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SEC Athletes Since 2016 Who Could’ve Profited the Most From NIL: Inside the SEC

Late last Friday night, after years of litigation, Judge Claudia Wilken approved the landmark House v. NCAA settlement, which will allow schools to participate in revenue sharing directly with the athletes, and there will be a salary cap system ($20.5 million to athletes) plus roster limits to college sports. This settlement was from a branch […]

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Late last Friday night, after years of litigation, Judge Claudia Wilken approved the landmark House v. NCAA settlement, which will allow schools to participate in revenue sharing directly with the athletes, and there will be a salary cap system ($20.5 million to athletes) plus roster limits to college sports.

This settlement was from a branch of three lawsuits combined into one case, which addressed compensation for collegiate athletes. The results of this case also bring $2.8 billion in damages for former and current athletes since 2016 who were not able to profit from NIL, as the name, image and likeness model was created in the summer of 2021.

While the form of distribution by sport is yet to be officially determined, like today’s NIL, those in athletic programs such as football and men’s basketball will likely receive a higher paycheck than the other fields. But of course, there are outlying athletes in sports like baseball, softball, gymnastics and more that have earned far more than the average person in their sport.

These Olympians and world-class athletes since 2016 will be compensated over the next 10 years via the $2.8 billion, but how much would they have made if NIL and revenue sharing were available when they were in college?

The Southeastern Conference has produced countless national champions, world record holders and Olympic gold medalists over the last decade who never got to take full advantage of NIL. Here is one former athlete from each SEC school that could’ve profited the most off their name, image and likeness when they were in college.

Note: Oklahoma and Texas joined the SEC in 2024, but the athletes listed below from these schools were in the Big 12 at the time of their enrollment.

Alabama: DeVonta Smith

Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver DeVonta Smith (6)

Jan 11, 2021; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver DeVonta Smith (6) against the Ohio State Buckeyes in the 2021 College Football Playoff National Championship Game. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images / Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The former Crimson Tide pass-catcher became one of the all-time greats during the 2020 season as in addition to winning the CFP National Championship, he became just the fourth wide receiver in college football history to take home the Heisman Trophy. He was constantly doubted due to his slim frame, but his ability to overcome it and dominate is what sports companies salivate for.

Runner-up: Tua Tagovailoa, Brandon Miller and Collin Sexton

Arkansas: Kevin Kopps

Kevin Kopps

Arkansas Baseball Pitcher Kevin Kopps / Arkansas Baseball’s X/Twitter

The former Razorbacks pitcher had too many accolades to not be offered brand deals. In addition to being named the 2021 SEC Pitcher of the Year and landing on the conference’s postseason First Team, Kopps won the Golden Spikes Award, the Dick Howser Trophy, was a Unanimous First Team All-American and was named the National Pitcher of the Year by every major organization.

Runner-up: Frank Ragnow

Auburn: Suni Lee

Auburn gymnast Suni Lee

Feb 3, 2023; Tuscaloosa, AL, USA; Auburn gymnast Suni Lee competes on the balance beam where she scored the second of her 10.0 scores at Coleman Coliseum. Alabama edged Auburn 197.850 to 197.700. / Gary Cosby Jr. / USA TODAY NETWORK

The former Tigers gymnast is a two-time all-around gold medalist, has a silver medal and a bronze as well. But while at Auburn, she was named the 2022 SEC Freshman of the Year, was the NCAA champion on beam, the NCAA runner-up on all-around and was the SEC champion on bars. Her immediate success certainly would’ve attracted brand deals across the globe.

Runner-up: Jabari Smith

Florida: Caeleb Dressel

Florida Swimmer Caeleb Dressel

Florida Swimmer Caeleb Dressel / Florida Swim Network’s X/Twitter

And speaking of Olympic powerhouses, the former Florida swimmer has won nine gold medals between three Olympic Games. While swimming typically isn’t the most lucrative sport for NIL, companies would’ve clawed their way to Dressel in college as the 28-time All-American (the most you could possibly achieve) was a 10-time NCAA Champion and three-time SEC Swimmer of the Year.

Runner-up: Kyle Pitts

Georgia: Anthony Edwards

Georgia Bulldogs guard Anthony Edwards (5)

Feb 19, 2020; Athens, Georgia, USA; Georgia Bulldogs guard Anthony Edwards (5) reacts after making a three point shot against the Auburn Tigers during the second half at Stegeman Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-Imagn Images / Dale Zanine-Imagn Images

Aside from Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame forward Dominique Wilkins, UGA hasn’t really produced notable NBA talent. That was until Anthony Edwards came along and his high-flying freakish athleticism helped him become the No. 1 overall pick of 2020 NBA Draft. The three-time NBA All-Star and 2024 Olympic gold medalist’s confidence with the Bulldogs would’ve been gold for the cameras.

Runner-up: Nick Chubb

Kentucky: Shai Gilgeous-Alexander

Kentucky Wildcats guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (22)

Mar 11, 2018; St. Louis, MO, USA; Kentucky Wildcats guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (22) cuts down the net after the Wildcats defeat the Tennessee Volunteers in the SEC Conference Tournament Championship game at Scottrade Center. Kentucky won 77-72. Mandatory Credit: Billy Hurst-Imagn Images / Billy Hurst-Imagn Images

The 2025 NBA MVP and three-time All-NBA First Team member was quite the talent to watch at Kentucky. Despite being on a Wildcats team that had six other future NBA players, Gilgeous-Alexander was named to the All-SEC Freshman Team, the All-SEC Second Team and was named the SEC Tournament MVP. A young standout at a Blue Blood school is an automatic yes to companies.

Runner-up: Josh Hines-Allen

LSU: Joe Burrow

LSU quarterback Joe Burrow (9)

LSU quarterback Joe Burrow (9) holds up the trophy after their victory against Clemson at the College Football National Championship game at the Mercedes Benz Superdome Monday, Jan. 13, 2020. / JOSH MORGAN/Staff, The Greenville News via Imagn Content Services, LLC

The former Tigers quarterback took a risk when he transferred from Ohio State after two years and his junior season at LSU wasn’t anything special. But a switch flipped in him and he had one of the greatest individual seasons of all time in 2019, as he won the CFP National Championship, the Heisman Trophy and several other awards. Burrow’s story would’ve made him millions in just that year.

