Northwestern State Demons guard/forward Gary Roberson enjoys playing basketball in front of his family and friends every home game.

Roberson is the son of Gary and Mellissa Roberson and has three other siblings Tony Payton, Justin Roberson and Gerald Roberson.

The senior guard/forward played two years at Jacksonville Junior College in Florida before coming back to Natchitoches to play for coach Mike McConathy.

“I chose NSU because I wanted to be close to home and play in front of my family and friends. NSU was my first choice and the same style coach McConathy runs was the style I played in high school and that made my decision a lot easier.”

Roberson started all 32 games last season, but this season he is a huge part of the high scoring Demons offense.

Roberson is averaging 5 points in 18 minutes off the bench and shooting 48 percent from the field goal.

“I love coming off the bench. As a player you want to see what is going on before you get in the game. I see what’s going on before I get a chance to get in the game and it makes the game a lot easier to adjust to when I get on the court.”

Roberson is a humble young man who loves to play basketball.

He’s had a lot of experience and knows what to do to prepare himself mentally and physically.

Before every game he takes a shower and listens to Alicia Keys.

Roberson learned the game of basketball from his dad and did not start playing until he was 11.

“I was not big on sports at a young age. I loved to read then, and I still do today.”

Roberson played one year of football in high school, but realized his passion was for basketball.

“They tried to get me to come back out there, but I did not enjoy football as much as I love the game of basketball.”

Roberson dreams do not end with college basketball he plans to graduate with a general studies degree and will try to play pro or semi-pro basketball.

“I would like to play pro or semi-pro if I get the opportunity, but I understand that I need a back up plan to start my future. I am glad I will have my degree to fall back on.”

Roberson believes that having a degree will help him start his future.

He plans to coach high school basketball and teach physical education.

“I would love to teach the game of basketball to kids in the community.”

Roberson is a big fan of the NBA his favorite team is the San Antonio Spurs.

He predicts the Spurs will finish in the top five in the western conference and that they will win the NBA championship.