Only three percent of all high school basketball players make the leap to college basketball. From there, the odds of reaching the professional level are even slimmer. The chances of success are practically nonexistent—yet at 5 feet 10 inches, straight out of Memphis, Tennessee, Texas Southern University senior guard Kavion McClain has defied the odds.
Using his past, his environment, and his relentless determination, McClain pushes forward.
“Memphis has impacted me alot, it’s where I got my grit from. Growing up in Memphis I have seen alot, so that made me realize that there is something better—much more out there.” McClain said.
McClain’s path to leadership on TSU’s basketball team hasn’t been easy, but he didn’t walk it alone. His journey wouldn’t have been complete without the mentorship of his coach, Johnny Jones.
“I knew as soon as I came on a visit to TSU. After I talked to Coach Jones and he told me the plan he had for me to become a pro, I knew this was the best option for me,” McClain said.
The key to McClain’s rise as a leader on the court has been the unwavering trust he and Coach Jones have developed in each other.
“I feel like I’ve had such a jump in production because of the trust and confidence Coach Jones has in me. I showed him that I was able to do alot with the basketball and that I have the skill and toughness to be a pro! McClain said.
Kavion McClain makes waves at TSU basketball
As the 2024-2025 season progresses, McClain’s ultimate goal is to lead his team to greatness. He wants this season to be remembered as one of dominance, a team that rose to the highest level and earned its place in history.
“I want us to be remembered as champions and I want us to get a couple NCAA tournament wins,” McClain said.
Looking to his own legacy, McClain has big ambitions for how he wants to be remembered.
“I want people to remember me as a great person both on and off the floor. I want to them to remember me as one of the best players to ever play at TSU. I want them to remember me as a champion and the SWAC Player of the Year,” McClain said.
As TSU’s fierce basketball team nears the halfway point of the 2024-2025 season, they are setting their sights on improving their position in the SWAC, with a strong finish and a SWAC championship win for the ages.
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