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The state’s top Junior College basketball scorer resides in Selma.

Wallace Community College guard Rakiem Gary is averaging a state-best 21.5 points per game. The sophomore is also among the nation’s Top 15 scorers.

“I feel great about being the state’s top scorer,” Gary said.

Gary has the ability to make shots at crucial moments.  His game-winning layup with 15 seconds left lifted the Patriots past   Chattahoochee Valley Community College 63-61 on the road Monday night in Phenix City.

The Dallas native worked his way into the Patriots’ rotation as a freshman last year. Gary displayed the skills and developed into one of the state’s top guards.

“Coach Evans taught me how to read defenses and about the pick and roll,” Gary said. “My shot has gotten better and I’ve gotten stronger and smarter.”

WCCS head coach Duane Evans noticed the growth in Gary from a freshman to a sophomore.

Gary played at Oak Cliff Faith Family Academy before signing with the Patriots.

“Rakeim did not get a lot of playing time last year,” Gary said. “But Rakeim was in the system and had some big games.”

Division I colleges have taken notice of Gary.

Idaho, Montana State and West Florida are among the colleges that have expressed interest in signing Gary to a scholarship.

Evans said Gary is a gymrat who loves basketball.

“Rakeim beats me to the gym everyday,” Evans said. “He’s the first to enter the gym and is always the last to leave the gym.”

Gary also sees himself as a gym rat.

“I’m a gym rat,” Gary said. “What makes me a great candidate for any school is my leadership and work ethic. I am a high energy person.”

Gary is looking forward to playing college basketball after his career ends at WCCS.