Prospect Spotlight – Marcellus Vail (2020)
Photo Courtesy of Julia Shelburne-Hitti Photography
Collins has a Junior class that got to be a part of the state tournament as Freshmen and they are anxious to get back there again. A role player on the Elite 8 team two seasons ago and a starter last season, Marcellus Vail is ready to break out as one of the 8th region’s top players in his Junior season. Vail is a big time scorer and underrated defender who told me, “I can score at all three levels and guard the best players on the floor. I shoot the ball well and can attack the rim and finish through contact.” Leading up to this season, Marcellus is working to get stronger and says he is working out 5 days a week to increase his strength and perfect his craft.
Marcellus was part of a M.A.T.T.S. Mustangs 16u team that had some success this spring and summer, “The season went very well and I received a lot exposure. I’ve heard from over 20 colleges and universities but haven’t gotten my first scholarship offer yet.” Heading into the 2018-19 regular season, Collins should be near the top in the 8th region again this year. Vail says that his AAU experience can help Collins get back to Rupp Arena, “What I can take from AAU is the experience playing against top players and realizing what it takes to be the best player on the floor every night out. That’s what I’m trying to accomplish.” Looking towards 2019, Vail said his only goal for the season is to get back to state and try to get a Championship ring this time.
Collins Coach Chris Gaither has high expectations for his Junior guard, “We are looking forward to a big year out of Marcellus. He has always showed a great ability to score the basketball. As a junior, we are expecting him to be an efficient scorer, high percentage shooter, hard nosed defender, and a leader for our team.” If Marcellus Vail can start to reach his potential, Collins could very well be a threat to win the eighth region and make a run at a state championship in March.