On Wednesday, November 12, 2014, La Lu shooting guard and ESPN 4-star recruit Jalen Coleman-Lands officially signed his letter of intent with the University of Illinois. Coleman-Lands, who is ranked second in Indiana and 34th nationally according to ESPN, had this to say about his decision, “The reason I chose the University of Illinois is because they offer everything I was looking for in a school: academics, in particular the business program; the basketball system and level of competition in the Big 10; and the quality of Coach Groce and his staff.”
La Lumiere Head Coach Shane Heirman commented, “Jalen is a coach’s dream. From day one at La Lumiere, he fully immersed himself into this community and has had a major impact on and off the court. He is a special talent, but even more so, he is a special person. I have no doubt that he will have a major impact at the University of Illinois.”
Off the court, Jalen is an excellent student, earning a place on the School’s Cum Laude Honor Roll. He was also the 2014 recipient of the Bransfield Award, the highest award bestowed on an underclassman, recognizing the student who best represents the La Lumiere ideal. Jalen also serves as Vice President of the Entrepreneur Club and is active in the School’s community service program.
La Lumiere Headmaster Michael Kennedy says of Jalen, “Jalen has consistently been a leader in our community and has earned the respect of both his teachers and his peers. La Lumiere has prepared him for success at the collegiate level and in life because he has taken advantage of all we have to offer.”