Recruiting Report: Xavier Trent (2016)
John Marshall lost three key seniors from last year’s team that lost in the Conference 26 semifinals to eventual state champs George Wythe. While they returned their two most productive starters in senior point guard Jeremy Sheppard and junior post…
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Continue ReadingJohn Marshall lost three key seniors from last year’s team that lost in the Conference 26 semifinals to eventual state champs George Wythe. While they returned their two most productive starters in senior point guard Jeremy Sheppard and junior post Greg Jones, it was still a question who would step up to be another leader on the team. That question was answered with senior wing Xavier Trent.
“Xavier was an important player last year that started a few games, but he was more of a hustle and defense guy for us last season,” Assistant Coach Michael Blackwell said.
This year, Trent has emerged into not just a leader, but a key offensive cog that helps relieve pressure off of the dynamic duo that have become so well known in the Richmond basketball scene. Trent has been especially good in big games, including a 22 point outing in a win over Deep Run a few weeks ago, and 17 points in a close loss to Conference 27 Champs Norcom on Saturday.
Xavier Trent is a knock down shooter with good size and athleticism too.“My role has grown a lot,” Trent said. “I’m just feeding off of Greg [Jones] and Jeremy’s [Sheppard] intensity, they are two players that you really want on your team. We’re developing a bigger bond so we can bring it together as a team.”
Trent has thrived as a catch and shoot assassin. He’s been consistent knocking down the outside shot, and at 6’3″ he’s not a liability defensively as he has long arms and can move his feet well. His ability to knock it down makes it easier for Sheppard to get in the lane, and give Jones and junior Isaiah Anderson a kick out option when double teamed in the post. But Trent thinks he’s more of an all around weapon than some see.
“I can drive well and rebound the ball, as well as shoot it,” Xavier said. “We’re just working hard, no days off we’ll be back in the gym tomorrow.”
Trent has had a great season so far, but he still flies under the radar with college coaches because he’s such a late bloomer. Despite having good size and athleticism, along with a scholarship level skill set, Trent says he’s only heard from NAIA Bluefield College out of West Virginia.
As one of the best unknown seniors in the Richmond area, it would be a steal for whatever colleges take the time to come see Trent.