In the world of sports, certain high schools become renowned for producing exceptional talent. Chaminade Prep in St. Louis, Missouri, is one such institution, boasting alumni such as NBA star Jayson Tatum and NHL standout Matthew Tkachuk.
Jayson Tatum: From Chaminade to the NBA Finals
Jayson Tatum’s journey from high school prodigy to NBA sensation is nothing short of impressive. During his time at Chaminade Prep, Tatum averaged nearly 30 points per game, a feat that underscored his immense scoring ability. He led his high school team to a state championship and was subsequently named the 2016 Gatorade National Player of the Year, solidifying his status as one of the top prospects in the country.
Transitioning seamlessly into the professional arena, Tatum has continued to shine. Currently playing for the Boston Celtics, he averages an impressive 30.1 points per game this season. His leadership was instrumental in guiding the Celtics to the NBA Finals last season, and he has already made four appearances in the Eastern Conference finals. With such accomplishments, Tatum remains a pivotal player for Boston, and his trajectory suggests his best years may still lie ahead.
Matthew Tkachuk: NHL Consistency
Matthew Tkachuk’s path diverged early when he left Chaminade Prep after ninth grade to join the U.S. National Development Team. Now in his seventh NHL season, Tkachuk has proven his mettle on the ice. He has scored 40 goals in consecutive seasons, demonstrating consistency and a sharp offensive prowess. As a key player for the Florida Panthers, Tkachuk has brought the team to the brink of their first Stanley Cup Final appearance since 1996—a testament to his significant contributions.
Darius Garland and Jalen Ramsey: Brentwood Academy’s Dual Threat
Brentwood Academy in Tennessee has also made its mark, producing elite athletes like Darius Garland and Jalen Ramsey. Garland’s basketball journey began early, starting varsity in eighth grade and securing four state championships. By his senior year, he averaged a remarkable 27.6 points per game. Now, as a player for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Garland leads the team in assists and averages 21.6 points per game this season.
Jalen Ramsey, meanwhile, showcased his versatility as a multi-sport athlete, setting a Tennessee state record in the long jump. His football career skyrocketed at Florida State, where he won a BCS national championship, later triumphing in Super Bowl LVI with the Los Angeles Rams. Currently a three-time All-Pro playing for the Miami Dolphins, Ramsey continues to be a dominant force on the field.
Highland Park High’s NFL and MLB Stars
Moving to Texas, Highland Park High has given rise to NFL quarterback Matthew Stafford and MLB pitcher Clayton Kershaw. Stafford’s high school career peaked with a state championship in 2005, and he has since registered nine 4,000-yard seasons in the NFL, throwing 333 touchdown passes. His leadership culminated in a Super Bowl LVI victory with the Los Angeles Rams.
Kershaw’s high school accomplishments include a perfect season and an all-strikeout perfect game, signaling his future greatness. With the Los Angeles Dodgers, Kershaw has won three Cy Young Awards, the National League MVP, and played a pivotal role in the Dodgers' 2020 World Series win. Though he trails Justin Verlander for most strikeouts in postseason history, Kershaw's legacy as one of the game's greats is firmly established.
California and Georgia Standouts: Kelsey Plum and Diamond DeShields
La Jolla Country Day in California has produced prominent athletes like Kelsey Plum and Tommy Edman. Plum’s high school statistics were extraordinary, with over 2,000 points and 600 rebounds. She led her team to a state championship and was the first overall pick in the 2017 WNBA draft. Plum remains a crucial player for the Las Vegas Aces, helping them secure a WNBA title and averaging 17.1 points per game in the 2022 playoffs.
In Georgia, Norcross High’s Diamond DeShields and Lorenzo Carter have made significant impacts. DeShields won three state basketball titles and was the No. 3 overall pick in the 2018 WNBA draft. She has been a vital contributor to teams like the Chicago Sky, Phoenix Mercury, and Dallas Wings, including a crucial role in the Sky’s 2021 championship run.
Carter, a football standout, led Norcross to a state championship and was later drafted in the third round by the New York Giants in 2018. Despite an Achilles injury in 2020, Carter has made a strong comeback and currently plays for the Atlanta Falcons, amassing 18.5 career sacks.
Exceptional Athletes from Allen High
Finally, Allen High in Texas is renowned for producing Kyler Murray and Bo Nickal. Murray’s high school career included an astounding 43 consecutive wins and three state titles. He was the 2018 Heisman Trophy winner at Oklahoma and the No. 1 overall pick in the 2019 NFL draft. His rookie season earned him NFL Rookie of the Year honors, and he led the Arizona Cardinals to the playoffs in 2021.
Nickal’s high school wrestling career was equally impressive, capturing state championships in three different weight classes and losing only seven matches. At Penn State, he secured three national titles and has transitioned to professional mixed martial arts with an undefeated record so far.
These high schools have not only produced great athletes but also individuals who have gone on to leave indelible marks on their respective sports. Their achievements continue to inspire and set benchmarks for future generations.
