Gatorade Unveils 2024–25 Best Players of the Year at Star-Studded ESPYs LA

The nation’s top high school athletes were honored live in Los Angeles on one of sports’ biggest nights.

Best Male and Female Players Receive Top Honor

Cameron Boozer and Jane Hedengren have been named the 2024–25 Gatorade Best Male and Best Female Players of the Year, receiving the highest honor in high school sports. The awards were presented on stage at the ESPY Awards by former Gatorade winners, Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone and Matthew Stafford.

This achievement places Boozer and Hedengren among celebrated alumni, including Jayson Tatum, Candace Parker, Ava Brown, and Cooper Flagg.

Gatorade Player of the Year recognizes exceptional athletes who are paving the way for the future of sport, said Anuj Bhasin, Chief Brand Officer at Gatorade.
We're proud to celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of this year's group, and their bright paths ahead through a one-of-a-kind experience. For decades, these standout individuals have achieved greatness both in their sport and in their communities. We're excited to see how Cameron and Jane carry the legacy forward  said Anuj Bhasin, Chief Brand Officer at Gatorade

Cameron Boozer’s Standout Season and Leadership

Boozer, representing Christopher Columbus High School in Florida, is known for his performance, leadership, and community involvement. Set to attend Duke, he led the Explorers to a 30-3 record and a fourth consecutive state title, averaging more than 22 points and 11 rebounds per game.

Highlights:

• Naismith Trophy Award semifinalist

• Team USA’s Nike Hoop Summit member

• No. 2 national recruit (247Sports, Rivals, On3)

• Volunteered as a youth leader and tutor

• Maintains a 4.82 weighted GPA

Jane Hedengren’s Historic Distance Double

Jane Hedengren from Timpview High School in Utah made history as just the third female athlete to earn Gatorade National Player of the Year honors in both cross country and track and field. She set multiple national records this season, won at Nike Cross Nationals, and contributed to her school’s state titles. In the fall, she will compete for BYU.

Track & Field and Cross Country accomplishments:

• Set national high school records in the mile, 2-mile, 3,000m, and 5,000m

• Nike Cross Nationals Champion

• Three-time state champion, double state winner in the 1600m and 3200m

• Volunteer coach for Road Runner Junior Club and active in community service

• Maintains a 3.79 weighted GPA

Celebrating Player Experience and Gatorade’s Legacy

The awards capped a week-long celebration of athletes in Los Angeles, featuring community service, education, and training with professionals such as Karl-Anthony Towns, Lisa Leslie, Abby Wambach, April Ross, and Puka Nacua. Athletes participated in science-focused field sessions guided by the Gatorade Sports Science Institute.

Gatorade, with six decades of sports nutrition experience, supports athletes at every stage, offering resources from Propel, Muscle Milk, and more.

For a complete list of past Gatorade winners or to nominate an athlete, visit playeroftheyear.gatorade.com.
More information about Gatorade's offerings is available at www.gatorade.com.