Runner-up: Paul Skenes and Sha’Carri Richardson

Mississippi State: Montez Sweat

Mississippi State's Montez Sweat (9)

Mississippi State’s Montez Sweat (9) is tied for third in the nation with 8.5 sacks this season. Photo by Keith Warren/Madatory Photo Credit

Msu Auburn montez sweat / Keith Warren, Keith Warren

After barely seeing time on the field in two years at Michigan State, the former Mississippi State edge rusher annihilated opponents during his first season with the Bulldogs. Sweat led the SEC in tackles for loss and sacks to become a First Team All-American. Sweat’s bet on himself paid off and his last name would’ve been great to profit off of for tons of different companies while in college.

Runner-up: Jeffery Simmons

Missouri: Drew Lock

Missouri Tigers quarterback Drew Lock (3)

Sep 8, 2018; Columbia, MO, USA; Missouri Tigers quarterback Drew Lock (3) throws a pass during the first half against the Wyoming Cowboys at Memorial Stadium/Faurot Field. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images / Denny Medley-Imagn Images

The former Tigers quarterback was a four-year starter who blew up in 2017 after leading the SEC in pass attempts and yards while also being No. 1 in FBS in touchdown passes. Lock, who is just one of three Mizzou QBs to see an NFL gridiron since 2010, was known for his backpack celebration that he performed after his 44 touchdowns. He could’ve had numerous deals with backpack companies.

Runner-up: Sophie Cunningham

Ole Miss: A.J. Brown

Mississippi Rebels wide receiver A.J. Brown (1)

Sep 2, 2017; Oxford, MS, USA; Mississippi Rebels wide receiver A.J. Brown (1) carries the ball against the South Alabama Jaguars during the second half at Vaught-Hemingway Stadium. Mississippi Rebels defeated the South Alabama Jaguars 47-27. Mandatory Credit: Justin Ford-Imagn Images / Justin Ford-Imagn Images

What’s better than leading the SEC in receiving yards once? How about twice? That’s just what former Ole Miss wide receiver A.J. Brown, who is the Rebels’ all-time receiving leader, did in 2017 and 2018. What also made Brown very marketable besides his accolades was the fact that he was drafted by the San Diego Padres in 2016 as an outfielder. Two-sport athletes are a gold mine for third parties.

Runner-up: D.K. Metcalf

Oklahoma: Kyler Murray

Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Kyler Murray (1)

Dec 29, 2018; Miami Gardens, FL, USA; Oklahoma Sooners quarterback Kyler Murray (1) in the 2018 Orange Bowl college football playoff semifinal game against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images / Jasen Vinlove-Imagn Images

And speaking of two-sport athletes, in high school, Murray became the first player to be named Mr. Texas Football twice after winning three consecutive state championships and was also a highly touted baseball star. Murray was eventually picked No. 9 overall in the 2018 MLB Draft. But in that same year, he won the Heisman Trophy and was later selected No. 1 overall in the 2019 NFL Draft!

Runner-up: Baker Mayfield, Jocelyn Alo and Trae Young

South Carolina: A’ja Wilson

South Carolina Gamecocks forward A'ja Wilson (22)

Mar 4, 2018; Nashville, TN, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks forward A’ja Wilson (22) celebrates after a win against the Mississippi State Lady Bulldogs in the SEC Conference Tournament championship game at Bridgestone Arena. Mandatory Credit: Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images / Christopher Hanewinckel-Imagn Images

Wilson is another athlete who became a known name in high school, as the three-time WNBA MVP was named the National High School Player of the Year in 2014. Her college career was even more illustrious as the three-time SEC Player of the Year won the Wooden Award and Naismith Award in 2018. Simply put, Wilson had way too many accomplishments to not have endorsements.

Runner-up: Aliyah Boston

Tennessee: Grant Williams

Tennessee Volunteers forward Grant Williams (2)

Jan 19, 2019; Knoxville, TN, USA; Tennessee Volunteers forward Grant Williams (2) reacts to being charged with a foul during the second half against the Alabama Crimson Tide at Thompson-Boling Arena. Tennessee won 71 to 68. Mandatory Credit: Randy Sartin-Imagn Images / Randy Sartin-Imagn Images

The former Tennessee forward ruled the Southeastern Conference during his tenure as he was named the SEC Player of the Year in 2018 and 2019––the first player to win the award in back-to-back years since 1995. Williams was also a consensus First Team All-American in 2019 and his intensity and tenaciousness on both sides of the ball would certainly draw interest from a variety of brands.

Runner-up: Jalin Hyatt

Texas: Mo Bamba

Texas Longhorns forward Mohamed Bamba (4)

Jan 22, 2018; Austin, TX, USA; Texas Longhorns forward Mohamed Bamba (4) reacts against the Iowa State Cyclones during the second half at the Frank Erwin Center. The Longhorns won 73-57. Mandatory Credit: Brendan Maloney-Imagn Images / Brendan Maloney-Imagn Images

The former Texas center may not be the No. 1 athlete on this list, but his last name might’ve made him the most money. Bamba grew up with rapper Sheck Wes in Harlem, N.Y., and the rapper created a song during Bamba’s freshman year called “Mo Bamba”––a worldwide phenomenon. Who knows how much money Bamba could’ve made from this and the NIL opportunities that would follow it?

Runner-up: Scottie Scheffler

Texas A&M: Myles Garrett

Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15)

Sep 19, 2015; College Station, TX, USA; Texas A&M Aggies defensive lineman Myles Garrett (15) reacts after making a sack during the first quarter against the Nevada Wolf Pack at Kyle Field. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-Imagn Images / Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

A lot of No. 1 overall ranked high school prospects over the years didn’t exactly pan out while others met the major expectations in the future. The former Texas A&M defensive end was certainly the latter as the four-time NFL First Team-All Pro was the unanimous No. 1 recruit in 2014 and was selected No. 1 in the 2017 NFL Draft. NIL seeks the best and he exceeded expectations at all stages.

Runner-up: De’Von Achane

Vanderbilt: JJ Bleday

Vanderbilt right fielder JJ Bleday (51)

June 10, 2018; Nashville, TN, USA; Vanderbilt right fielder JJ Bleday (51) celebrates as he heads toward home after hitting a walkoff home run to beat Mississippi State, 4-3, at the NCAA Super Regional at Hawkins Field. Mandatory Credit: George Walker IV/The Tennessean via USA TODAY NETWORK / George Walker IV-Imagn Images

Former Vanderbilt outfielder JJ Bleday had quite the 2019 campaign as he was a First Team All-American, the SEC Player of the Year and the SEC Tournament MVP. The No. 4 pick of the 2019 MLB Draft’s 27 home runs were a Vanderbilt single-season record and it also led the country. Being the star player on a College World Series championship-winning team is the golden ticket to NIL deals.

