By Leo Corman ‘15

Senior shooting guard Xavier (zah-vee-ay) McCants started playing basketball when he was 8 years old, following in the footsteps of his older siblings. Now entering his third season on the varsity squad and returning as the team’s leading scorer from last season, McCants will look to establish himself as the number one player on his team and one of the county’s best.

McCants plays basketball for the competition. “What I find enjoyable about basketball is the competitiveness and the adrenaline rush I get while I play. Naturally I’m very competitive and I love to win,” said McCants. “The most challenging thing about basketball is trying to stay consistent … with scoring, defense and taking care of the ball.”

McCants recognizes the positive influence his coaches have had on his development. He credits his Amateur Athletic Union (AAU) coach, Kevin Harris, for pushing him to achieve his full potential and “never sugar-coating anything.” McCants also appreciates the guidance he has received from varsity Coach Tim Gilchrist and former NBA guard and assistant Coach Walt Williams, who have both helped to “teach [him] what’s going to be needed … at the next level.” McCants is currently being recruited by several colleges.

McCants has a very aggressive playing style, especially in his ability to attack the basket and score through contact. His speed and ball-handling allow him to beat defenders up the floor, and his athleticism and body control help him absorb contact and finish at the rim. While McCants relies mainly on getting to the basket, his improved outside jump shot will likely be an offensive threat that defenses will have to respect this season.

McCants expects to be one of the leading scorers in the county this season and possibly earn first team All-Met honors. Coach Gilchrist has high leadership expectations for McCants as well. “We want Xav to grow as the season goes on, and we want him and fellow seniors to guide this team through the playoffs to Comcast,” said Gilchrist. “I expect hard work in practice everyday, and expect Xav to not allow any of his teammates to slack at any moment on or off the court. We expect the highest level of quality of work. Anything less is not the Sherwood Warrior way.”

According to Gilchrist, McCants’ success stems from more than just natural talent. “He is a tireless worker in the gym, the classroom and the weight room,” said Gilchrist. “Xav is very coachable and listens attentively; he executes the team’s game plan and also has the support of his teammates. He is a special player, but is very humble and wants to see his teammates do just as well as he is hoping to do this winter.”

Gilchrist added that he hopes to have a balanced offense with strong ball movement, making it difficult for opposing coaches to double-team McCants or deny him the ball. The Warriors open the season today against rival Magruder.