In Part 2 of the BACKSTORY series, Ellison Jordan reflects on his sophomore year at Gilman School — the season where he transitioned from #71 to #42 and began emerging as one of the top defensive linemen in the region.

From ESPN matchups and national powerhouse opponents to rivalry losses, breakout performances, and earning his first major Division I offer from Michigan State, this episode captures the pressure, growth, and confidence that defined sophomore year.

This is the story of identity, evolution, and becoming the player people finally started noticing.