Runner-up: Darius Garland

Official Tally:

After a tremendous regular season for the conference that “just means more,” a record-breaking 13 teams from the SEC were selected to participate In the 2025 NCAA Division I Baseball Tournament. This is the second time this year that the Southeastern Conference broke a tournament record as men’s basketball had 14 teams featured in the NCAA Tournament.

Of those 13 baseball teams, eight of them hosted a regional––half of the 16-team and 1-seed field. This historic feat had all eyes on the SEC over the past couple of weeks, which also put a target on the conference’s back.

Simply put, SEC opponents during the regionals round hit a bullseye. Regional hosts Vanderbilt and Texas, the overall No. 1 and No. 2 seeds respectively, were quickly eliminated. It was just the second time ever that the No. 1 and 2 national seeds both failed to make the Super Regionals.

Only four of the 13 SEC teams advanced to the Super Regionals in the best-of-three format last week. Auburn fell to Coastal Carolina in two games, national 3-seed Arkansas defeated SEC foe and defending national champion Tennessee in the same fashion and 6-seed LSU cruised past West Virginia 2-0 as well.

In short, of the 13 SEC teams who made the regionals round, only Arkansas and LSU advanced to the College World Series in Omaha, Nebraska, along with six other teams. The eight Super Regional winners are split into two double-elimination brackets with four teams in each. Here’s a look at the first matchups for each bracket, as the two SEC programs will face off right away.

2025 Men's College World Series Bracket

2025 Men’s College World Series Bracket / NCAA

Following the House v. NCAA Settlement, SEC commissioner Greg Sankey and Notre Dame athletic director Pete Bevacqua met with United States President Donald Trump on Sunday at his golf course in Bedminster, N.J. to discuss the impacts of the historic court case.

“I’ve always appreciated his interest in college sports,” Sankey said on Monday, per Matt Fortuna on X (formerly known as Twitter). “We’ve hosted him at some of our games. … It was helpful for me and for Pete as well to hear his thought and his perspective and share some of ours. I think those are best left for the moment on the golf course.”

Sankey went on The Paul Finebaum Show on Monday and discussed the meeting.

Inside the SEC will appear every Wednesday.





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Alabama Crimson Tide suddenly caught looking up at oil-driven NIL powerhouse in race for top overall 2027 recruit

Alabama Crimson Tide suddenly caught looking up at oil-driven NIL powerhouse in race for top overall 2027 recruit originally appeared on A to Z Sports. The recruiting world has been kind to Kalen DeBoer and the Alabama Crimson Tide, as the program is close to ranking in the top spot for the 2026 class. Of […]

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Alabama Crimson Tide suddenly caught looking up at oil-driven NIL powerhouse in race for top overall 2027 recruit originally appeared on A to Z Sports.

The recruiting world has been kind to Kalen DeBoer and the Alabama Crimson Tide, as the program is close to ranking in the top spot for the 2026 class. Of course, there’s time for flips to happen and development to change boards, but the Tide are on a hot streak when it comes to pitching their blueblood status.

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The 2027 class is also getting its time in the spotlight, and the top overall recruit has had Alabama fighting for his top spot until a behemoth emerged. Five-star edge rusher LaDamion Guyton has gone from an Alabama toss-up to the backseat in this race.

That unexpected force is Texas Tech, which has turned into a monstrous presence on the recruiting trail with arguably the deepest pockets in college sports. Just recently, On3 reported that Lubbock is going hard for the No. 1 prospect.

“Guyton, a top target for Georgia and South Carolina in the 2027 cycle out of Savannah (Ga.) Benedictine, soaked up the sights and sounds of Lubbock in June. The Red Raiders have been trending in the right direction with the five-star target ever since.”

The new revenue sharing model is having effects on how teams offer structured deals, and Alabama is falling in line with what Texas and Ohio State has had to adapt. They can’t simply outspend every program because they have multiple successful programs within their athletic department, and a deep roster to retain.

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Not even two months ago, On3 reported that Alabama was facing off against Georgia for the elite prospect.

“Georgia was the first to offer the coveted in-state prospect in June 2023, and they remain the program setting the pace in this recruitment. Guyton has visited Athens numerous times, including this past weekend. Alabama, Auburn, Oregon, USC, South Carolina, Tennessee, LSU and Miami are some of the other programs that have extended a scholarship and working to gain traction. Guyton tells Simmons visits will pick back up during the season.”

It’s possible an in-person trip to Alabama can swing things this fall. Their gameday experience in Tuscaloosa is excellent, and DeBoer’s staff has repeatedly sold a family-like environment successfully. It’s a huge reason why Alabama has excelled despite facing some of the same issues Oregon does, but the Tide haven’t slid back.

Will Guyton prioritize the start-up situation in Lubbock for a massive payday, or can Alabama claw its way back in? We’ll be monitoring throughout this season.

View the original article to see embedded media.

This story was originally reported by A to Z Sports on Jul 9, 2025, where it first appeared.



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Who was the top West Ottawa athlete of the quarter century?

With the century a quarter done, the Holland Sentinel is selecting its top 25 athletes from the past quarter century. We will start with the top 25 from each school and move on to the top 25 overall male and female high school athletes from the past 25 years. Athletes must be graduated to be […]

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With the century a quarter done, the Holland Sentinel is selecting its top 25 athletes from the past quarter century.

We will start with the top 25 from each school and move on to the top 25 overall male and female high school athletes from the past 25 years.

Athletes must be graduated to be eligible. There are extra spots on the team for the top club gymnasts and those who did their best swimming on the club scene, not taking away from other West Ottawa spots.

Today: West Ottawa

Tabahn Afrik

Class of 2015

Ushering in a new era in West Ottawa swimming, Tabahn Afrik spearheaded a resurgence for the Panthers as a state power. He won the Division 1 state championship in the 100 freestyle twice, also claiming state titles in the 50 freestyle and 200 freestyle once each. That doesn’t include relay state titles. Afrik was a national and junior national qualifier and went on to swim at Notre Dame and became an All-American for the Fighting Irish.

Isabel Anaya

Class of 2025

Anaya was a four-time all-state wrestler and became the first female wrestler in area history to claim a state championship. She went undefeated as a senior and claimed a title. She will wrestler next year in college.

Nicole Artz

Class of 2013

Since West Ottawa does not have a varsity gymnastics program, and very few do anymore, Nicole Artz made her presence known on the club gymnastics scene. Artz was a Level 10 national qualifier and national champion before moving on to the University of Michigan where she was a multiple All-American and NCAA qualifier and one of the top gymnasts in the history of the Wolverines.

