• Nicknames: “Big Ox”
• Position: C
• Height: 6'9“
• Weight: 245 lbs.
• Birthday: September 2, 1991
• Hometown: Suffolk, VA
• High School: King's Fork High School
• AAU Team: Petersburg Elite
  

On May 3, 2010, Gardner committed to Marquette despite a scholarship offer from South Florida. Devante also had interest from Ball State, Georgetown, Maryland, Penn State, and VCU.

• Newest MU Recruit Expected to Provide Size, Skill to Frontcourt, JSOnline.com
• A Closer Look at Davante Gardner, JSOnline.com

His junior year was momentous as it culminated in a state title for King's Fork. Davante was selected as a second-team all-stater.

However, it was his senior year when Davante blossomed. He surpassed the 1,000 career point mark early in the season and became the third King's Fork player to do so. He led his King’s Fork basketball team to a 24-3 record. It was the Bulldogs’ second straight undefeated season through the Southeastern District, third consecutive district tourney title, and fourth straight year reaching the Eastern Region Tournament.

While averaging 23 points (led all South Hampton Roads Group AAA players), 13 rebounds and two blocks per game as a senior, he finished his three-year varsity career with 1,431 points and 992 rebounds.

Davante piled up multiple accolades during his senior campaign:

• Associated Press (Virginia) Group AAA boys basketball first team
• VHSCA (Virginia High School Coaches Association) Group AAA All-State Team (top center in the state)
• First-team All-Eastern Region
• First-team All-Southeastern District

Born September 2, 1991 in Suffolk, Va. … Son of Audie and Sheila Gardner … Mother played basketball at Elizabeth City State University … Undecided on a major.