HBCU grad lands role in ‘Is God Is’ after Netflix ‘Forever’ appearance

Former Winston-Salem State University basketball player Xavier Mills is making major moves off the court and onto the big screen. The former CIAA athlete appears in Amazon MGM Studios’ thriller Is God Is, adding another impressive chapter to his growing Hollywood résumé and giving HBCU fans another reason to celebrate Black excellence beyond athletics.

Mills, who suited up for the Rams after beginning his collegiate career at Wallace State, has steadily emerged as one of several former HBCU athletes finding success in the entertainment industry. While many fans first knew him for his game on the hardwood, the former hooper has quietly been building momentum in film and television with appearances in projects like Netflix’s Forever and Hulu’s Chad Powers. Now, Is God Is could mark his biggest breakout moment yet.

During his collegiate career, Mills appeared in 24 games during the 2017-18 season while showcasing his versatility on both ends of the floor. Over his career, he totaled 85 points, 39 assists, 22 steals, and nine blocks, while averaging 2.4 rebounds per game. Though his basketball journey began in the CIAA, it ultimately helped lay the foundation for a growing career in entertainment.

The Amazon MGM thriller features a star-studded cast that includes Sterling K. Brown, Vivica A. Fox, and Erika Alexander. Adapted from the acclaimed stage play by playwright Aleshea Harris, Is God Is blends revenge, suspense, and dark comedy into a gripping story that has already generated significant buzz ahead of its release.

For Mills, sharing the screen with Brown became both a major opportunity and a valuable learning experience. The former athlete compared acting to basketball, explaining that he approached filming with the mentality of being part of the same team as the veteran performers around him. According to Mills, Brown showed him the importance of staying relaxed, prepared, and fully aware of the camera—lessons that continue shaping his growth as an actor.

In addition to Is God Is, Forever, and Chad Powers, Mills also appeared opposite Wanda Sykes in Undercard. His momentum shows no signs of slowing down either, as he is also expected to appear in Netflix’s Fight for ’84 later this fall.

Is God Is is now playing in theaters.

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