TAMPA — Tampa Bay Buccaneers rookie Ted Hurst III is embracing life in Florida, calling the heat both the best and worst part of his new home as he settles into his first NFL training camp.
“It’s also the worst thing right now, but it’s also the best thing. It’s the heat. I can’t do the cold. The cold hurts more, so I’d rather be in the heat,” Hurst III said in a team Q&A session.
Hurst III, who grew up idolizing Michael Vick on the football field and Kevin Durant on the basketball court, described himself as a lifelong hooper who still wears KD shoes regularly. “My mom made sure I had a good bit of those. I’m a hooper too now. I’m still a hooper,” he said. Asked whether he would cry when LeBron James retires, Hurst III was blunt: “No, I won’t cry. When Kevin Durant does though, I might shed a tear.”
The rookie’s personality came through in rapid-fire answers covering everything from food to film. His favorite movie is “Friday After Next,” his favorite TV show is “Martin,” and his favorite music artist is “NBA YoungBoy. All day.” On condiments, Hurst III drew a hard line: “I’m not a fan of ketchup or mustard. Ketchup or mustard is disgusting. No mayo, no relish. I am pretty plain. Not a fan of the condiments.”
Hurst III said his best travel memory was a combined vacation and AAU basketball trip to Las Vegas. “I think it was one of those Vegas trips. I’ve been to Vegas a few times. I’ve got to see a good bit of good people play basketball,” he said. His biggest pet peeve? “Smacking, when you eat food. There’s no need to smack when you’re chewing. That’s just annoying.”
The Buccaneers continue training camp at their Tampa Bay facility as the team prepares for the upcoming preseason schedule.