The Hillcrest Boys Basketball Program proudly honored and retired the jersey of former standout Jerel McNeal in a special ceremony during senior night. A key player on the 2005 Hillcrest State Championship team, McNeal’s legacy continues to inspire generations of athletes.
After leading Hillcrest to a state title, McNeal continued his basketball journey at Marquette University, where he became the school’s all-time leading scorer and earned Big East Defensive Player of the Year honors. His talent and dedication propelled him to the NBA, where he played for the Phoenix Suns, leaving a lasting impact on the court.
Now, McNeal has come full circle, returning to Hillcrest as a coach for the Boys Varsity team. His leadership, experience, and passion for the game serve as an invaluable asset to the program, guiding young athletes both on and off the court.
We are incredibly fortunate to have Jerel back at Hillcrest, mentoring the next generation. His journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and excellence—values we strive to instill in all of our players.
The retirement of McNeal’s jersey is a tribute to his outstanding contributions to Hillcrest Basketball and a celebration of his continued influence on the program.