01 Mar 2026 Xavier Stobaugh – St. Joseph (501 Basketball Team 2026)

Xavier Stobaugh’s passion for basketball was ignited by watching NBA icons. Since starting organized play in the fourth grade, the St. Joseph senior guard has developed into a formidable force for the Bulldogs.

“What first drew me to basketball was watching LeBron James and Steph Curry when I was younger,” Stobaugh said. That early inspiration fueled a career highlighted by a thrilling game-winning shot against White County Central during his junior year.

St. Joseph Head Coach Andrew Beck has witnessed Stobaugh’s impressive evolution firsthand. “Xavier is an excellent basketball player,” he said. “The amount of growth he has shown has been such a fun show to watch.” 

While the community knows him for his sharpshooting, Beck values his drive even more. “While, yes, he is a great shooter, but to me his best quality is his competitiveness,” he said. “The kid absolutely hates to lose, and as a coach, I absolutely love that.” Last season, Stobaugh transitioned seamlessly into a primary ball-handling role following a teammate’s injury, eventually earning All-State honors.

Off the court, the honor student is a mainstay at church fundraisers and the school’s peewee basketball camps. “Xavier is the quiet life of the party kind of teammate,” Beck said. The senior plans to attend UCA to major in physical science after graduation.

Stobaugh hopes to leave a legacy as a hard worker who never gives up. “Don’t be afraid of any adversity that comes your way,” he said. “It all starts with you believing in yourself.”