Tyler Bosma

Class of 2018

One of the most well-rounded athletes the area has ever seen, Tyler Bosma made a huge mark in multiple sports for West Ottawa. On the basketball court, he earned all-state honors as a senior and led the Panthers to the Class A state championship game, the school’s best finish. He was perhaps even better on the mound, earning all-state baseball honors and pitching at Miami (Ohio) and then the University of Kentucky.

Jessi Buis

Class of 2012

A national qualifier in club gymnastics, competing for Champion Gymnastics, Buis went on to compete at Western Michigan where she became a MAC champion in the vault.

Taylor Buis

Class of 2016

A national champion in club gymnastics, competing for Champion Gymnastics, Buis went on to compete at Western Michigan where she helped the Broncos win a MAC title. She also was a star track athlete for West Ottawa.

Spencer Carl

Class of 2017

One of the most powerful athletes in the pool, Spencer Carl used his strength to claim multiple state championships during his career. He won the Division 1 state title in the 500 freestyle twice and won the 200 IM and 200 freestyle once each on his way to four state titles. He was a USA national and junior national qualifier and went on to swim at Louisville and Michigan.

Ato Condelee

Class of 2013

It didn’t matter what the sport was, Ato Condelee was going to show his athleticism. In track and field, he was the Division 1 state champion in the long jump as a senior after multiple all-state finishes in the long jump and high jump. He also played football and basketball for the Panthers and ended up playing football at Ferris State University.

Natalie Dunn

Class of 2019

One of the most athletic multi-sport athletes in recent memory, Natalie Dunn helped transform the volleyball and basketball programs at West Ottawa. She was an all-state volleyball player and all-state guard in basketball, setting multiple school records in both sports. She also starred in track and field but decided to play volleyball in college, earning an NCAA Division I scholarship at Furman.

Ameer Ismail

Class of 2002

One of the top football defenders in the state, Ameer Ismail was a one-man wrecking crew as a linebacker. He also rushed for 1,544 yards and 25 touchdowns as a sophomore before setting the career mark at 2,920 yards and 44 touchdowns. He finished with 12 varsity letters and broke six school track and field records before playing football at Western Michigan where he was an All-American linebacker. He also played basketball and was one of the leading scorers in the OK Red.

Shelby Lacy

Class of 2011

The fastest breaststroker in area history, Shelby Lacy claimed back-to-back Division 1 state championships in the 100-yard breaststroke, a feat no one has matched at Division 1. She also was part of West Ottawa’s state champion 200 medley relay. She went on to swim at Michigan State where she broke the school record in the 100 breaststroke.

Raegan Lantz

Class of 2024

Lantz was on the Miss Volleyball watch list and was named Sentinel Player of the Year twice. She went on to play at Miami (Ohio) at the NCAA Division I level where she starts and is an outspoken advocate for diabetes awareness. Was also a strong hurdler on the track team.

Stephanie Lebster

Class of 2022

Was a national champion club gymnast before heading to Michigan State where she led the Spartans to back-to-back Big Ten titles and the program’s first trip to nationals.

Cortney Lokker Naber

Class of 2004

Making her home on the court, Cortney Lokker was a two-time all-state volleyball player for the Panthers, amassing several school records along the way, becoming one of the top players in school history. She also was a strong basketball player, earning three varsity letters and Holland Sentinel Dream Team honors in both sports. Played volleyball at Grand Valley State and led the Lakers to the 2005 NCAA championship.

Derek Maas

Class of 2019

In one of the biggest performances in the pool, Derek Maas claimed the Division 1 state championship in the 200 IM and 100 butterfly, plus was part of two winning relays as West Ottawa won the team state title in 2019, capping a spectacular career. Maas went on to swim at Alabama and was the SEC champion in the 100 breaststroke as a junior and an NCAA All-American after qualifying for the U.S. Olympic Trials. He transferred to NYU and won a Division III breaststroke national title.

Kevin Maas

Class of 2022

Following in the footsteps of his older siblings, Kevin Maas claimed back-to-back Division 1 state championships in the 50 freestyle and led the Panthers to a winning 200 freestyle relay during his fast career with the Panthers. He also was a junior national qualifier and earned a scholarship to swim at the University of Michigan. 

Kyle Maas 

Class of 2016

Overshadowed by teammates and one of the best swimmers in the history of the state, Kyle Maas proved to hang with the best as a four-time individual state runner up in Division 1. He was a junior national and national qualifier before heading to Alabama. He qualified for the U.S. Olympic Swimming Trials in 2016 and 2020. 

Mike McClure

Class of 2009

Making his noise on the mat, Mike McClure was one of the top wrestlers in the history of the state. As a senior, he went undefeated (55-0) at heavyweight on his way to the Division 1 state championship and national runner-up finish. He was a multiple all-state athlete and went on to wrestle at Michigan State, where he earned All-American honors. Also played football for the Panthers.

Adam Mena

Class of 2008

One of the few athletes of the series still active as a professional, Adam Mena was one of the top soccer players in the history of West Michigan. He earned all-state honors on the pitch, playing all over the field, before moving on to play soccer at Notre Dame, then on the professional level for nearly a decade.

Sarah Moraw

Class of 2022

After winning the national championship in vault at the club high school level, Moraw went on to Minnesota where she became a Big Ten champion on the balance beam.

Desmond Morgan

Class of 2011

One of the top defenders in the state, Desmond Morgan was a dynamite linebacker and an all-state performer in Division 1. He also was the leading rusher for the Panthers on the offensive side of the ball and played hockey and lacrosse at West Ottawa before heading to the University of Michigan where he was a four-year starter at linebacker for the Wolverines.

Spencer Nadolsky

Class of 2002

One of the top wrestlers in area history, Spencer Nadolsky was a state champion and multiple state finalist on the wrestling mats to earn multiple all-state honors. He was also all-state honorable mention in football before going on to wrestle at Michigan State and then North Carolina.

David Nykerk

Class of 2004

One of the top arms in local history, David Nykerk was an all-state pitcher who led the Panthers to their first state championship in baseball. He was the Sentinel Player of the Year and earned a scholarship to pitch at the University of Michigan.

Arianne Olson

Class of 2023

The elite distance runner claimed multiple state titles and state runner-up finishes during her career and was all-state in both track and cross country, leading the Panthers to a state cross country title. She now runs at Notre Dame.

Gabby Reynolds

Class of 2024

The top girls basketball player in the history of the area, Reynolds was named Miss Basketball of Michigan as a senior. She led the Panthers to a regional championship and became the area’s all-time leading scorer. She starts at George Washington.

