Alvarado also cites Kemba Walker, the UConn legend who made a name for himself during his college days and in the NBA, as a player who left an impact. “I remember those games like they were yesterday,” Alvarado reflects, recalling Walker’s memorable Madison Square Garden performances. “I actually went to one of those games, and now we’re cool. We’re probably going to work out in the summer, so that’s pretty dope.” In addition, Alvarado has formed a bond with Fred VanVleet, another player who he considers a mentor and “big bro.” “I love watching the Houston Rockets because Fred is there now,” he says. “That’s one of my guys.”