Gi   Givens played at the University of Central Missouri in 2007-2008 where he was a two-time letterman. He helped lead the team to a 7-4 record each year, while he majored in physical education.

In 2006 Givens played at Southwest Mississippi Community College where he led the team to an 8-3 record, and was an All Conference selection as a sophomore. Givens was also named a pre-season All American prior to the 2006 season. As a freshman at SMCC, Givens received an All Conference selection as the Bears went 7-4.

Givens attended High School at New Madrid County Central in Missouri, and led his team to a 2^nd place finish in state during 2002.