STONY BROOK, N.Y. -- Stony Brook women's basketball alumna Gerda Gatling made her presence felt on the court during her four years on the Island by tallying 322 points, 398 rebounds, 106 steals and 89 assists over her 112 games for the Seawolves.

After graduating with a BS in Business Management and Economics, Gatling had a three-year stint in economics before a three-year stint as a referee trainee with the NBA, also becoming the first woman to referee in rapper Ice Cube's Big 3 League that features stars such as Jason Richardson, Mario Chalmers, Jason Williams, Greg Oden, and Nick Young. Today, the Seawolf is a Software Engineer & still NCAA Division I/NBA G League Basketball official. 

Why did you choose Stony Brook?
I chose Stony Brook for the academic rigor, close proximity to NYC, and the opportunity to build a program. 

What does Stony Brook mean to you?
I owe a lot of who I am to Stony Brook if I'm being honest. For starters, Stony Brook gave me the opportunity to get a top tier education for free. The network I built while on campus was invaluable and I stay in contact with many of my peers til this day. I can't forget my teammates, we built so many memories together and we continue to support each other. Lastly, my involvement in the Stony Brook Black and Latino Alumni Network has allowed me to build authentic relationships while also opening professional doors. 

How was being a student-athlete at SBU made an impact on you personally and professionally?
I use a lot of the lessons I learned on the court while interviewing for roles in corporate America. Being a student-athlete at the Division I level teaches you so much about discipline, accountability, and teamwork. You can take those experiences with you wherever you go. 

If you could give advice to a current Stony Brook player, what would it be?
There are two pieces of advice I would give current players. First, never underestimate how many transferable skills you have built from playing basketball. Teamwork, grit, problem solving and many more are going to set you apart from many others as you navigate life after college. Second, create relationships with students outside of your team and more importantly outside of athletics, your network is your net worth! 

Between your former teammates and coaches, who has had the most impact on your life? 
Both had an impact on my life, I can't pick one over the other. Former coaches taught me how to overcome adversity, while my teammates taught me no matter where we end up we always have each other. 

What is your favorite memory of Stony Brook?
Senior night, getting to celebrate and get the win with the same class I came in with! 

What was your biggest takeaway from Stony Brook University?
My biggest takeaway from Stony Brook was the exposure to the diverse community.

What is a message you would send to Seawolves Nation?
Once a Seawolf, always a Seawolf! 

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