Thursday, January 31, 2019

GUIDE TO SMALL COLLEGE PLAYERS/RECRUITS (Division II Prospects Included)

(Division II Prospects Included)

“Our listing of the top 15-20 have a legitimate opportunity of landing some Division II interest.”

  NAME / HT / POS / HIGH-SCHOOL
  • Leondre Townsen 6-4 WF Chicago Corliss – “Athletic scorer, top non-D1 recruit. Awfully talented, heavily sought after.”
  • Jack McDonald 5-11 PG Geneva – “Top 5 D2 recruit in the area.”
  • Dylan West 6-7 PF Hillcrest – “Could land a Div. 1 setting, a rising player.”
  • Dhason Dyson 5-11 G Chicago Corliss – “High scoring performer, top 5 small college recruit.”
  • Anthony Roberts 6-5 F Oak Park – “A fine player, blossoming prospect allegedly gave a verbal to St. Cloud State.”
  • Jordan Booker 5-9 PG Chicago Bogan – “Terrific lil’ athletic play-maker, Div 2 recruit.”
  • Joseph Doyle 6-9 C Chicago Corliss – “Promising, big man, will emerge in the near future as a bonafide contributor.”
  • Zach Toussaint 5-11 PG Johnsburg – “Superb ball-handler & shooter, knows how to play.”
    Matas Masys 6-2 G Willowbrook – “stellar floor game, fun to watch.”
  • Mitch Mascari 6-5 WG Geneva – “One of the best shooters in the state. D1s are sniffing around. System guy.”
  • Kevin Vance 6-6 F Bloom – “D2 recruit, starting to come into his own as a player.”
  • Josh Redric 6-3 WG Mount Carmel – “Excellent length, can shoot on the perimeter. The tag on him, often doesn’t play hard, disappears.”
  • Deng Reng 6-7 F Wheaton North – “Div. 2 recruit, has a tendency to try to do too much but has some abilities that could impact a game.”
  • Demari Grant 6-0 PG Oswego East – “Athletic lead guard with dynamite potential, his game is starting to blossom.”
  • Cody Mitchell 6-7 PF St. Charles East – “Div. 2 has started to zero-in on this rapidly improving front court prospect.”
  • Jaheim Holden 5-8 PG Evanston – “Nifty left-handler has big game experience.”
  • Alex Raiford 6-4 WG DeLa Salle – “Smooth wing player with a bright future. His best hoops await.”
  • Tahir Thompson 6-2 F Lincoln Park – “A tough & rugged performer whose outside game will flourish on the next level.”
  • Khaleb Rouse 6-0 PG Chicago Prosser – “Good defender & floor game.”
  • Jason Mason 6-5 WF Providence St. Mel – “All-around floor game has improved, should be a coveted prospect.”
  • Jules Williamson 6-4 G East Aurora – “Averaging close to 28 per outing but the jury is still out in full force.”
  • Elijah Stewart 5-10 G T.F. South – “Lefty loaded with confidence & game.”
  • Chase Robinson 6-2 PG Oak Park – “Good strong player in the process of working out the kinks out of his play.”
  • Chance Love 6-4 G/F Rich Central – “Late bloomer, Bob Love son, can’t give up on his abilities.”
  • Sam Silverstein 6-6 G New Trier – “Good athlete, system guy, knows how to play.”
  • Solomon Oraegbu 6-2 G Fenwick – “Has some abilities, needs to learn how to play in high pressure settings.”
  • Nathan Draper 6-2 G/F Huntley – “Sleeper, good shooter.”
  • Tyriel Nelson 6-2 G Providence St. Mel – “Athletic scorer-needs polish.”
  • Malik Smith 6-4 G Alton – “Enjoying a fine season-versatile.”
  • Vincent Miszkiewicz 6-7 F/C South Elgin – “Small College gem, opened some eyes over Xmas break.”
  • Clyde Benton 6-5 WF DeLa Salle – “Has a world of talent but hasn’t quite put it together yet. Possible D2 recruit.”
  • Artese Stapleton 6-1 PG Kenwood – “Good small College prospect.”
  • Andrew Stewart 5-11 PG T.F. South – “A gamer who knows how to play.”
  • Will Engels 6-5 F Benet Academy – “System guy.”
  • Damari Nixon 6-2 G Chicago Curie – “Scoring capabilities.”
  • Johnny Roeser 6-5 F Carmel – “Reliable outside threat!”
  • Deion Jackson 6-3 G/F Providence St. Mel – “Good athlete-best hoops await!”
  • Ryan Trotter 6-2 G Walter Payton – “System type-high academic recruit.”
  • Mike Robinson 6-4 WG Lincoln Park – “Respected perimeter threat.”
  • Nate Ortiz 6-3 G/F St. Charles East – “Has performed well all season.”
  • Dionlashon Washington 6-4 G/F Rich Central – “Promising prospect – raw now.”
  • Ryland Holt 6-5 WF Gibson City – “Solid Div.2 prospect.”
  • Landon Wolfe 6-5 F Effingham – “Got some game and has some interest.”
  • Maliq Anderson 6-4 G St. Joseph – “Small College gem.”
  • Yamani Shareef 6-2 G Plainfield East – “Very good perimeter shooter.”
  • Josh Hardy 6-3 G East Aurora – “All purpose performer, small College gem.”
  • Jacquan Binion 5-8 PG Kankakee – “Exciting lefty has established himself playing a winning brand of hoops.”
  • Darion Binion 6-0 G Kankakee – “A hard nose player who is vastly improved.”
  • Justin Eagins 6-2 G Downers Grove South – “This lefty is a respected outside shooter.”
  • Wesley Hooker 6-1 G Downers Grove South – “Undervalued talent, has capability of being a good College player.”
  • Carter Thurman 6-5 F Plainfield North – “Saw again in Pontiac last month, good small College prospect.”
  • Chris White 6-7 F Marian Catholic – “Borderline D1/good Div.2 recruit. Has excellent length, one of the top 5 small College prospects.”
  • Teon Nesbit 6-2 G Butler Charter – “Good shooter, having a quiet season.”
  • Martin Macenis 6-4 G/F Stagg – “Good all-around player, skilled, one of the top players in the South Suburbs.”
  • Trey Tucker 5-9 G Harlem – “Having a big season in the Northern part of our State, plays with a lot of flair.”
  • Jeremiah Tarver 6-5 F Thornwood – “Big body frame, effective on the perimeter, does play football.”

