Former College Basketball Star Ed McCants Gives Back to the Game of Basketball

Despite having a great college basketball career and being a NCAA Tournament hero many people still are unfamiliar with former Wisconsin-Milwaukee Star Ed McCants. While at UWM McCants was named First Team All-Horizon (2x), Horizon League Player of the year, Associate Press All-American, All-Decade Team, and was the driving force behind the Cinderella story of the Panthers making it to the Sweet 16 in the 2005 NCAA Tournament.

McCants enjoyed the opportunity to play professionally in the IBL and Overseas for several years. McCants enjoyed success there as well. Since then McCants has utilized his basketball talents and knowledge in a different way rather than putting the ball in the hoop.

McCants is taking a page out of his father Brian McCants’s book and is giving back and teaching the game of basketball. Brian McCants was a very successful player in his era, and has enjoyed success coaching and training in the state of Ohio for many years.

Ed looks to have the same impact on the game in the same light as his father. Now that Ed is no longer playing he is making his impact felt in many ways.

McCants is the co-founder and Vice President of the Hidden Gems Basketball Program. McCants teams with Lucius Jones, and they provide the proper training to prepare players to reach the next level in their careers. Jones and McCants have a great resume and has helped over one hundred kids obtain college scholarships. From AAU to personal training to player development Jones, McCants, & company does it all. Hidden Gems is a unique program, because it helps with developing coaches as well as helping former college players obtain pro basketball contracts. Hidden Gems is a great program that is all about enhancing individuals to reach their basketball goals. Hidden Gems Basketball is a huge staple in Central Ohio, and it will only become bigger. Hidden Gems are looking to expand, and with their track record it is only a matter of time.

It’s great to see guys like McCants give back to the game of basketball in such a selfless manner. For those that are pursuing a career in basketball, whether coaching or playing Hidden Gems may be the recipe for your success.

Hidden Gems Showcase (You may recognize some names)