Note Worthy

Note Worthy

Northern Illinois can finally see the fruits of their labor the last six months’ pay huge dividends.  Head Coach Mark Montgomery and his staff had a 48 hour window where they secured 3 quality commitments, two hailing from Wisconsin - Homestead’s six foot seven banger Jalen Key, he’s equipped with a true midrange offensive game, and he is an excellent rebounder & defender.  Wisconsin’s Pius XI 6’7” wing Levi Bradley Jr., thin now, but he’s skilled and had a capable scorer and 3 pt. shooter.  Both players suited-up for the surging Wisconsin United club program.  The acquisition of these two shows the Huskies are widely valued outside of our Illinois scope and don’t have to sit around posting-up in the area waiting on key prospects to figure out how much recruiting romance they need before settling on a decision.  Came Monday joining the mix was Rockford Auburn’s lightning quick combo guard Laytwan Porter.  “Remember he had the dubious distinction of basking in the sun all summer in Hawaii with his family (can’t blame him; at least he was safe).  Laytwan figured out quickly his heart and soul remained with the NIU staff.  All 3 kids are academically strong, so look for the Huskies program to continue their rise with a quest for a MAC conference title soon, given the parts they already have in place.  Lincoln’s Gavin Block a sharp shooter may not be far away from a commitment.  Kudos to Montgomery and his hard-working staff.

Jalen Brunson (Stevenson), the state’s No. 1 player made a gusty decision on Monday (Sept. 8) eliminating the likes of Michigan State, Purdue and Temple; paving the way for University Illinois and Villanova to sit tight while he sorts through some thoughts and makes a decision on Wednesday.  “The million dollar question is will the Brunson’s head back east to the Philly area where both parents have roots.”

Mahomet-Seymour’s promising post-player six foot nine Christian Romine gave a verbal to Tim Floyd’s Texas El Paso program.  After a spotty showing in July, Romine is primed to develop into an impact contributor on the next level.  Excellent athlete, decent skills; he just needs polish.