Livingston’s Miller: ‘Will McDonald Is Special’

The Livingston Academy Wildcats are locked into a tough district race that sees them toiling with Upperman, York and DeKalb amongst other teams.

One reason they are still in the race: Will McDonald’s flexibility and leadership.

McDonald was the de facto second option behind Matthew Sells and spent most of the first half of the season as one of Livingston’s post players due to injuries. He adjusted, and gave them several games of double-digit scoring to help Sells shoulder the offensive load.

Now that the team is fully healthy, McDonald is getting a chance to stretch his game out.

“Will has shot the midrange shot well over his entire career,” Head Coach Jimmy Miller said. “You’re seeing him shoot the shots more, and the big part of that is the addition of Nick Choate and the minutes he’s been able to play inside.”

The three-point shot has been on display over the past couple of weeks, like when McDonald knocked down a three late in a game against Upperman. McDonald also added 13 points in a close loss to Cannon County.

McDonald’s best trait, according to Miller, isn’t his three-point; it’s his leadership.

“I don’t think it matters where he is on the floor, Will McDonald is special,” Miller said. “I think he’s the most natural leader I’ve every coached…his I.Q. is top-shelf. His ability to confidently to direct other people (comes) from all the years he’s spent doing that at quarterback. Will is a born leader.”

Not only does Miller value McDonald’s ability as a leader, it’s the key to their success in his eyes.

“He’s just a special individual,” Miller said. “When he’s doing that for our team, it makes us better. It’s the main ingredient.”