A true competitor embraces the challenge of tougher competition. USC freshman Jahkeem Stewart had a choice. He could have stayed in high school and likely set records while improving his already highly impressive stock. That is not, however, the path that Stewart chose for himself.
Instead, he reclassified from the class of 2026 to the class of 2025.
While speaking with reporters, as shared by the LA Times' Ryan Kartje on X, Stewart spoke on how he felt that he was ready to take the next jump in his playing career.
Had Stewart remained in high school for an additional year, he would have been able to fully tackle his freshman season in 2026.