Despite being recruited for two NCAA sports, sophomore Bristan Kelley’s real dream is to sing in the best virtual band NIU has ever seen.

For now, however, Kelley is satisfied playing Division I-A basketball.

The forward took some time out and talked to the Northern Star about playing tight end for his high school football team and why he chose to pursue basketball at NIU.

Northern Star: You received looks from college football teams, as well as basketball. Which schools tried to recruit you for football?

Bristan Kelley: I got calls from Kansas State, Mizzou [Missouri], Miami of Florida and little talk with Wisconsin and Iowa.


NS: You had a good following with your football career. What made you chose basketball over football?

BK: Basketball has always been a lot of fun for me, and I thought it would be fun in college, too.


NS: Was there any other college that could change your mind and get you to choose their football program? Or would you still have chosen basketball?

BK: I am not sure. I mean, if it came down to it, and it was a big-time school like USC or something like that, I might have thought about it a little longer. But my choice might still be basketball.


NS: Do you think you made the right decision?

BK: Yeah, I am happy with where I am. I have a lot of friends up here and I really enjoy the school, so I am happy.


NS: Stepping away from sports, what is your favorite off–court activity?

BK: Every once and a while, a bunch of the guys on the team will get together and play “Rock Band.”


NS: What instrument do you play in “Rock Band?”

BK: I play the drums and I sing. But our best guitar player is Najul Ervin. I am the best vocals, but Michael Patton is a close second.


NS: Who from the team plays with you?

BK: A lot of the guys. There are two different teams, two bands. A band with me, Najul Ervin, Mike Patton and Jarvis Nichols. Some other guys come and we rotate. The other band is Ben Rand, Ryan Paradise, Egan Grafel, Shaun Logan and Zach Pancratz. We have had a few battles.


NS: Which team usually wins the battles?

BK: It goes back and forth, so there is not a declared winner yet.


NS: Who on either team gets made fun of the most? Who could use some practice on their “Rock Band” skills?

BK: I’d say Michael Patton. He’s a pretty good singer, but on the drums and guitar, he could use a little work.

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