From Logan-Rogersville to We Are United to Missouri State University… Kanon Gipson is keeping the local hoop scene strong.
Yanders Law alumni, Kanon Gipson, is living out his childhood dream of becoming a Missouri State Bear. We have had the privilege of watching and aiding Kanon along his journey. Through Yanders Law, Logan-Rogersville, and We Are United, Kanon has transformed from a kid with a good-looking outside stroke to a leader, facilitator, and Division I collegiate talent.
“I’ve always wanted to be a Bear,” Gipson says. “So many kids around here want to do that - to play for the hometown team.” Staying local has always been ideal for Kanon, but he was close to choosing a different path.
“I was close to committing to another school,” says Gipson, who played for Rob Yanders’ We Are United prep last season. “Really (Missouri State) just fell in my lap at the right time. It was too big, too good to pass up.”
When asked about his biggest takeaways from his time with We Are United, Kanon could not help but gush a bit about his Coach, Rob Yanders.
“Where do I start with that guy,” Gipson says. “I used to think that I knew what hard work was. He showed me what hard work was and drilled it into me. With We Are United, things were really focused on teamwork and leadership. So I would say leadership and work ethic are the biggest pieces I’m taking away from Rob and The Basketball Movement.”
Currently, Kanon says he is working on his strength ahead of his first NCAA season. “We are practicing, and I’m going up against these guys and getting stronger,” Gipson says. “We are learning roles, and since we have some older players, I am able to pick their brains as well.”
Gipson, who would like to coach someday, aims to be the hardest working player on the court and one of the loudest. He knows he has his work cut out for him to be a leader as a freshman. But, he says that he is ready.
With so many players moving around through the transfer portal, Gipson has a chance to shine for a MSU squad that will need to find its identity in a hurry. He is thrilled to be a part of the Missouri State family.
“It is what I’ve dreamed of,” Gipson says. “I’m excited for my parents. (Staying local) also means that Rob and guys like Coach Craig that have helped me get to watch me. Younger kids from the area can as well and see what they can do.”
We wish Kanon luck as he continues his journey in basketball, but as he knows, skill trumps luck more often than not. He will undoubtedly keep grinding and make our area proud!