Helen Sachs

Class of 2025

Overcoming an eating disorder that brought her career to a halt, Sachs battled back and claimed the Division 1 state championship in the 3,200 meters as a senior. She was a state runner-up multiple times in track and won the D1 cross country state title as a sophomore, leading the Panthers to the team title. She will run at Notre Dame next year.

Mackenzie Stephens

Class of 2011

A powerful force at the net, Mackenzie Stephens was one of the top middle hitters in area history. As a senior, she was a Miss Volleyball of Michigan finalist on her way to breaking school records for kills and blocks. Landed an NCAA Division I scholarship at Marist University where she was a captain and all-conference performer. 

Natalie Stitt

Class of 2006

Doing her best work on the boards, Natalie Stitt was the Division 1 state champion in diving as a junior. She was all-state three times and was a multiple regional champion. She also earned all-state honors in the pole vault before heading to Notre Dame where she became one of the top divers in school history, as an NCAA qualifier and school record holder.

Liz Sundburg

Class of 2006

The all-state middle hitter was the Sentinel Co-Player of the Year as a senior before earning an NCAA Division I scholarship to play at the University of Toledo, where she was a starter at middle hitter.

Cooper Terpstra

Class of 2023

One of the top offensive linemen in area football history, Terpstra was a first-team all-state selection as a senior and went on to play at Michigan State.

Ryan Verhelst

Class of 2013

The all-state defensive back was one of the top defensive players in Holland-area history. He went on to play cornerback at Saginaw Valley State and was an All-GLIAC selection. Was also a standout baseball and basketball player at West Ottawa.

Dani VanderZwaag

Class of 2014

Continuing the success of the West Ottawa diving program, Dani VanderZwaag was one of the tops in school history, claiming the Division 1 state championship in 2013 to help the Panthers win their first ever girls state title in swimming and diving in one of the biggest upsets in state swimming history. VanderZwaag went on to dive at the University of Michigan and was one of the top platform divers in the Big Ten.

Jake Van Tubbergen

Class of 2017

A first-team all-state basketball player in Division 1, Jake Van Tubbergen was arguably the best basketball player in school history. He led the Panthers to a resurgence and a regional final berth, where they lost a heartbreaker his senior season. He went on to play at Grand Valley State and was an NCAA Division II All-American and one of the all-time leading scorers and rebounders in GVSU history.

Tyler Van Tubbergen

Class of 2009

One of the top quarterbacks in area history, he led the Panthers to multiple playoff appearances and went on to become an NCAA Division I starting quarterback at Western Michigan.

CJ Van Wieren

Class of 2003

A multi-sport master, CJ Van Wieren was an elite all-around athlete. On the football field, he was an all-state quarterback that set eight school records. He also earned all-state honors in basketball, playing at Ferris State in both sports, still the second-leading rusher by a quarterback in school history. Van Wieren also earned all-state baseball honors as a senior, making him one of the rare three-sport all-state athletes in Holland area history.

Xavier Wade

Class of 2018

One of the fastest and most explosive athletes in West Ottawa history, Wade was all-state in multiple sports. He led the football team to the best finish in school history as an all-state wide receiver. He also was all-state in basketball, helping the Panthers reach the state title game, also the school’s best finish. He went on to play football at Ferris State, helping the Bulldogs with the NCAA Division II championship this year.

Contact sports editor Dan D’Addona at Dan.D’Addona@hollandsentinel.com. Follow him on X, formerly known as  Twitter @DanDAddona or Facebook @HollandSentinelSports.   





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Headlined By Anelia Pitts, Flyers Gymnasts Shine At Lucky Stars Invite | News, Sports, Jobs

The Flyers competitive gymnastics team placed fifth at the Lucky Stars Invitational at Jamestown Community College. From left are: Sophie Johnson, Cameron Case, Ava Johnson, Madilyn Walker, Lilli Webster, Olivia Swanson and Kennedy Lynn. Submitted photo Flyers gymnast Anelia Pitts, middle, placed first in the Xcel Diamond all-around with a 36.5 at the Lucky Stars […]

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The Flyers competitive gymnastics team placed fifth at the Lucky Stars Invitational at Jamestown Community College. From left are: Sophie Johnson, Cameron Case, Ava Johnson, Madilyn Walker, Lilli Webster, Olivia Swanson and Kennedy Lynn.
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Flyers gymnast Anelia Pitts, middle, placed first in the Xcel Diamond all-around with a 36.5 at the Lucky Stars Invitational at Jamestown Community College.
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Flyers competitive gymnasts recently competed in the Lucky Stars Invitational at Jamestown Community College.

The Flyers Xcel Platinum team captured a fifth-place team banner. At Xcel Diamond, Anelia Pitts took the top spot on the podium with a 36.5 all-around gold. She also grabbed first in bars (9.15), second on beam (9.225) and first on floor (9.425). Level 3 Anna Thompson took second all-around (36.125). She also claimed second in vault (9.0) and first on beam (9.65). Grabbing third all-around at Xcel Gold was Cassidy Dubois (36.10). She also placed third on beam (9.35).

Capturing top 3 on vault were Xcel Diamond Elayna Pitts, third, 8.85; Xcel Platinum Kennedy Lynn, second, 9.4; Xcel Gold Erinn Sluga third, 9.0; and Level 2 Leilah Walters, third, 9.1. Earning top 3 on bars were Xcel Gold’s Addison O’Connor, third, 8.925 and Gabriella Chapman, second, 9.25; and Level 5 McKenna Hart, second,9.35. Top 3 on beam were Xcel Diamond Elayna Pitts third, 9.05, Xcel Platinum Lilli Webster, second, 9.4, and Xcel Gold Cassidy Dubois, third, 9.35; Level 5 Evelyn Miller, second, 9.225, and Level 4 Sloane Siggins, third, 9.175. Grabbing top 3 on floor were Xcel Gold Erinn Sluga, first, 9.55, and Level 5’s McKenna Hart, third, 9.3, and Evelyn Miller, first, 9.575.

Flyers gymnasts also recently traveled to Philadelphia for the PINK Gymnastics Invitational. Thousands of gymnasts were in attendance and featured a lot of tough competition. As part of their participation, Flyers gymnasts raised funds towards breast cancer awareness.

