I’ve known Hornets legend Mugsy Bogues son Ty since I was 6 years old. We met at a Hornets Hoops camp just as I was really starting to fall in love with the game. I would say that my parents, the Charlotte Hornets, and Ty Bogues are three of the top reasons I got involved with, and will always be involved in, basketball. Today I had the opportunity to quickly interview Ty, after he hosted a Holiday Hornets Hoops Camp at the Carole Hoefener Center, to talk a little more personally about his life and growing up the son of a true basketball legend.

Me: You were born during Mugsy’s prime time as a player with the Charlotte Hornets, but then he went on to Golden State and Toronto. Did you move with him and how was that?

Ty: A lot of people don’t know this but my mom and dad were actually divorced back then (they since re-married and are still happily married to this day). During those years I was living with my mom in New York and I would go out to Golden State every other week. California and Toronto were easily the best time growing up.

Me: Were you into basketball growing up?

Ty: For sure. I was a hooper all the way through high school. I made varsity in 9th grade but my grades messed me up. I wasn’t serious about education and that is why I work with youth right now. I have the opportunity to help give kids the understanding that education is the most important part, it comes first and basketball will follow.

Me: Did you feel pressure on the court being the son of an NBA player?

Ty: I wouldn’t say pressure. I was definitely aware that there were some expectations because Mugsy’s Mugsy, but I wouldn’t say there was any pressure. 

Me: I remember when I met you at that first Hornets Hoops camp when I was younger. When did you start working for the Hornets?

Ty: I started with the Hornets that last year they were the Bobcats. At that time I was just interning and working for no money. Then Chad Hunt came and the Hornets youth program was moved inside the organization. They needed help so they hired me as an independent contractor. I worked contract for about 2 1/2 – 3 years working part-time, then transitioned into full time and am now the manager of Hornets Hoops. It’s been 7 years and it’s been a nice little journey.

Me: What do you think about the Hornets right now as a team?

Ty: I’m very happy and very excited about the path we’re on. We have a lot of good young guys, we’ve got a good front office, and I think in the coming years we’re going to make some real noise in the playoffs. We definitely got to lock Miles in, lock PJ in, and of course, keep Melo happy. I think we have a nice young team on the rise.

I completely agree. This young Hornets squad is a lot of fun to watch and I cannot wait to see what the future holds.