He played for Glens Falls High School in New York, where he became the state's all-time leading scorer.

Girard was born and grew up in Glens Falls, New York, and began playing basketball at a young age.

[1] Girard attended Glens Falls High School, where he played basketball and football as well as junior varsity baseball, which he gave up to focus on the other two sports.

[10] In football, Girard served as Glens Falls' starting quarterback and safety while also returning kicks and punts.

After the NCAA passed the Name, Image and Likeness rules in July 2021, he formed JG3 Enterprises LLC.

[23] Girard's father, Joe Jr., played basketball at Le Moyne College under former Michigan head coach John Beilein.