Rashad McCants Ready To Make Impact

MONTVILLE, CONNECTICUT -- It was last spring when Rashad McCants, a well built and athletic 6-3, 190 pound off guard from the New Hampton School in New Hampton, N.H., made a verbal commitment to the Tar Heels of North Carolina. And since then, McCants' every move is monitored by North Carolina fans in anticipation of a brighter future for the Heels.

The future is certainly bright for both McCants and North Carolina. It has been McCants' intention to polish up his perimeter game before he steps on the floor for UNC next season. And he has been doing exactly that this season with New Hampton.

McCants scored 29 points last night in a tough loss to St. Thomas More. McCants seemed confident in taking his shot. "It's something Rashad has worked on individually the past couple of years," New Hampton head coach Jamie Arsenault said. "We try to work on him on each part of his game -- his total game. But Rashad has been working on it also when he has time to himself."

McCants knocked down three three-pointers last night. Our unofficial count had him six of 14 from the perimeter. He is still a great threat inside. Sometimes he may rely upon his jumper too much.

Down the road, it would be wise to post McCants up against an opposing team's shooting guard. Conclusion: McCants will be tough to match up with on any level. It seemed that McCants could get off a great shot anytime he wanted if he planted himself near the paint more. Rashad has springs on his feet and he can jump over people who are four or five inches taller than him.

McCants first caught the attention of the Insiders Report at the 2000 Nike Bluegrass Tournament, where he helped to lead the Charlotte Royals to the championship game of that event.

What makes McCants so tough to guard is his combination of strength and athleticism. He finishes effortlessly in transition, and uses his physical gifts to draw fouls and finish above the rim.

"He is just a great athlete," Arsenault said. "He is going to be a great college player. North Carolina is going to be excited about having him."