Cameron Boozer and Jane Hedengren have been recognized as Gatorade’s National Players of the Year for the 2024-2025 school year, showcasing their exceptional talents in basketball and track and field during the 2025 ESPYS.
Boozer, a 6-foot-9 power forward from Columbus High School in Miami, Florida, is committed to playing basketball at Duke University. He has earned the title of the Best Male Player of the Year after being ranked No. 2 in USA TODAY High School Sports’ top 25 for 2025. Under his leadership, the Explorers achieved the No. 1 position in the USA TODAY Sports boys basketball Super 25 rankings. Beyond his athletic talents, Boozer is also academically inclined, participating in his local orchestra as a cellist and contributing to his community through tutoring in algebra and geometry.
On the girls’ side, Hedengren has made waves as the nation’s top high school long-distance runner and was awarded the Best Female Player of the Year. A standout at Timpview High School in Provo, Utah, she shattered the 3,000-meter national record at the Nike Outdoor Nationals, finishing with an impressive time of 8:40.03, just shy of the world record. Hedengren also set national high school records in the mile, two-mile, and 5,000-meter events, concluding her year with victories in the 1,600 and 3,200-meter state championships. Like Boozer, she is committed to academics and community service, coaching for the Road Runner Junior Club and engaging in various initiatives with her church.
Their recognition at the ESPYS, where they were announced by notable athletes Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and Matthew Stafford, places them among an elite group that includes sports legends such as LeBron James and Candace Parker.
This achievement not only highlights the individual talents of Boozer and Hedengren but also serves as an inspiration for young athletes across the nation to excel not just in sports, but also in their communities and academics. Both athletes exemplify the spirit of dedication, hard work, and service, encouraging a brighter future for aspiring stars in all fields.