Kennedy Lynn captured first place all-around with a 37.075 that included first on vault (9.15), first on bars (9.475), second on beam (9.05) and third on floor (9.4). Xcel Diamond Seniors Elayna Pitts and Mia Volpe captured top 3 all-around spots. Pitts was third on vault (8.65), first on beam (9.45), second on floor (9.2), and second all-around (35.6). Volpe was first on vault (8.7), third on beam (8.925) and third all-around (35.075).



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While flashy goal scorers or stout goaltenders often grab most soccer attention, this year Celebration defensive center back Luca DeTorres is the Osceola News-Gazette Boys Soccer Player of the Year. Long the most dominant boys’ soccer program in the county, Celebration had another outstanding 14-4-1 season. DeTorres was the key member of that team that […]

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While flashy goal scorers or stout goaltenders often grab most soccer attention, this year Celebration defensive center back Luca DeTorres is the Osceola News-Gazette Boys Soccer Player of the Year.

Long the most dominant boys’ soccer program in the county, Celebration had another outstanding 14-4-1 season. DeTorres was the key member of that team that surrendered just 20 goals in 19 games and recorded 10 shutouts.

“I thought my season went great,” DeTorres said. “But to tell you the truth, any individual accolades I received would not have been possible without my great teammates and coaches. Celebration soccer is a family and we always push each other to get better and our coaches did a great job of keeping us motivated.”

“I just don’t think there was any question that he was the best player on the field for almost every game,” Storm Athletics Director and assistant coach Chad Boudreaux said. “He was a dominating player for us.”

Sadly for coach, DeTorres will not return for his senior season. He has played the last couple of club seasons for IdeaSport, who became affiliated with MLS Next. That move keeps DeTorres eligible to play college soccer, but essentially ended his high school eligibility.

“That part is really disappointing for me because I love Celebration and its program. Still, I think it is the right decision for me because exposure in MLS Next is an upgrade in competition and gives me more exposure to colleges and professional soccer.”

“He’s certainly ready for that next step,” Boudreaux said. “Luca definitely wants to eventually play college and then professional soccer and this is the best thing for him,” Boudreaux says.

All-County Boys Soccer

Player of the Year: Luca DeTorres, Celebration
Coach of the Year: Sagar Patel, Gateway
All-County Team — Goalie: Mateo Chavel, Sr., Gateway; Defense: Luca Ciccone, Sr., Celebration; Luis Rivero, Sr., Gateway;
Midfielders: Sebastian Guttierez, Sr., Osceola; Samuel Garcia, Sr., St. Cloud; Matt Cardenas, So., Harmony;
Forwards: Luis Angel Moreno, Jr., Gateway; Kitamba Lubulu, Sr., Harmony; Victor Ramos Mora, Sr., Celebration; Chris Blanton, Sr., Osceola
Honorable Mention: Andres Morales Molero, Sr., Celebration; Lorenzo Walls, Jr., Harmony; Josh Diascoaga, Sr., Osceola; Ryan Kermoun, Jr., Poinciana; Juan Page, Freshman, Tohopekaliga; Mathias Jiminez, Sr., St. Cloud

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Century of School Sports: Together, We are the MHSAA

A primary mission of the MHSAA’s 100-year anniversary has been to connect today’s athletes, administrators, coaches, game officials and spectators with their roles in the ever-growing story of school sports in Michigan. Indeed, together, we are the MHSAA. Over the last 10 months and with today’s 44th and final installment, our “Century of School Sports” […]

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A primary mission of the MHSAA’s 100-year anniversary has been to connect today’s athletes, administrators, coaches, game officials and spectators with their roles in the ever-growing story of school sports in Michigan.

Indeed, together, we are the MHSAA.

Over the last 10 months and with today’s 44th and final installment, our “Century of School Sports” series also has sought to tell a deeper and more detailed story of how the MHSAA has arrived at this moment. As our work becomes new with the start of every school year, and with every family experiencing educational athletics for the first time, it’s a story that must always be updated, expanded and retold.

But at the heart of most organizations is a fundamental statement. So to close this celebration, we below break down what is literally the “About” of the MHSAA – as we prepare to build on these values in adding to our story again and again during the century to come.

The MHSAA is a private, not-for-profit corporation …

Although the MHSAA has built a thriving relationship with the Michigan Department of Education over the last many decades – and, in fact, the state superintendent or designee has a non-voting position on the Representative Council – the MHSAA also has maintained its autonomy since its start and even before, as a legislative takeover attempt of the former Michigan Interscholastic Athletic Association led to the MHSAA’s formation in December 1924.

The MHSAA was first incorporated in 1972 and is classified as a 501(c)(3) organization. In the most basic terms, as a non-profit corporation the MHSAA must reinvest all revenue it receives back into its mission of administering school sports. Put another way, whatever money the MHSAA makes must be spent to conduct its tournament events and the several other educational, leadership, etc., programs the MHSAA provides for students, coaches, officials and others who contribute to educational athletics.

… of voluntary membership …

Through their boards of education, member schools voluntarily join the MHSAA each and every year, vowing by formal school board resolution to abide by and enforce the MHSAA’s rules for educational athletics. Membership is optional; schools may conduct a complete program of interscholastic athletics and may participate against MHSAA member schools in regular-season competition without joining the MHSAA. But the great majority of high schools in Michigan approve that membership annually.

… by more than 1,500 public and private senior high schools and junior high/middle schools …

Over the last several years, the MHSAA has counted about 750 high schools and 800 junior high or middle schools, or elementary schools with 6th-grader participation, among its membership. For 2024-25, those totals were 754 high schools, 777 junior high/middle schools and 63 elementary schools with participating sixth graders.

… which exists to develop common rules for athletic eligibility and competition.

This drove the original formation of school sports associations across the nation going back to the late 1800s, including the Michigan State Teachers Association’s first inroad into athletic administration in 1895. The MHSAA Handbook, updated annually with rules and other changes voted upon by the Representative Council, is the rulebook for all MHSAA member schools – public and nonpublic – with rules for general topics like student eligibility but also specific to each sport to regulate scheduling and other intricacies.

No government funds or tax dollars support the MHSAA …

In maintaining that independence noted above, the MHSAA receives no funding from local, state or federal governments. The MHSAA’s income is derived primarily from ticket sales at postseason events, with smaller portions from sponsors and advertising, officials and coaches education registration fees – and again, with all money brought in by the MHSAA going back into those tournament events and programs to support students, athletic directors, coaches and officials.

… which was the first such association nationally to not accept membership dues or tournament entry fees from schools.

These have long been points of pride for the MHSAA; membership remains and has been completely free since the mid-1940s, after the end of World War II, and member schools may enter MHSAA Tournaments for free.

