Amare Hereford, a 6-foot-1 guard from Beloit Memorial High School in Wisconsin, is quickly emerging as a prospect that coaches are keeping a close eye on.

The 2026 prospect recently received his first scholarship offer from Western Illinois, marking a significant milestone in his budding basketball career.

“It was a very special moment for me,” Hereford said. “I’m very blessed and appreciative of it. I’m very grateful a Division I coach sees me as a D-I player and thinks of me highly.”

While NCAA rules prevent college coaches from directly contacting 2026 prospects, for now, Hereford remains aware that several programs are communicating with his coaches on his behalf. However, his focus remains on his development and having fun, but he did admit that he is excited for June 15, when college coaches can officially contact 2026 recruits.

“My high school coach has been getting texts and calls from coaches, but he wants me to stay focused on playing ball and having fun,” he explained. “So we haven’t discussed in detail who the actual schools are. But I am definitely excited to see who calls.”

Hereford is coming off a stellar season, averaging 25.1 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.0 assists per game. He shot an impressive 65% from the field and 45% from three-point range. His efforts helped Beloit Memorial win their first WIAA Division 1 regional championship since the 2013-14 season, and helped them to their most wins in a season since 2010-11, according to the Beloit Daily News.

His background screams leader, and that is a significant part of his appeal to college coaches.

“I think coaches like the way I can score at an high level, but I also like to facilitate and get teammates involved,” Hereford said. “[And] being a good leader on the floor at all times. I give 110% on the floor always. Good shot selections, and being a great teammate.”

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