By James Williams

Imhotep and MLK Stars Shine in 68th Annual Big 33 Football Classic

Mechanicsburg, PA – On May 25, 2025, the 68th Annual Big 33 Football Classic brought together some of the nation’s top high school football talent at Chapman Field. This year’s game saw standout performances from Philadelphia’s best, as Imhotep Charter’s Jabree Wallace-Coleman and Saimire Locks joined Martin Luther King High School’s Khalid Bueno and Coach Malik Jones in representing Pennsylvania on the big stage.

The Big 33 Classic, often dubbed the “Super Bowl of High School Football,” has long been a proving ground for future college and NFL stars. This year’s contest lived up to the hype—and for the first time in several years, Team Maryland snapped its losing streak, edging out a win in a physical and fast-paced showdown.

Defensive standout Khalid Bueno made his presence felt early, finishing with four tackles and helping to anchor Pennsylvania’s defense. Running back Jabree Wallace-Coleman, known for his power and speed at Imhotep, logged six carries and one reception, showing flashes of the skillset that made him one of the city’s top rushers. On the defensive side, cornerback Saimire Locks contributed with one tackle, showcasing his lockdown coverage and athleticism.

Coach Malik Jones, who was part of the Big 33 coaching staff, reflected on what the moment meant personally and professionally:
“Had a grand opportunity to work the Big 33 Game and to see a young man I spent 4 years molding and developing play in his final high school game. Khalid has been a pleasure to work with over the years, and his growth is incredible, going from the shy kid who was quiet and reserved to watching him find his voice and a sense of self and purpose. I had an amazing time coaching him, and I am sure coaches at Stony Brook will have just as much fun. Two weeks, three All-Star games I was involved with… I am TIRED.”

While the final score favored Maryland, Philadelphia fans had plenty to cheer about. The presence of these talented athletes on the Big 33 roster is a testament to the strength of football programs across the city, especially at Imhotep and MLK.

As these young men move on to the next chapter of their football careers, their performance on one of high school football’s biggest stages affirms what many already knew—Philadelphia football is built different.