Member schools which enforce these rules are permitted to participate in MHSAA tournaments …

In adopting and upholding MHSAA rules as their own, school districts agree to promote a standard of competitive equity necessary to keep MHSAA Tournament events fair for all involved.

… which attract more than 1.4 million spectators each year.

Over the last 35 years, attendance at MHSAA Tournament events has reached at least 1.1 million spectators annually (not counting the COVID-affected 2019-20 and 2020-21 school years), with a high of 1.68 million during the 2005-06 school year. Attendance during the 2022-23 and 2023-24 school years began climbing again toward 1.5 million spectators, those last two years’ ticket totals ranking among the highest over the last 15.

School sports have a massive footprint in Michigan, which has a population just above 10 million residents. Sure, attendance figures likely count the same spectators several times – the same person might buy tickets for several rounds of several sports over the course of a school year – but a one-to-one comparison using athlete totals also is powerful.

Conservatively, Michigan has at least 160,000 high school athletes. Add in parents of those athletes, grandparents, other relatives with significant interest, and that’s a huge block – let’s say at least 5 percent of the state’s population have some current tie to the athletes playing at the local high school. That’s not even covering athletes at MHSAA junior highs and middle schools, coaches and athletic directors at all levels, and more than 8,000 game officials who make those contests possible. And our groups of athletes are rolling over at least every four years, meaning many tens of thousands more have had at least recent direct contact as participants in our programs.

The MHSAA always has provided opportunities to compete and win championships, but more importantly to learn life lessons gleaned from simply taking part in the process.  

This work is important; its impact is significant. And just as our predecessors surely felt beginning this endeavor 100 years ago, we remain eager and enthused to play our part.

Previous “Century of School Sports” Spotlights

June 25: All-Time ‘Parade of Champions’ – Read
June 17:
Top Performers Tell Us What High School Sports Mean to Them – Read
June 10:
‘The Mitten’ Becomes Sought-After Symbol of MHSAA Greatness – Read
June 3:
MHSAA’s Move to TV, Now Internet, 60 Years Old & Growing – Read
May 27:
Upper Peninsula Helps Make Michigan’s School Sports Story Unique – Read
May 20:
From Nearly A to Z, Schools Repped by 221 Nicknames – Read
May 13:
These Record-Setters were Nearly Impossible to Defeat – Read
May 6:
200+ Representatives Fill All-Time Council Roster – Read
April 29:
MHSAA Programs Prioritize Health & Safety – Read
April 23:
Patches Signify Registered Officials’ Role in MHSAA Story – Read
April 16:
Student Advisory Council Gives Voice to Athletes – Read
April 9:
State’s Storytellers Share Spring Memories – Read
April 2:
Sharp Leadership Synonymous with MHSAA Success – Read
March 25:
Athletic Directors Indispensable to Mission of School Sports – Read
March 18:
2025 Finals Begin Next Half-Century of Girls Hoops Championships – Read
March 11:
Boys Basketball’s Best 1st to Earn MHSAA Finals Titles – Read
March 5:
Everything We Do Begins with Participation – Read
Feb. 25:
Slogans & Logos Remain Unforgettable Parts of MHSAA History – Read
Feb. 19:
MHSAA Tickets Continue to Provide Fan-Friendly Value – Read
Feb. 11:
We Recognize Those Who Make Our Games Go – Read
Feb. 4:
WISL Conference Continues to Inspire Aspiring Leaders – Read
Jan. 28:
Michigan’s National Impact Begins at NFHS’ Start – Read
Jan. 21:
Awards Celebrate Well-Rounded Educational Experience – Read
Jan. 14:
Predecessors Laid Foundation for MHSAA’s Formation – Read
Jan. 9:
MHSAA Blazes Trail Into Cyberspace – Read
Dec. 31: 
State’s Storytellers Share Winter Memories – Read
Dec. 17: 
MHSAA Over Time – Read
Dec. 10:
On This Day, December 13, We Will Celebrate – Read
Dec. 3:
MHSAA Work Guided by Representative Council – Read
Nov. 26: 
Finals Provide Future Pros Early Ford Field Glory – Read
Nov. 19:
Connection at Heart of Coaches Advancement Program – Read
Nov. 12:
Good Sports are Winners Then, Now & Always – Read
Nov. 5:
MHSAA’s Home Sweet Home – Read
Oct. 29:
MHSAA Summits Draw Thousands to Promote Sportsmanship – Read
Oct. 23:
Cross Country Finals Among MHSAA’s Longest Running – Read
Oct. 15:
State’s Storytellers Share Fall Memories – Read
Oct. 8:
Guided by 4 S’s of Educational Athletics – Read
Oct. 1:
Michigan Sends 10 to National Hall of Fame – Read
Sept. 25: MHSAA Record Books Filled with 1000s of Achievements – Read
Sept. 18:
Why Does the MHSAA Have These Rules? – Read
Sept. 10: 
Special Medals, Patches to Commemorate Special Year – Read
Sept. 4:
Fall to Finish with 50th Football Championships – Read
Aug. 28:
Let the Celebration Begin – Read



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USA World Junior Summer Showcase Roster Highlighted By James Hagens

The U.S. will begin its quest for an unprecedented three consecutive gold medals at the World Junior Championship in late July. USA Hockey announced the 42-player roster for its annual World Junior Summer Showcase event, which will help the decision makers evaluate the players in the running to be on Team USA’s roster at the […]

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The U.S. will begin its quest for an unprecedented three consecutive gold medals at the World Junior Championship in late July. USA Hockey announced the 42-player roster for its annual World Junior Summer Showcase event, which will help the decision makers evaluate the players in the running to be on Team USA’s roster at the 2026 World Juniors held in the Twin Cities.

This year’s Summer Showcase, normally held at USA Hockey Arena in Plymouth, Michigan, will be at the University of Minnesota’s Ridder Arena. USA will have their candidates, while teams from Sweden, Finland and Canada will also participate in a round-robin style event.

The Americans will be led by head coach Bob Motzko, who previously led the U.S. to gold and bronze medals as World Junior head coach in 2017 and 2018, respectively.

Here’s a look at who was invited to the camp including nine members of last year’s gold-medal winning roster and nine first-round NHL Draft picks.

