From his middle school days on the GNBA to now on the high school level, Cole Kelly has continued to show he is one of the top players in Illinois’ 2028 class, if not the entire Midwest. With this, the 6’6” wing has already received multiple division one offers.
During his freshman season at Neuqua Valley High School, Kelly averaged 19 points, 10 rebounds, 2 steals, and 1 block per game. He was able to score a total of 592 points in his freshman season which is third most for a single season. Even as just a freshman, he was able to earn himself IBCA 4A Special Mention All-State as well as All-Area from the Chicago Sun Times.
“I’m a stretch four player, who can run the point,” Kelly first said when describing his own game. “I can score at all three levels, I play with a chip on my shoulder and play with a lot of energy on defense and offense, I love crashing the boards and getting rebounds and pushing the ball up the floor.” Even as a 6’6” freshman, Kelly has proven that he is one of the most versatile and impactful players in the state.
Even before he entered high school, Kelly was able to pick up a Big Ten offer. Illinois was the first school to offer him coming last summer. Since then, DePaul has also offered him back in October. He is also receiving interest from several other high major programs.
Once again in the spring grassroots season, Kelly will be playing with Breakaway Basketball, up on their 17U team. “I’m looking forward to playing on the Adidas circuit, one of the top circuits in the country. Wanting to help my team win and just working on my ball handling and consistency on my shooting, and overall strength and athleticism.”