Grant Ledford of Grace Christian commits to Chattanooga

Player development can come in many forms in the context of a basketball player.

Grant Ledford’s improvement was evident by the bounce in his step.

Last summer, before his junior season at Grace Christian Academy, Ledford’s jump shot or move to the bucket didn’t need work.

It was the 6-foot-5 swingman’s challenge to make over his body.

“Physicality is a big part of the transition from high school to college,” Rams coach Brandon Clifford said. “Last summer, I challenged Grant to work on his body. When you tell him to work on something, he does it – no questions.”

That development played an integral role in Ledford leading Grace to a Division II-A state title and then making a commitment to play at Chattanooga starting in 2019-20.

Making tangible progress

Clifford used the word “bouncy” to describe the way Ledford carried himself on the court, even during the late-season grind when the legs are aching and the body hurts.

“I just felt lighter on my feet,” Ledford said. “I stayed fresh through the whole season. I guess I had a bounce in my step.”

It didn’t happen by accident. Through constant weightlifting and a regimented diet, Ledford said he sculpted 215 pounds into a chiseled 205. 

His bench press went from 150 to 205, and an enhanced vertical jump turned dunks that barely happened during the summer into the windmill variety toward the end of the season.

“Everything seemed to get better naturally,” Ledford said. “The game just started to happen easier. I think I became more explosive.”

Clifford agreed.

“No doubt, the game came easier for Grant,” Clifford said. “Right now, he looks like a Division I (college) player. He could go to college this year and physically handle the transition.”

Numbers offer proof

Along with that new body came some impressive numbers.

Ledford averaged 19.1 points, 8.0 rebounds and 2.5 assists for Grace while earning district MVP honors. He hit six of eight free throws in the final 1:18 to ice a 46-44 state championship victory over Webb School. It was the fifth time Grace played Webb last season.

“All I was thinking was put (the free throws) in and get the ring,” Ledford said. “I knew what was expected of me. I just wanted to end it.”

Ledford averaged 15.7 points and 7.5 rebounds in the semifinal and final games and was selected as the Most Outstanding Player.

“Being MVP was a blessing, but winning the state championship was something I’ve always dreamed about,” Ledford said. “That was special to me.”

A good college fit

Ledford’s new and improved body and his 3.6 GPA should make the adjustment to college a smooth one. He chose Chattanooga over the U.S. Military Academy.

“I’ve been on campus four times,” said Ledford, who would have gone to Farragut had he attended a public school. “They’ve believed in me from the beginning.”

Clifford said Chattanooga should be a good fit for Ledford.

“Chattanooga was in on Grant early,” Clifford said. “They did things the right way in terms of the relationship they developed. ... He’s one of those 'tweener’ guards who are so valuable in the college game. He can be a (big guard or small forward) and can even defend a (power forward) if he had to. He needs to get ready to go up against faster, bigger guys.

“But, that’s just all part of his development.”

Al Lesar is a freelance contributor.