Team USA World Junior Summer Showcase Roster

Forwards

  • Kamil Bednarik, Boston University (NYI)
  • Trevor Connelly, Providence (VGK)
  • Cole Eiserman, Boston University (NYI)
  • Kristian Epperson, Saginaw Spirit/Denver (LAK)
  • James Hagens, Boston College (BOS)
  • Will Horcoff, Michigan (PIT)
  • Ben Kevan, Des Moines Buccaneers/Arizona State (NJD)
  • Jacob Kvasnicka, U.S. National Under-18 Team/Penticton Vees (NYI)
  • Ryker Lee, Madison Capitols/Michigan State (NSH)
  • Cole McKinney, U.S. National Under-18 Team/Michigan (SJS)
  • Brendan McMorrow, Waterloo Black Hawks/Denver (LAK)
  • LJ Mooney, U.S. National Under-18 Team/Minnesota (MTL)
  • Will Moore, U.S. National Under-18 Team/Boston College (BOS)
  • Jack Murtagh, U.S. National Under-18 Team/Boston University (PHI)
  • Aidan Park, Green Bay Gamblers/Michigan (EDM)
  • Max Plante, Minnesota Duluth (DET)
  • Cullen Potter, Arizona State (CGY)
  • AJ Spellacy, Windsor Spitfires (CHI)
  • Teddy Stiga, Boston College (NSH)
  • Mac Swanson, North Dakota (PIT)
  • Shane Vansaghi, Michigan State (PHI)
  • Will Zellers, Green Bay Gamblers/North Dakota (BOS)
  • Brodie Ziemer, Minnesota (BUF)

Defensemen

  • Henry Brzustewicz, London Knights (LAK)
  • EJ Emery, North Dakota (NYR)
  • Blake Fiddler, Edmonton Oil Kings (SEA)
  • Elliot Groenewold, Quinnipiac (BOS)
  • Tanner Henricks, Lincoln Stars/St. Cloud State (CBJ)
  • Caeden Herrington, Lincoln Stars/Vermont (LAK)
  • Logan Hensler, Wisconsin (OTT)
  • Cole Hutson, Boston University (WSH)
  • Adam Kleber, Minnesota Duluth (BUF)
  • Sam Laurila, Fargo Force/North Dakota (NYI)
  • Luke Osburn, Youngstown Phantoms/Wisconsin (BUF)
  • Jacob Rombach, Lincoln Stars/Minnesota (NSH)
  • Will Skahan, Boston College (UTA)
  • John Whipple, Minnesota (DET)

Goalies

  • Nick Kempf, Notre Dame (WSH)
  • Kam Hendrickson, Waterloo Black Hawks/UConn 
  • Cale Heil, Madison Capitols/North Dakota (TBL)
  • Jack Parsons, Chicago Steel/Providence
  • Patrick Quinlan, U.S. National Under-18 Team/Sarnia Sting/Notre Dame

Instant Analysis

The U.S. is going to have a harder time to make it three straight gold medals as there will be some roster drop-off from the previous two entries. They will have the benefit of home ice advantage and there will also be a number of returning players to guide the next group forward.

USA is a little shallow on the blue line and woefully shallow in net with no clear-cut No. 1 goalie in the mix just yet after having the World Juniors’ best goaltending tandems in each of the last two trips. The forwards have plenty of offensive firepower, but also have the benfit of balance as there are a number of bigger players that can fit into depth roles.

I would anticipate each of USA’s nine returnees to make the roster if healthy, but beyond that, there are a lot of holes to fill. Top-four defense spots, some top-six options and the starting goaltender position could be battled for all the way through to the December camp just before the tournament begins.

The important steps in finding out who the serious contenders for those spots are will begin now, however.

USA comes into the tournament with plenty of pressure on them to keep the first-ever gold-medal streak going, but they’re definitely going to have to punch above their weight in a tournament field that should include high-end rosters from Canada and Sweden, among other nations. 

The World Junior Summer Showcase is going to provide a great early glimpse of where this U.S. player pool is and where it will need to get to when the puck drops for real on Dec. 26 in St. Paul.

Notable Omissions

There are always going to be a few players who are not invited that are at least notable for one reason or another. 

The only 2025 NHL Draft first-rounder from the U.S. not invited is Chicago Blackhawks pick Mason West. The 6-foot-6 center from Edina High School still has plans to play high school football in the fall, so it really was no surprise to see that he did not make Team USA’s camp roster. It might have been worth bringing him in to see where he’s at relative to the class as a just-in-case, but with him playing football it’s hard to imagine him jumping into a World Junior-caliber tournament with a month’s preparation.

One player I was hoping to see in camp, though not surprised he isn’t is Chase Reid of the Soo Greyhounds. Reid is a late 2007 birth year, who was invited to try out for the U.S. Under-18 Team at last year’s World U18 Championship, but ultimately didn’t make the roster. I think he has a chance at being a very high pick in the 2026 NHL Draft and would be an additional puck-mover that could be worth a longer look. Reid started last season in the NAHL before moving to the O and becoming a point-per-game, minutes-munching defenseman. He is absolutely a player they should keep tabs on.

Lukas Fischer, a St. Louis Blues prospect who was in the Summer Showcase last year and had a good showing, was not invited this time around. I think he may have been edged out by some players that simply had better seasons. Fischer didn’t take a huge step forward with the Sarnia Sting this year, but I figured he’d be in the mix as the U.S. has plenty of question marks on their blue line at this point.

Avalanche prospect Tory Pitner was another player who was in last year’s camp, but not invited this time around. He saw limited action at the University of Denver last season, registering just one assist. 

Where Is The World Junior Summer Showcase?

The World Junior Summer Showcase will be held at Ridder Arena in Minneapolis, Minnesota, on the campus of the University of Minnesota. The event will feature teams from the U.S., Sweden, Finland and Canada.

When Is The World Junior Summer Showcase?

The World Junior Summer Showcase will run from July 25 to August 2. The first games of the WJSS will be held on July 27 with the final games played on Aug. 2.

World Junior Summer Showcase Game Schedule

Sunday, July 27

  • USA White vs. Finland, 1 p.m. CT
  • USA Blue vs. Sweden, 4:30 p.m. CT

Monday, July 28

  • Finland vs. USA Blue, 1 p.m. CT
  • Sweden vs. USA White, 4:30 p.m. CT

Tuesday, July 29

  • Canada Red vs. Canada White, 4:30 p.m. CT

Wednesday, July 30

  • Sweden vs. USA, 1 p.m. CT
  • Canada vs. Finland, 4:30 p.m. CT

Friday, Aug. 1

  • Canada vs. Sweden, 1 p.m. CT
  • Finland vs. USA, 4:30 p.m. CT

Saturday, Aug. 2

  • Sweden vs. Finland, 1 p.m. CT
  • USA vs. Canada, 4:30 p.m. CT

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