Darren Phillip is a power forward who plays with a tough-as-nails swagger, imposing his will to win not only on his team, but also against all those that oppose him.

He has long gone by the name “DP” (his initials), but his style of play in the Hoops in the Sun tournament led to the name “Primal Fear” as he continues to conquer the courts of Orchard Beach and Nike Pro City.

QUOTES (as told to Anthony Gilbert)

What does New York City basketball mean to you?:
First and foremost, New York City basketball is life in itself. It gets kids off the streets; it points kids in the right direction by starting on a grass-roots level. Now kids are playing basketball at 3 and 4 years old, and there is nothing better than New York City basketball! It is the Mecca of basketball. This is where everyone comes to play to earn their stripes.

It has enabled me to play 7 years overseas, and I’m looking forward to 7 more years. It has also helped a lot of other people start their own businesses, it helped me in my business, it has helped me stay out of trouble, and it has helped me with everything.

How did playing in the Hoops in the Sun Tournament earn you the name Primal Fear?:
I got that name from the Cruz brothers (tournament directors). I received that name because of my work ethic. I’m one of the few guys that work hard throughout the ball game. There are a lot of guys that are great on offense, don’t play defense. That’s what makes me different from other great ball players in the city, that’s what makes me me. I’m Primal Fear; I don’t fear anything on a basketball court. I take my hard hat and my lunch box, and I give my team what they need, night in and night out.

What are you wearing on the court this summer and what do you like about them?:
Well, the sneaker I’m wearing right now is the Zoom LeBron IV, and I love the LeBron shoe because it is so comfortable, and I really enjoy playing in it.