Sophomore guard Gerardo Santiago brings championship experience, scoring ability, and an international perspective to the Fayetteville State men's basketball program. A native of Juana Díaz, Puerto Rico, the 5-foot-11, 165-pound guard has quickly established himself as a valuable member of the Broncos. Santiago is pursuing a degree in Sports Management and is expected to graduate in 2028.
Before arriving at Fayetteville State, Santiago attended Palos Verdes High School, where he averaged 15 points per game and helped lead his team to consecutive CIF playoff appearances. His consistent production and competitive spirit prepared him for the next level, where he continued to develop his game as a collegiate student-athlete.
One of the highlights of Santiago's young collegiate career came in 2026 when he helped Fayetteville State capture the CIAA Championship. The experience of winning a conference title further fueled his passion for the game and reinforced his commitment to helping the Broncos compete for championships.
Santiago credits NBA superstar LeBron James as his biggest athletic influence. He admires James' longevity, leadership, and commitment to excellence both on and off the court. Those qualities have inspired Santiago as he works toward achieving his own goals in basketball.
Away from the court, Santiago enjoys playing video games and spending time with friends. Looking ahead, he hopes to continue his basketball career professionally and eventually transition into coaching, allowing him to stay connected to the sport while mentoring future generations of athletes.
Santiago chose Fayetteville State because of its strong Sports Management program and the opportunity to be part of a successful basketball program. What makes Fayetteville State special to him is the opportunity the university provided to compete at the collegiate level and proudly represent the Broncos. As he continues his journey, Santiago looks forward to contributing to the team's success while making the most of his experience as a student-athlete.
Career Goals
Play basketball professionally and become a coach.
Why Fayetteville State?
"I chose FSU because of their Sports Management program and their basketball program."
What Makes FSU Special?
"It makes it special because they gave me the opportunity to play for them and represent them."
