The 6-foot-2, 210-pound defensive back committed to Black Knight defensive coordinator Jay Bateman on July 21, 2014.
“The combination of great academics and athletics at West Point really put them over the top. Football is not the main thing there, neither is academics, but the combination of the two is outstanding. I also loved the staff. My relationship with Coach Bateman played a big part in my decision. My lacrosse coach went there and loved it. I wanted a challenge. I know West Point won’t be easy, but it will be worth it.”
James Gibson had additional offers from Coastal Carolina, Delaware, Elon, Fordham, James Madison, Liberty, Maine, Nevada, Norfolk State, Old Dominion, and William and Mary.
“I’m excited about the defense (that Army) plays. It’s a fun defense to be in with the pressure they put on teams, they play some zone coverage, and get after the quarterback. It’s an aggressive style of defense similar to what we play at Westfield.”
Gibson has started 41 consecutive games at Westfield since his sophomore season. As a senior, Gibson was named first team All-District for a second consecutive season, the District’s Defensive Player of the Year, first team All-Region, the Region’s Defensive Player of the Year, first team All-State, Virginia’s Defensive Player of the Year, and first team All-Metro (Northern Virginia). He had 50 tackles, seven tackles for loss, three interceptions and blocked a punt on the 2014 season. Gibson is the son of Wede Gibson and James Doe Gibson Jr. He will be going to USMA direct.