2024 JE75 Alums - Freshman Year Recap

Kyle Butler | Wednesday, March 5th, 2025

The anticipation is building for this year’s Junior Elite 75, taking place on March 21st at Mass Premier in Foxboro. 

Year after year, this event serves as a proving ground for the next generation of New England high school basketball stars. Last year was no exception, as a talented group of eighth graders showcased their promise and potential. 
 

While plenty of last year’s JE75 alumni have had strong starts to their high school careers, here are some of the players making the biggest impact for their respective varsity teams: 

Aidan McGrath (North Quincy HS) 

The 6’7” lefty has been a consistent force, contributing on both ends of the floor. He has established himself as a defensive anchor, excelling in protecting the paint, rebounding, and scoring in a variety of ways. 

BJ Dawan-Abdullah (Brimmer & May) 

After finding his rhythm in the second half of the season, Dawan-Abdullah has emerged as a strong defensive presence at the point guard position. He takes pride in his ability to pressure the ball and is steadily improving as a decision-maker on offense. 

Brayden Buckley (Thayer Academy) 

Long known as a knockdown shooter, Buckley is expanding his game and finding other ways to contribute. As he continues to develop physically, his impact at the varsity level will only grow. 

Dereon Medina (Concord Academy) 

Medina has taken a major leap forward, stepping into a leadership role for Concord Academy. He has been a primary ball-handler, a clutch shot-maker, and a key playmaker throughout the season, helping CA capture the EIL championship. 

Elkin Pena (Central Catholic) 

While Peña showed long-term potential, his ability to contribute immediately has been impressive. He has delivered consistent performances throughout the season, with his biggest moment coming against rival Andover, where he scored 21 points, including the game-winning basket. His team is still alive in the MIAA quarterfinals of the postseason.

Isaiah Ferguson (Academy of Notre Dame) 

Ferguson is a name to watch. As an eighth grader, he gained varsity experience, and now as a freshman, he has already surpassed 700 career points. This season, he set a school record with a 46-point performance. 

Jackson Perri (Roxbury Latin) 

Perri is another plate who gained varsity experience as an eighth grader last year. Perri is a poised point guard who knows how to create for his teammates and get his own shot. He has been instrumental in securing big wins for his team this season. 

Ryan Frigiani (Dover-Sherborn) 

Frigiani has put together a strong freshman campaign, displaying maturity beyond his years. He is an efficient scorer who continues to make big strides and will be an important piece for his team moving forward. 

Wiji Dak (Bedford, NH) 

Dak has adjusted quickly to varsity thanks to his size and power. He’s a versatile player who can defend multiple positions and make an impact in different ways. He made an immediate statement in his first varsity game, posting a double-double with 15 points and 14 rebounds.