From St. John’s to the World: The Journey of Brian Roberts, Toledo’s Basketball Luminary

Brian Roberts, a basketball standout hailing from Toledo, Ohio, emerged as a determined force in the game of basketball, leaving an enduring impact on both the local and international stages. Graduating from St. John’s High School in 2004, Roberts showcased his prowess with three-time Associated Press All-Ohio selections and pivotal contributions that guided St. John’s to the state championship game.

His journey continued at the University of Dayton from 2004 to 2008, where Roberts’s four-year college basketball career unfolded with remarkable achievements. Averaging 15.7 points, 3.0 rebounds, and 2.8 assists per game, he garnered numerous accolades, including Atlantic 10 All-Rookie team honors, All-Atlantic 10 second team honors (twice), and All-Atlantic 10 first team honors. Notably, Roberts was recognized for his academic excellence with Atlantic 10 All-Academic team honors and NABC Division I All-District 10 first team honors.

Despite facing the setback of not being drafted in the 2008 NBA draft, Roberts showcased resilience by joining the Orlando Magic’s and Los Angeles Lakers’ summer league squads. His journey then led him to Altshuler Saham Galil Gilboa in Israel for the 2008–09 season, marking the beginning of his international endeavors.

In 2012, Roberts caught the attention of the NBA once again, joining the New Orleans Hornets’ summer league squad. This opportunity led to a multi-year NBA deal with the Hornets, and on March 25, 2013, he delivered a standout performance with a career-high 18 assists, aiding the team in snapping the Denver Nuggets’ 15-game winning streak. The following April, the Hornets transformed into the Pelicans, and Roberts continued to shine, finishing the 2013–14 NBA season with the highest free throw percentage.

Roberts’s NBA journey included trades to the Miami Heat and later to the Portland Trail Blazers in 2016. His debut with the Trail Blazers, contributing seven points in a victory over the Golden State Warriors, added another chapter to his impactful career.

In 2018, Roberts embraced a new challenge, signing a one-year deal with the Spanish club Unicaja. His final playing year was in 2019, concluding a remarkable career characterized by determination, resilience, and a consistent pursuit of excellence on the basketball court. Brian Roberts remains a Toledo basketball legend, leaving an inspiring legacy for aspiring players in the game.