The Dallas Morning News Unveils Top 10 Area Athletes of the Decade
DALLAS, TX – May 19, 2025 — Celebrating a decade of standout performances and unforgettable moments, The Dallas Morning News has released its list of the top 10 area athletes of the decade. This carefully curated group represents a wide range of sports and schools, showcasing the incredible talent developed across the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex.
These athletes were selected not only for their individual achievements, but also for the impact they made on their communities, schools, and respective sports. From record-breaking performances to championship-winning efforts, each athlete left a lasting legacy during their high school and early collegiate careers.
1. Kyler Murray (Allen High School, Football)
The No. 1 pick in the 2019 NFL Draft and Heisman Trophy winner, Murray led Allen High School to three straight state titles and an unprecedented 43-0 record as a starting quarterback. His dominance redefined Texas high school football excellence.
2. Rylee Holtorf (Southlake Carroll, Soccer)
Holtorf was a generational talent who helped Southlake Carroll to two state championships and later became a standout for the U.S. U-20 national team. Her technical skill and leadership earned her All-American honors.
3. Cade Cunningham (Arlington Bowie, Basketball)
Before becoming the No. 1 pick in the 2021 NBA Draft, Cunningham was a standout in Arlington, earning Gatorade Player of the Year and McDonald’s All-American recognition.
4. Lauren Cox (Flower Mound, Basketball)
A dominant force in girls’ basketball, Cox was a two-time Gatorade Player of the Year in Texas and went on to star at Baylor, helping the Lady Bears win a national championship in 2019.
5. Bijan Robinson (Salpointe Catholic, though he played extensively in Dallas camps, Football)
While not a full-time Dallas-area player, Robinson’s influence in local camps and games was significant. He starred at Texas and is now in the NFL.
6. Hailey Hernandez (Southlake Carroll, Diving)
Hernandez competed in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021 at just 18 and was a four-time state champion diver. Her poise and consistency set her apart on the boards.
7. RJ Hampton (Little Elm, Basketball)
A five-star guard who bypassed college to play professionally in New Zealand before entering the NBA, Hampton was one of the most electrifying guards of the decade.
8. Jett Williams (Rockwall-Heath, Baseball)
Now a top MLB prospect, Williams was a high school phenom with both power and speed, leading Rockwall-Heath to multiple deep playoff runs.
9. Aaliyah Moore (Moore, Basketball)
One of the most dominant post players to come through Texas, Moore was a McDonald’s All-American and starred at the University of Texas.
10. Jack Bech (Highland Park, Football/Track)
A two-sport star, Bech dominated on the gridiron and track, earning state titles and Division I offers in both disciplines.
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