Nestled in St. Louis, Missouri, Chaminade Prep boasts alumni whose athletic prowess has echoed throughout professional sports. Among its notable graduates, two stand out for their remarkable achievements: Jayson Tatum and Matthew Tkachuk.
Jayson Tatum: Boston's Basketball Beacon
Jayson Tatum's journey from a high school phenom to an NBA superstar is nothing short of inspiring. As a teenager, Tatum averaged nearly 30 points per game and led his high school team to a state championship. His stellar performance earned him the prestigious title of 2016 Gatorade National Player of the Year. These early accolades were just a glimpse of the greatness to come.
Today, Tatum is a linchpin for the Boston Celtics. Averaging 30.1 points per game this season, he continues to be an offensive juggernaut. His contributions have propelled the Celtics to the NBA Finals last season and have seen him reach the Eastern Conference finals four times in his career. Tatum's ability to excel under pressure and his consistent performance make him a cornerstone for the Celtics and a star in the league.
Matthew Tkachuk: The Hockey Hero
Matthew Tkachuk's path diverged from Tatum’s early on. Leaving Chaminade after ninth grade, Tkachuk joined the U.S. National Development Team, a decision that set the stage for his illustrious career in the NHL. Now in his seventh season, Tkachuk has made a name for himself with back-to-back 40-goal seasons. His knack for finding the net and his tenacious playstyle have been critical for the Florida Panthers, who are on the brink of their first Stanley Cup Final appearance since 1996.
Brentwood Academy's Dynamic Duo
Shifting the spotlight to Brentwood Academy in Tennessee reveals another storied institution producing top-tier athletes, including Darius Garland and Jalen Ramsey.
Darius Garland: The Cleveland Catalyst
Starting his varsity basketball career in eighth grade, Garland demonstrated his dominance early, securing four state championships. As a senior, he averaged 27.6 points per game, a testament to his scoring ability and leadership. Currently, Garland plays for the Cleveland Cavaliers, where he leads the team in assists and averages 21.6 points per game this season. His playmaking skills and offensive contributions have solidified his role as a key player for the Cavaliers.
Jalen Ramsey: Football’s Renaissance Man
A multi-sport athlete, Jalen Ramsey's high school career at Brentwood Academy was marked by versatility and excellence. Setting a Tennessee state record in the long jump and excelling on the football field, Ramsey's athletic prowess was evident. His collegiate career at Florida State culminated in a BCS national championship, paving the way for his professional success. A three-time All-Pro, Ramsey won a Super Bowl with the Los Angeles Rams and currently strengthens the Miami Dolphins' defense.
Highland Park’s Hall of Fame
Highland Park High in Texas is another powerhouse, producing NFL quarterback Matthew Stafford and MLB pitcher Clayton Kershaw.
Matthew Stafford: The Field General
Stafford's high school career peaked with a state championship in 2005. His transition to the NFL has been seamless, posting nine 4,000-yard seasons and throwing 333 touchdown passes. Leading the Los Angeles Rams to Super Bowl LVI victory, Stafford's career is a testament to his resilience and skill as a quarterback.
Clayton Kershaw: The Diamond Dynamo
Kershaw's high school baseball career was extraordinary, highlighted by a perfect season where he struck out 139 batters, including an all-strikeout perfect game. His professional career with the Los Angeles Dodgers has been equally impressive, boasting three Cy Young Awards and a National League MVP. Kershaw's instrumental role in the Dodgers' 2020 World Series win cements his place among baseball's all-time greats, even as he chases Justin Verlander for the postseason strikeout record.
La Jolla Country Day’s Versatile Veterans
California’s La Jolla Country Day has produced versatile athletes like Kelsey Plum and Tommy Edman.
Kelsey Plum: WNBA's Prodigy
Plum’s high school career was marked by scoring over 2,000 points and leading her team to a state championship. Selected first overall in the 2017 WNBA draft, Plum became a pivotal part of the Las Vegas Aces, leading them to a WNBA title. Her impact in the 2022 playoffs, where she averaged 17.1 points per game, underscores her critical role in the team's success.
Tommy Edman: The Cardinals' Utility Man
Edman's high school records for hits, runs, doubles, and stolen bases showcase his all-around skill. In the MLB, Edman continues to be a versatile asset for the St. Louis Cardinals, demonstrating proficiency at second base, third base, and shortstop, with a career batting average of .271.
Norcross High’s Dual Dominance
Georgia’s Norcross High has given us Diamond DeShields and Lorenzo Carter, both of whom have made significant impacts in their respective sports.
Diamond DeShields: Basketball's Bright Light
DeShields’ high school career included three state basketball titles and an impressive senior year averaging 26 points per game. As the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 WNBA draft, DeShields has played for multiple teams, contributing notably to the Chicago Sky's 2021 championship run.
Lorenzo Carter: Gridiron Greatness
Recording 132 tackles and six sacks as a high school senior, Carter led Norcross to a state championship. Drafted in the third round by the New York Giants, Carter's NFL career has seen him overcome injury to become a key defensive player for the Atlanta Falcons, boasting 18.5 career sacks.
Allen High’s Athletic Achievements
Texas’ Allen High School has produced two remarkable athletes in Bo Nickal and Kyler Murray.
Kyler Murray: Football’s Future
Murray’s high school career was nothing short of spectacular, with 43 consecutive wins and three state titles. His remarkable prep career, with 186 touchdowns, led to a Heisman Trophy at Oklahoma and being the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NFL draft. Murray’s NFL journey saw him win Rookie of the Year and lead the Arizona Cardinals to the playoffs in 2021.
Bo Nickal: Wrestling’s Rising Star
Nickal’s high school wrestling dominance, with state championships in three weight classes and only seven losses, continued at Penn State, where he secured three national titles. His transition to MMA has been flawless, winning all four of his professional bouts and earning a UFC contract through Dana White's Contender Series.
These schools stand as enduring testaments to the power of nurturing young talent, producing athletes who excel at the highest levels and leave indelible marks on their respective sports.
