Then-Hartford assistant coach John Gallagher enticed Michael Turner to make the 3,000-mile trek from Novato, Calif., to West Hartford, Conn. 

Looking back more than 15 years later Turner describes his time at Hartford as one of the most eye-opening experiences that allowed him to create some of the best memories and relationships of his life.

After a standout career at Marin Catholic High, Turner spent a season at West Valley College in Saratoga, Calif., before making the cross-country journey to join the Hawks. In three seasons, the 6-foot-4 swingman saw his scoring average rise from 5.7 points per game to 8.9 as a junior and 11.2 in the 2008-09 season.

Quick to become a "fan favorite" among Hartford's faithful followers, Turner's career was highlighted by several "firsts" for Hartford. He became the first player in program history to lead the team in both rebounds and assists in the same season, and was the first Hawk to be named to the America East All-Defensive Team. Most importantly, Turner helped lay the foundation for Hartford men's basketball, leading the program to its first-ever trip to the America East Championship Game, in 2008.

"Michael Turner was one of the first players that we recruited when I came to Hartford," said Gallagher. "He has always exemplified what a team player should be - selfless, energetic and tough. Michael was one of the best defensive players to come through our program. He understood what needed to be done."

There's no doubt that Turner left his mark at Hartford. To this day, his name is peppered throughout the Hawks' record book, as he ranks among the program's all-time leaders in steals, three-point field goal percentage, rebounds and minutes.

His journey didn't end in West Hartford, though. After graduating, Turner embarked on a professional career in Germany, where he enjoyed a two-year career with the Nordlingen Giants.

After living out his childhood dream of playing professional basketball, Turner landed in New Orleans for a few years before reuniting with high school coach Rick Winter on the West Coast. For the past 10 years, he has worked under Winter at North Bay Basketball Academy, where he is currently the Associate Director and Director of Player Development.

Jeff Dooley, the voice of the Hartford Hawks, had a chance to catch up with the former men's basketball standout. To hear more about Turner's journey, and his time as a Hartford Hawk, check out the interview below.