For Jake Wegner, the bond within the halls of Frontenac High School means everything. “The thing I love most about being at Frontenac is how everyone is very close with each other, and everyone gets along,” he said. That sense of community extends onto the basketball court, where Wegner has found his passion.

Now a leader for the Raiders, Wegner fills a big role. “I’m a senior and I am a center,” he said. While some teammates have been playing the sport since childhood, his journey started a little later. “I started playing basketball in eighth grade.”

Even with a later start, his drive and support system have helped him excel. “I would say my mom inspires me the most because she pushes me to be a better person as well as an athlete.” That inspiration has carried him through years of hard work and steady improvement.

Along the way, certain teammates have stood out in his eyes. “I would say Vinny Collier impresses me the most because he has times when he cannot miss a shot,” Wegner said. He also enjoys following the game at the highest level. “My favorite professional team is the Oklahoma City Thunder.”

As his senior season unfolds, Wegner is proud of how far his skills have come. “I would say I improved most in shooting or playmaking in the offseason,” he said. That improvement gives him confidence in his final year with the Raiders.

Like many athletes, he has a favorite spot to compete and knows which gym is the toughest. “My favorite place to play is at home and the toughest is probably Galena because it feels a lot harder to make shots,” Wegner explained.

Looking ahead, his future goals are clear. “After I graduate, I want to attend college,” he said, ready to take the next step in both academics and life.

And when it comes to his opinion on greatness, Wegner doesn’t hesitate. “LeBron James is the best player of all time.”

For Wegner, basketball has been about growth, community, and inspiration. From late beginnings to senior leadership, he continues to leave his mark on Frontenac basketball.