SARNIA – From the Jags to the Lions.
Wing Billy Van Boxtel has officially committed to Head Coach James Grant and the Lambton Men’s Basketball Program for the 2025-26 season, and beyond.
Van Boxtel is the fourth member of the 2025 recruiting class for Coach Grant and company. Come September, Van Boxtel will join the likes of Blake Redfern (Mitchell, Ont.), Liam Tosh (Brantford, Ont.), and Traivon Hayes (Brantford, Ont.) as a newcomer in a Lambton uniform.
“We knew as soon as Billy attended his workout here at the college that he was the type of player that we needed at LC,” said Grant. “He is a good-sized wing who can hit shots, and that is exactly what we are looking to add.”
“On top of that, he’s a character individual who will help build on the culture we’ve developed this year.”
Van Boxtel, a six-foot-four wing, comes to Lambton College from London and John Paul II Catholic Secondary School, where he plays for the Jaguars senior boys’ basketball team under Head Coach John Shoemaker.
After a perfect 7-0 regular season in the Tier 2A division, Van Boxtel and the Jaguars had their sights set on the gold medal. In the semifinals, Van Boxtel scored 16 points to help lead the Jags to a 20-point win over Westminster S.S., 58-38, to send them to the finals. Van Boxtel and company came up just short in the end, dropping a 66-62 decision on the road at Regina Mundi Catholic H.S.
Now, as he looks ahead to what lies ahead in September at Lambton College, Van Boxtel is excited about the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead of him.
“It’s a little surreal,” said Van Boxtel after making his collegiate commitment official in the Jaguars gymnasium surrounded by family, friends, coaches, and teammates alike. “There were a lot of emotions, and I was a little nervous, but I’m super excited and really happy with the decision.”
“The whole vibe about Lambton College was really good, from how welcoming everyone was to how bright the gym is.”
Outside of high school, Van Boxtel plays for both the London Basketball Academy and GLORY Basketball.
The Van Boxtel family are no strangers to the OCAA. Billy’s dad, Dave Van Boxtel, played for the Fanshawe Falcons during his college days, as well as spending time with the Laurier Golden Hawks.
Come September, Van Boxtel is looking to forge his own path at the collegiate level, working towards his goals on the court and in the classroom.
“I’m looking forward to getting out of London and trying new things,” added Van Boxtel. “I’m excited to continue my education, learning more about Police Foundations. Then with basketball, I’m excited to continue playing the game and continually working to get better.”
“I think I play with a lot of heart on the floor, a lot of good energy and hustle. I like to say my shooting ability is my best attribute, but definitely my energy. I really want to be a team player and a good role model on the team.”
Academically, Van Boxtel will be enrolled in the Police Foundations Program at Lambton College.
Welcome to The Den, Billy!
For more information, or for any media inquiries within Lambton College Athletics, please contact:
Tyler Bennett
Lambton College Sports Information & Marketing Coordinator
tyler.bennett@lambtoncollege.ca