Lindell Wigginton is used to making headlines. Not only is he the first Canadian to ever play for Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, VA), but he is now a national champion. After Oak Hill’s stunning, buzzer-beating win in the Dick’s Sporting Goods National Championship Game, Wigginton has been able to solidify his standing as one of high school basketball’s best. “Without a doubt, we’re the best backcourt in the country.” proclaimed Wigginton’s teammate and fellow top recruit, Matt Coleman.

Emerging from Nova Scotia, Canada, Wigginton grew up in the town of Halifax, and by the age of five, he already had a basketball in his hand. However, in 2014 Wigginton realized it was time for a change. “When I played in the Nike Globe Games, a year or two ago, Steve Smith saw me play and he invited me to play at Oak Hill,” the 6’2”, 180lb point guard said. “Being the first player from Canada is a blessing. Not many people get out where I come from, so it’s just a blessing.”

There is no denying that growing up in Halifax was a challenge for Wigginton, as he says, “Where I’m from, you can get into a lot of bad things. Many people don’t see Canada as a bad place, but where I’m from, it’s really like that. I don’t think people know how hard it is to come from where I’ve come from.”

Growing up in Halifax hasn’t been the only challenge that Wigginton has had to face. Five years ago, Wigginton’s older brother, Tyson James Bundy, died in a car accident. Wigginton says that his family, including Bundy, are huge influences for him as he tries to further his basketball career. “My family and my brother that passed away -- that’s what motivates me.” he said

As one of the best basketball players in the Class of 2017, Wigginton faces a lot of pressure to make his family proud. Nevertheless, he doesn’t let it get to his head: “I don’t really believe in all the pressure and stuff. I just go out and play my game every night. I do what I can do.”

Now, as he nears his senior season, many top schools have an eye on him, including Louisville, Oregon, and Florida State. Wigginton says that he would like to commit during his Senior year. Playing at Oak Hill, Wigginton is surrounded by many other highly recruited players, such as the #1 ranked player in the Class of 2016, Harry Giles. At such a well-distinguished school like Oak Hill, not only does he have acclaim from colleges, but he also is able to compete at a very high level with incredible facilities. “You get a lot of recognition, you’re playing against the best competition on a daily basis, and you’re playing for a great coach in Coach Smith. You’re isolated, so you work out a lot. I get in the gym every day.” the 18-year-old said.

With a national championship under his belt and an incredible work ethic, Lindell Wigginton has proved to be a supreme power in the Class of 2017. As his senior year nears, it is clear that he has his future planned out, saying, “I want to go to the NCAA, have a great career there, and then go to the next level, the NBA. I want to make my family proud.”