Faces of the future: A look at the best returning athletes in Clemson’s class of 2028

Many Clemson students in the class of 2028 spent their first year of college finding a new friend group, learning to live on their own and adjusting to college life. A select few, however, dominated Clemson headlines and became household names for their athletic ability.

A few freshmen stood out among their class and seem to be stars for years ahead.

Ransford Gyan — forward, men’s soccer

Gyan made an immediate impact on the pitch for Clemson United, which, at the time, was the defending national champion. The midfielder, a native of Ghana, started in 19 of 22 games in the fall. Despite his smaller size at 5-foot-4, Gyan scored five goals and had six assists in the 2024 season.

Before coming to Clemson, Gyan was named the 2024 Gatorade National Boys Soccer Player of the Year. After his performance last year, it’s safe to say he’ll likely receive more accolades in the future.

Bryant Wesco Jr. — wide receiver, football

Wesco came out of high school as a highly sought-after recruit: a four-star, according to 247 Sports.

In his first season, Wesco dominated the gridiron and was one of Clemson’s top receiving targets. The freshman, known as a blazing-fast deep threat, took the spot as the Tigers’ second-leading receiver with 708 yards and five touchdowns on 41 grabs.

Wesco will return to an impressive receiver room in 2025 to aid Clemson’s national championship hopes.

T.J. Moore — wide receiver, football

This list wouldn’t be complete without another great pass catcher for Clemson. Along with Wesco, Moore cemented himself as one of the best freshman receivers in the country. In the Tigers’ final game of the year — a playoff loss to the Texas Longhorns — Moore hauled nine catches for 116 yards and a touchdown.

On a national stage, Moore was the game’s leading receiver, showing the potential of the former five-star recruit. In the 2024-25 season, Moore was Clemson’s third-leading receiver with 651 yards and five touchdowns on 45 catches.

The Key West, Florida, native will team back up with Cade Klubnik and company for what the Tigers hope will be a historic season.

Hannah Clark — gymnastics

In the program’s second year, Clark has already become a key piece for Clemson gymnastics. In the 2025 season, Clark performed in 13 meets, in which she competed all 13 times on bars and five times on beam.

As a freshman, she earned Clemson’s only score of 9.9 or higher on bars. Her performance earned her tremendous recognition, as she was named to the ACC Newcomer Watch List, the All-ACC Tournament Team in bars and the NCAA Individual Selection in bars.

Clark will look to be a face of Clemson gymnastics for years to come.