Madeira.
(Editor’s note: This interview has been edited for length and clarity.)
Tell me about your last season at CSUDH. What was it like to end your time here playing in a national championship game?
Afifi: It was a surreal experience. We had definite goals going into the year…we aimed to win the conference and the West Region, eventually reaching the national championship. Just being there was a blessing and we definitely got lucky along the way. It’s a testament to how close we were as a team. You don’t progress that far without real connections—we truly functioned as a family, sticking together just like we have in the past.
How has your experience playing here in LA and at CSUDH shaped you as both a player and a person?
Afifi: I’ve had the privilege of learning from excellent coaches, including [head coach] Steve Becker and [assistant coach] John Peterson at Dominguez Hills. They’ve instilled great values in me. My parents also taught me the importance of hard work and never taking anything for granted. I carry those lessons with me as I step into this next phase of my career. I want to represent my Egyptian heritage and my people as I move forward.
Have you been to Portugal?
Afifi: No, I haven’t been to Portugal. I’ve traveled to Europe a few times while living in Egypt for international tournaments. My team is actually located on an island off the coast, so it’s not on the mainland.
How do you plan to immerse yourself in the culture while you’re there?
Afifi: I want to engage with locals, learn the language, and participate in community activities. Exploring the local food and customs will also be important to me. Immersing myself in the culture will not only enrich my experience, but also help me adjust more smoothly to living abroad and playing basketball in that environment.
How are you preparing mentally and physically for the transition to international basketball?
Afifi: Mentally, I’ve been watching a lot of film on overseas basketball, as the style tends to be a slower pace with a different tempo. I’m trying to prepare for the physicality out there, as it’s said to be more intense. Physically, I spend as much time as possible in the gym and weight room to maintain my fitness and condition.
Are you playing the same position or switching positions?
Afifi: I’ll be playing the power forward and center position.
Do you feel the overseas style of play will fit your game?
Afifi: Absolutely. I’ve always been regarded as a stretch four, which is a skill set they value overseas. They emphasize skill and basketball IQ over sheer athleticism, and that’s where I excel. Coaches often run plays that require good reads, so I think my combination of skills in passing, shooting, and decision-making will help me succeed.
What challenges do you expect to face adjusting to a new country and league?
Afifi: The most significant challenge might be jet lag and getting used to the time difference, initially. Also, adapting to a new coaching style and the increased physicality of the game. As an import player, there’s a greater expectation for you to perform, and that adds pressure since they’ll be looking at you to contribute significantly.
What aspects of your game do you feel need improvement as you make this transition?
Afifi: I need to continue working on my physical strength, especially since the game is said to be more rugged over there. I also want to focus on my decision-making under pressure and being quick with my reads in a different style of basketball. Adapting to a new system will also require me to be more versatile—so refining my skills will be crucial.
Are there specific skills you’ve been sharpening leading up to your move?
Afifi: I’ve been particularly focusing on my shooting—especially from long range. I’ve also been working on my post moves and defensive positioning to handle the more physical style of play. Staying agile while also getting stronger is my key focus right now.
What do you think will be the most rewarding aspect of playing overseas?
Afifi: The cultural experience will be the most rewarding. Living in a different country, experiencing different traditions, and meeting new people will enrich my life in ways that extend beyond basketball. Plus, the chance to play at a high level and showcase my skills on an international stage is something I’m really looking forward to.