As we near the end of the 2025-26 season, it is time to start taking more of a look into the freshman 2029 class. Here are five that are all having standout freshman seasons.

Verton Freeman – 2029 – G – Grayslake Central

Starting in his middle school grassroots days now into his freshman season, Freeman has consistently shown that he is one of the more talented and impactful players in Illinois’ 2029 class. Even as just a freshman, Freeman has a nice combination of a well-rounded game paired with his high energy and aggressive play as well as scoring ability. As well, he has a good strong build as a freshman.

Elijah Harris – 2029 – PF – Milwaukee Reagan

While many freshman big men struggle as they transition to the high school level, that has not been the case for the 6’6” forward. In the season, Harris has been averaging nearly a double-double with 11.4 points and 9.1 rebounds in addition to 2.4 blocks. This includes a dominant game this season where he went for 21 points and 20 rebounds. Even as just a freshman he has shown the ability to take over the interior with his physical tools of being 6’6” with a strong build plus playing with great physicality.

Drew Lenz – 2029 – PG – Winneconne

Lenz has been impressive in his freshman season and has recently taken it up a level. In a recent game, the young guard scored 34 points in a win along with 6 rebounds while shooting a highly efficient 13-18 from the field. For the season, he is averaging 18.5 points, 3.8 rebounds, 5.3 assists, and 2.2 steals per game. There are few freshman guards who match his skills, basketball IQ, point guard tools, and ability to create for himself.

Max McMullen – 2029 – PG – Brookfield East

What McMullen has done on the grassroots level over the past couple of years, now even more impressively he is doing at the high school level in his freshman season. This included scoring 18.8 points per game along with 4.4 rebounds, 4.3 assists and 2.3 steals. Most recently he scored 25 points in a win against one of the most talented teams in Wisconsin in Wauwatosa West. McMullen has continued to prove he is an incredibly elusive playmaking point guard with his great ability to break down defenders, get into the paint, and create for himself and teammates. There are few freshmen in the entire region doing as much as McMullen right now.

Javeon Williams – 2029 – G – Sacred Heart Griffin

After standing out last year on the grassroots scene while playing all the way up at 17U even before reaching high school, Williams has continued that high level of play in his freshman season. The 6’2” guard is currently averaging 8 points and 5 rebounds per game for Sacred Heart Griffin. Williams has continued to show an advanced skill set including a good ability to score it from all three levels while excelling playing on the attack. He is a smart guard who knows how to play and plays beyond his age.