Xavier Tillman was born on December 1, 1999 in Grand Rapids, Michigan to parents Roosevelt Tillman and Tanya Powell-May. He grew up with four siblings, which instilled in him a sense of family and community from a young age.
During his high school years, Tillman was a standout basketball player at Grand Rapids Christian High School. He was named to the Michigan class A All-State first team as a senior, showcasing his talent and dedication to the sport. He received offers from various universities, ultimately choosing to attend Michigan State University.
At Michigan State, Tillman made an immediate impact on the Spartans basketball team. Known for his defensive prowess, he was named the Big Ten Defensive Player of the Year in 2020. He also received accolades such as Big Ten Sixth Man of the Year in 2019 and a spot on the Big Ten's second team in 2020.
Tillman was selected as the 35th overall pick by the Sacramento Kings in the 2020 NBA Draft, but was later traded to the Memphis Grizzlies. This transition marked the beginning of his professional basketball career, where he hopes to continue making a name for himself in the NBA.
Off the court, Tillman remains grounded by his family and support system. His parents have been a constant source of encouragement and inspiration throughout his journey. He credits his upbringing for shaping him into the person and player he is today.
Throughout his basketball career, Tillman has been fortunate to work with influential coaches such as Tom Izzo at Michigan State. Their guidance and mentorship have played a significant role in his development as a player, both on and off the court.
Overall, Xavier Tillman's journey from a high school standout to a rising star in the NBA is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game. With a supportive family, influential mentors, and a drive to succeed, he continues to make waves in the world of basketball.