2024 Anthoney McClary talks his role and recruitment
The DeMatha Stags graduated 10 seniors from last year’s roster, which means the void left behind in the leadership and experience department will need to be filled. 2024 Anthoney ‘AJ’ McClary will be one of the two seniors on this year’s roster that will be counted on to step up into such a role while still looking to prove himself as a college prospect. Prep Hoops caught up with the 6-foot-1 combo guard after a workout last week.
“I feel more of a responsibility this year to really help the young guys, especially the freshmen,” McClary said. “We have to get these guys ready early in terms of experience so that when they get in the games, they don’t have to be nervous at all.”
“My role right now is to be a leader for the team. I need to be an engine for the team and make sure everyone is staying motivated and the energy is high. Just making sure they aren’t getting down on themselves and make sure we stay together as a team, not just a bunch of individuals.”
McClary has always been a good athlete who could lean on his burst to find ways to the rim. Over the spring and summer, he focused on improving another important area of his offensive skill set to make him more dynamic.
“I feel like my mid-range and my three-point shot has improved. Also just working on levitating off the ground more so others can’t block my shot. I still have to improve on some areas, but I feel like I’ve definitely become better since the spring.”
For McClary’s size, becoming a more dependable primary ball-handler is a focus and would allow college coaches to get a better feel for how he translates at the next level.
“I still need to work on my ball handling a bit and then just being more vocal out there with my freshmen. That’s going to be a focus of mine.”
Speaking of colleges, Army and Navy have both expressed interest in McClary this fall. Belmont Abbey experienced noticeable success in recruiting the DMV for their 2023 class and are also keeping tabs with the senior guard.
All signs point towards McClary being prepared to step up this season and be a key cog for head coach Mike Jones as DeMatha looks to battle in in the WCAC, one of the toughest conferences in the country.