"The General in the Grind: Hustle, Heart, and a Future in Motion"

DeShawn McCaleb

Twitter/IG: @S6awny

5'7, 142lbs, Class of 2027

Riverside University HS, WI

AAU Team: Gxfted Elite Basketball

DeShawn is unselfish, a pass-first point guard with a relentless motor and high-IQ vision; he doesn’t just run the offense but leads it with poise and purpose. He thrives in transition, sees passing angles before they open, and makes tough, crafty plays look routine. Whether it’s diving for a loose ball, making the extra pass, or locking up on defense with active hands, DeShawn brings intensity to every possession. His ability to finish with touch through traffic, set up teammates in tight windows, and lead with composure makes him a glue guy with the mindset of a star in the making.

On JV this past season, DeShawn posted averages of 4 points, 6 assists, and 1.5 steals per game, though the numbers only tell part of the story. His biggest improvements were his shot mechanics, ball control, and leadership on and off the court. He’s focused this offseason on becoming a more consistent shooter, developing a calm, confident rhythm in high-pressure situations, and evolving into a reliable scorer when his team needs a bucket. But what separates DeShawn is his ability to impact the game even when his shot isn’t falling, through screens, cuts, rebounds, and communication, he stays locked in and lifts everyone around him.

This AAU season with Gxfted Elite, DeShawn is pushing himself to become the type of player coaches can trust in any situation, whether it’s running the offense, locking down defensively, or coming through in the clutch. He’s driven to be a leader on his varsity squad next year and dreams of earning a spot at the JUCO level and beyond. For him, basketball isn’t just a game, it’s a purpose. A lifestyle. And he's willing to grind for it every day.

Off the court, DeShawn finds joy in the little things like time with his younger brothers, music, and hitting the outdoor courts just to get better. He’s grounded, coachable, and fully committed to the process. The best piece of advice he's ever received is, “Never rush the process. Everyone’s pace is different. Missed shots happen, just keep shooting.” And that’s exactly what he plans to do.

I assess that DeShawn's vision, effort, and coachability give him tremendous value as a leader and playmaker. He doesn’t need the spotlight to shine, he creates opportunities, controls tempo, and brings effort that inspires everyone on the floor.

As his shot and confidence grow, DeShawn is poised to evolve into a complete two-way point guard with varsity impact and next-level potential. Expect him to be a difference-maker with a fearless edge and a relentless work ethic that never takes a play off. Stay tuned, as he is hungry for the next step and the season ahead.