Hometown Heroes: Bradley Dean and Mac McClung Make Waves in the Basketball World
Professional basketball player Bradley Dean, a Gate City High School graduate, is set to kick off his career with the Newcastle Knights in England's National Basketball League. Dean, known for his impressive scoring record at Gate City and his collegiate stints at UVa-Wise and Miami University of Ohio, will bring his skills to the court for Newcastle as they gear up for the upcoming season in September. With an impressive career at UVa-Wise, where he earned the title of the 2023 South Atlantic Conference player of the year, Dean is poised to make a mark in the professional basketball scene.
Meanwhile, Gate City is celebrating the achievements of another hometown hero, Mac McClung, with the unveiling of a permanent sign and mural in his honor. McClung, a standout athlete and 2018 graduate of Gate City High School, made a name for himself leading the Blue Devils to the 2018 VHSL Class 2 state title. His collegiate career at Georgetown and Texas Tech, along with his success as a three-time NBA slam dunk champion, has solidified his status as a basketball star. McClung has also made appearances in NBA regular-season games with several teams, including the Chicago Bulls, Los Angeles Lakers, Philadelphia 76ers, and Orlando Magic. His legacy lives on at Gate City, where his jersey hangs retired and his name graces the gym floor as a testament to his accomplishments.
In conclusion, the basketball community is abuzz with excitement as Bradley Dean embarks on his professional journey with the Newcastle Knights in England, while Gate City pays tribute to the legendary Mac McClung with permanent markers celebrating his remarkable career. These two hometown heroes have left an indelible mark on the basketball world, and their achievements continue to inspire fans and aspiring athletes alike.