CATS Boston student and center for our Prep basketball team, Leo, has received a scholarship to Stanford University before committing to Arizona State.
Having joined CATS Academy Boston for our Postgraduate Program in September 2024, Leo has gone from strength to strength. A key member of the Prep basketball team, Leo has made a solid impression with his skill and performance, drawing the attention of several National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I teams.
Recognising his potential, Leo received offers from Stanford University, Indiana University, West Virginia University, as well as from programs at Creighton University, Xavier University, The University of Alabama and The University of Central Florida
Despite the plethora of offers, including from Stanford University which is currently ranked fourth in the US college rankings* and sixth in the world university rankings**, Leo has decided to commit instead to Arizona State University (ASU) whose basketball team plays within the NCAA Division I, the highest level of intercollegiate athletics sanctioned by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in the United States, and is currently ranked 61st in the division.
His choice to commit to Arizona State University reflects his ambition to play for a more elite team where he can focus on enhancing his basketball game while playing at a higher level.
When interviewed by On3, a leading media company dedicated to providing coverage of high school and college sports, Leo said: “ASU did a good job recruiting me. I believe their style fits how I play and I can see myself playing when I watch them. I think it’s a really good program and I like the facilities and the campus. I was able to build a really good relationship with the staff in a short amount of time since coming to the States. They have good a plan that fits my game and development.”
What’s more, CATS Boston forward, Jaylen has received an impressive number of NCAA Division I offers too. He joined CATS Boston through our Basketball Program to complete his High School Diploma and has made a lasting impact through his skill on the court.
After careful consideration Jaylen has committed to Providence College, ranked 86th in NCAA Division I. He also received offers from The University of Alabama, Xavier University, University of Kansas, Rutgers University and Virginia Tech.
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Jaylen was named Gatorade Player of the Year 2023-24, an award which celebrates the nation’s top high school athletes for excellence on the court, in the classroom and in the community. By receiving this award, he sits alongside previous winners which includes LeBron James, Karl-Anthony Towns and Jayson Tatum. Jaylen has also been ranked as the nation’s number 68 prospect in the Class of 2025 by On3.com.
Head Basketball Coach for CATS Boston, Cary Herer, commented: “Having two CATS Academy student-athletes attain full scholarships to high-major basketball programs is a huge accomplishment for these students. CATS Academy is proud to help these athletes in their academic and athletic journey.”
“Providence College is getting a highly competitive kid in Jaylen. He has proven to be a winner at all levels. I expect he will do the same in his next challenge”
“Leo is a highly skilled 7’1” player who is only scratching the surface of his talents. I believe his best basketball is ahead of him and I expect a lot of success for him at Arizona State.”
The Basketball Program at CATS Academy Boston is receiving media attention with the Boston Globe recognizing the number of elite players coming out of our program and securing themselves competitive contracts following their High School careers.
Find more information on our Basketball Program or studying at CATS Academy Boston.
*US News Best National University Rankings 2025
**QS World Ranking 2025