The legacy of legendary athletes often begins in the unassuming halls of high schools across the United States. Institutions like Chaminade Prep, Brentwood Academy, and others have become breeding grounds for future stars in various sports. Here's a look at some notable alumni making waves in their professional careers.
Chaminade Prep: The Birthplace of Tkachuk and Tatum
Chaminade Prep in St. Louis, Missouri, has produced two standout athletes: Matthew Tkachuk and Jayson Tatum. Tatum, who is currently dazzling fans as a player for the Boston Celtics, averaged nearly 30 points per game during his high school years. He led his team to a state championship and was named the 2016 Gatorade National Player of the Year. Fast forward to the NBA, Tatum continues to shine, averaging 30.1 points per game this season. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the Celtics to the NBA Finals last season, marking his fourth appearance in the Eastern Conference finals.
Matthew Tkachuk also began his journey at Chaminade Prep before leaving after ninth grade to join the U.S. National Development Team. Tkachuk is now in his seventh NHL season, showcasing his scoring prowess by netting 40 goals in consecutive seasons. His contributions have been vital for the Florida Panthers, who are on the cusp of their first Stanley Cup Final appearance since 1996.
Brentwood Academy's Dual Threat: Garland and Ramsey
Brentwood Academy in Tennessee has been the launching pad for athletes like Darius Garland and Jalen Ramsey. Garland, who started playing varsity basketball in eighth grade, won four state championships and averaged 27.6 points per game as a senior. Currently playing for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Garland is a key playmaker, leading the team in assists and averaging 21.6 points per game this season.
On the football field, Jalen Ramsey was a multi-sport star at Brentwood Academy, setting a Tennessee state record in the long jump. His athletic career continued to flourish as he won a BCS national championship at Florida State and a Super Bowl with the Los Angeles Rams. Now a three-time All-Pro, Ramsey is a crucial component of the Miami Dolphins' defense.
Highland Park High: Stafford and Kershaw Shine
Highland Park High in Texas can boast of alumni like Matthew Stafford and Clayton Kershaw. Stafford led his team to a state championship in 2005 and has maintained a stellar career in the NFL, posting nine 4,000-yard seasons and throwing 333 touchdown passes. His persistence and skill culminated in leading the Los Angeles Rams to victory in Super Bowl LVI.
Clayton Kershaw's high school career was equally impressive; he had a perfect season, striking out 139 batters, including an all-strikeout perfect game. In the Major Leagues, Kershaw has won three Cy Young Awards and the National League MVP, significantly contributing to the Dodgers' 2020 World Series win. He currently trails only Justin Verlander for most strikeouts in postseason history.
La Jolla Country Day: From Plum to Edman
La Jolla Country Day in California has seen remarkable athletes such as Kelsey Plum and Tommy Edman. Plum scored over 2,000 points and grabbed more than 600 rebounds in high school, leading her team to a state championship. She was the first overall pick in the 2017 WNBA draft and has been pivotal for the Las Vegas Aces, helping them secure a WNBA title.
Tommy Edman made his mark in high school by setting records for hits, runs, doubles, and stolen bases. He has carried this versatility into his professional career with the St. Louis Cardinals, starting at various infield positions and maintaining a career batting average of .271.
Norcross High: DeShields and Carter Lead the Way
Norcross High in Georgia has produced exceptional talents like Diamond DeShields and Lorenzo Carter. DeShields won three state basketball titles in high school, averaging 26 points per game as a senior. She became the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 WNBA draft and has played crucial roles for the Chicago Sky, Phoenix Mercury, and Dallas Wings, particularly in the Sky's 2021 championship run.
Lorenzo Carter, a football powerhouse, recorded 132 tackles and six sacks as a senior. He led Norcross to a state championship and was a third-round pick by the New York Giants in 2018. Despite an Achilles injury in 2020, Carter continues to make an impact with the Atlanta Falcons, amassing 18.5 career sacks.
Allen High: The Rise of Nickal and Murray
Allen High in Texas is another powerhouse, nurturing talents such as Bo Nickal and Kyler Murray. Murray's high school career was nothing short of spectacular; he won 43 consecutive games, leading his team to three state titles and accounting for 186 touchdowns. His success continued at Oklahoma with the 2018 Heisman Trophy, followed by being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NFL draft. Murray's NFL journey began with the Rookie of the Year award and leading the Arizona Cardinals to the 2021 playoffs.
Bo Nickal's wrestling career at Allen High was equally remarkable, winning state championships in three different weight classes. With only seven losses in high school, Nickal dominated at Penn State with three national titles. He has transitioned seamlessly to professional fighting, winning all four of his bouts so far and securing a UFC contract.
These high schools across America have not just educated but also molded future sports stars who continue to make significant impacts in their respective fields, captivating fans and making history.
