09/01/2026
Five years ago, I snapped this picture of an incredible group of 8th graders Rockford Elite Basketball and, at the time, 5-0 Basketball (now FVV). Yes, it was incredible coaching many of these talented players and being apart of their development and process.
But talent aside, I knew this group was special.
Some had to battle the weight of expectations that came with their bloodline. Others had health challenges to overcome.
But through it all, these high-character young men persevered and of the 22 in this photo, I can identify and confirm that 18 are entering their freshman year of college this fall.
That's not luck. That's character, family, and years of work most people never saw.
Go and be great, young men. You're representing yourselves, your families, Rockford and you're already making us proud.
Coach Claude Baker
Rockford Elite Basketball
1. Brayden Lewis, Des Moines Area Community College*
2. Amare Hereford, University of Wisconsin Milwaukee*
3. Brody Bruns, Senior at Rochelle High School
4. Cason Newton, University of Wisconsin Eau Claire*
5. Ben Bucher, US Air Force Academy*
6. Caleb Hart, Rock Valley College
7. Alonzo Lattimore, Northern Illinois University
8. Jordan Lopez, Kishwaukee Community College*
9. Branden Chatman, Kirkwood Community College*
10. Mikwan Marshall, Kishwaukee Community College*
11. Champ Parker, Sauk Valley Community College*
12. Brian Harper, Rock Valley College*
13. I need help identifying
14. I need help identifying
15. Amir Danforth, North Dakota State University*
16. I need help identifying
17. Christian Kennedy, Rock Valley College
18. Bane Workman, Benedictine University*
19. Nate Favretto, Pensacola Christian College
20. Royal Whitmore, Rockford University*
21. Parker Krogman, Highland Community College*
22. Caden Considine, University of Illinois*
* - Denotes playing sports in college.
Billy Lewis Seth Newton Joe Danforth Scott Leber - WTVO & FOX 39 Sports Derek Bayne 13 WREX
