Class of 2028 Already Proving Itself to Be Full of Talent

Bolingbrook: Last season, Davion Thompson from Bolingbrook and Jaxson Davis from Warren had standout years as freshmen. They were joined by Kenwood’s Devin Cleveland, making quite the trio. But this year’s freshman class is even more impressive, with not just top prospects but also great depth.

Cole Kelly from Neuqua Valley and Brady Pettigrew from Bolingbrook are the big names to watch. Kelly, a 6-5 wing, has been a standout, scoring 31 points recently and averaging 18.1 points and 9.4 rebounds. He’s already got offers from Illinois and DePaul.

Pettigrew, a versatile 6-4 guard, is part of a strong 16-2 team and is still finding his role. He’s got some solid support from his older brother, JT Pettigrew, who’s headed to Valparaiso.

Ethan Vahl, a smooth 6-2 guard from Oswego, is also making waves with averages of 16.5 points and 5.2 rebounds. Meanwhile, 6-8 Amari Williams is holding his own at Shepard, averaging 8.4 points and 7.6 rebounds.

Darrius Hawkins, a poised point guard, has been crucial for Homewood-Flossmoor, helping them to a 16-2 start. Ben Ojala from Evanston has also stepped up, hitting key shots and averaging just under eight points with 26 three-pointers this season.

There are plenty of other freshmen to keep an eye on, like CJ Pittman from Payton, DeAndre Higgs from Thornton, and many more from schools across the state.

The talent isn’t just local. Archie Goewey from Centralia made headlines by leading his team to a holiday tournament title, even earning MVP honors as a freshman.

Danville’s Amir Beasley and Peoria’s Amarion Smith-Holley are also turning heads, while Metamora boasts a strong freshman class with Brady Jones, Kayden Turner, and Sam Koch.