Though Reserve Christian’s Chris Roussell didn’t play prep basketball until his junior year, he quickly established himself as a natural with the Class C champion Eagles last season. After transferring from West St. John, Roussell had to sit out a year before suiting up. He started all season on one of the state’s best teams, and finished as the Eagles’ third leading scorer.

Now the team’s only senior starter, Roussell has again made his presence known. He averages 15 points per game and possesses what RCS Coach Timmy Byrd calls “the best 3-point shooting stroke in Louisiana.” Byrd, however, saves his highest praise for Roussell’s character.

“He’s just a great kid. He’s grown into a fine leader,” Byrd says. “He’s all you can ever ask for from a student athlete.

So who better to kick off L’Observateur’s “Let’s Get to Know” feature?

What do you enjoy most about playing basketball? I enjoy playing every day with teammates who love the game as much as I do and having coaches who don’t let me settle for giving less than my best.

What do you like most about being a student-athlete? I like to show others that I can get the job done off the court, as well as on it.

Do you feel an added responsibility of being a student athlete? Yes, I do. I feel like I have to set the example that it’s not just about basketball. It’s about school first, then basketball.

What was your most memorable game? Against West St. John.

Who has been the most influential person in your school sports career? My dad.

Who is your favorite athlete? Kobe Bryant.

Favorite Team? Los Angeles Lakers

Favorite School Subject? Science

Plans after high school? To attend college and study business management.

Favorite movie/TV show/actor-actress? Coach Carter, the Fresh Prince of Bel Air and Denzel Washington.

Favorite type of music? Rap.

Favorite food? Cabbage.

Best vacation? Our AAU national trip to Florida. I had a great time playing basketball, meeting a lot of new people, and playing in front of college coaches.

Hobbies? Hunting.

Parents: Quentin and Amanda Roussell.