Hi Ashley! Thanks for sitting down with me for this week’s Hot Bench. To start off, want to cover the basics: name, class year, where you’re from, and what were you up to this summer?
I’m Ashley Anumba, class of 2025, and I am from Los Angeles, California. This summer I competed in the Olympics as a discus thrower for Nigeria.
I think your “what I did this summer” takes the record for the coolest answer ever. How was your experience at the Olympics? Any standout moments at the actual Games or in Paris in general?
It was the highlight of my life; to achieve something that you have been working on for ten years, intentionally or unintentionally, feels empowering. Having my family, friends, high school coach, and many others present to support me will always be one of my most cherished memories.
That’s so great to hear. I was for sure glued to my couch when you were competing! Was this your first time in Paris? Can you give us a rating?
This was my first time in Paris, I loved it! A solid eight out of ten.
I was following the different Olympians’ adventures throughout the summer, and you all seem like you get along super well. But there’s nothing like straight from the source, so how close are you to your fellow discus throwers?
Many of us top discus throwers are good friends! It’s basically sisters coming back together when we are at competitions. I have always enjoyed the bond we share. Despite us living all over the world and representing different countries, many of us want the best for each other.
I love that for you guys. That’s such a unique and fun sisterhood to have. What got you into discus throwing?
I tore my ACL in high school playing soccer and eventually switched to track and field.
Oof, that’s a very tough injury to experience, so glad you got to turn it into a new path for yourself. How was the transition from full-time Olympic athlete to full-time law student?
It was difficult, especially since there was no downtime between the end of the Games and the start of school. I am happy to be back though—I really enjoyed school!
Aww, I know we’re all super happy to have you back! What do you see for yourself in the future for law or for discus?
I will hang up my throwing shoes very soon. This chapter of my life has been fulfilled and I am ready to explore different sides of who I am. Who knows? I may take up a new sport.
Oo, we’ll have to come back for the inside scoop on that. Time for a little lighting round: Halloween edition!
What’s a Halloween costume you don’t want to see this year?
Nothing basic like a black cat. But who I am to judge? I have no costume for this year.
What’s your least favorite Halloween candy?
Anything that’s not chocolate.
What’s your third favorite Halloween movie?
I can’t even name the first one, sorry!
Yay or nay: On November 1, is it appropriate to start playing Christmas music?
Definitely approve, I even started watching Christmas movies weeks ago.
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Interviewed by Ashanti Jones '26