By Jeff Devine, Editor-in-Chief, Dale County Chronicle.
Dale County High School standout Jayden McGhee is making his mark on local basketball history. McGhee recently achieved some notable honors, including reaching a major career milestone by scoring his 1,000th point. McGhee was also named to Stallworth’s All-Tournament Team after a superb performance in the tournament in Brantley. And McGhee is just getting started.
McGhee has already achieved great honors and remains humble, attributing his achievements to years of hard work, growth, and the support of those around him.
McGhee, who plays point guard for the Warriors and is often among the top scorers of each game, said he knew he was closing in on the 1,000-point mark during the game, but he was not exactly sure when he reached it. After scoring a few baskets, confirmation came from his coach following the game. Despite the significance of the moment, McGhee stayed focused on the bigger picture.
“I didn’t overreact because we still had a game to try and win,” McGhee said. “I felt happy, but I didn’t go out and celebrate.”
McGhee admitted he does not remember the specific basket that pushed him past the milestone. Instead, what stood out most was the support he received afterward, as teammates and others congratulated him on the accomplishment.
McGhee was quick to credit his teammates for helping him reach the milestone, emphasizing that the achievement was not an individual effort.
“I wouldn’t have been able to reach this without the help of my teammates,” he said. “When I had off games, they still trusted me to go out and score. I can’t say some teammates helped more than others because everyone helped equally, some on the court and others on the bench who kept our energy high during tough moments.”
Reflecting on his development, McGhee said his game has evolved significantly since his freshman year. He credits consistent practice, especially working on shots he takes in games, for helping him become more comfortable and confident as both a scorer and playmaker. His junior year, he said, was when everything began to come together.
McGhee also emphasized the importance of mental preparation and proper rest, noting that much of the work that leads to success often goes unseen and can take a toll if not balanced correctly.
One of the biggest influences on his journey has been his coach, James Edmonds. McGhee credits Edmonds as a major influence on both his athletic and personal development.
“My coach has played a huge role in my development as a player and a person,” McGhee said. “I owe a lot of what I accomplished to him for giving me a chance and letting me play after the countless mistakes I’ve made.”
McGhee said he draws inspiration from NBA player LaMelo Ball because of the way he plays the game, but noted that the person who inspired him to play basketball in the first place was his father, who played in high school.
“He’s the one who made me want to play basketball,” McGhee said.
Looking ahead, McGhee’s goals include advancing deep into postseason play, with hopes of making it past the Sweet 16 and reaching the Super 12. He also noted that he plays golf in addition to basketball.
After high school, McGhee hopes to continue his basketball career at the collegiate level.
For younger players hoping to follow a similar path, McGhee offered straightforward advice: “If you want to have the same success,” he said, “just put in the work and the hours to be the best you can possibly be.”
Jayden McGhee (forward-facing), who currently plays for Dale County High School, recently scored his 1,000th career point and achieved other honors, making his mark on local high school basketball history.