Monday, January 28, 2019

GUIDE TO SMALL COLLEGE PLAYERS/RECRUITS

(Division II Prospects Included)
“Our listing of the top 15-20 have a legitimate opportunity of landing some Division II interest.”

NAME / HT / POS / HIGH-SCHOOL

Leondre Townsen 6-4 WF Chicago Corliss – “Athletic scorer, top non-D1 recruit. Awfully talented, heavily sought after.”

Jack McDonald 5-11 PG Geneva – “Top 5 D2 recruit in the area.”

Dylan West 6-7 PF Hillcrest – “Could land a Div. 1 setting, a rising player.”

Dhason Dyson 5-11 G Chicago Corliss – “High scoring performer, top 5 small college recruit.”

Anthony Roberts 6-5 F Oak Park – “A fine player, blossoming prospect allegedly gave a verbal to St. Cloud State.”

Jordan Booker 5-9 PG Chicago Bogan – “Terrific lil’ athletic play-maker, Div 2 recruit.”

Joseph Doyle 6-9 C Chicago Corliss – “Promising, big man, will emerge in the near future as a bonafide contributor.”

Zach Toussaint 5-11 PG Johnsburg – “Superb ball-handler & shooter, knows how to play.”

Matas Masys 6-2 G Willowbrook – “stellar floor game, fun to watch.”

Mitch Mascari 6-5 WG Geneva – “One of the best shooters in the state. D1s are sniffing around. System guy.”

Kevin Vance 6-6 F Bloom – “D2 recruit, starting to come into his own as a player.”

Josh Redric 6-3 WG Mount Carmel – “Excellent length, can shoot on the perimeter. The tag on him, often doesn’t play hard, disappears.”

Deng Reng 6-7 F Wheaton North – “Div. 2 recruit, has a tendency to try to do too much but has some abilities that could impact a game.”

Demari Grant 6-0 PG Oswego East – “Athletic lead guard with dynamite potential, his game is starting to blossom.”

Cody Mitchell 6-7 PF St. Charles East – “Div. 2 has started to zero-in on this rapidly improving front court prospect.”

Jaheim Holden 5-8 PG Evanston – “Nifty left-handler has big game experience.”

Alex Raiford 6-4 WG DeLa Salle – “Smooth wing player with a bright future. His best hoops await.”

Tahir Thompson 6-2 F Lincoln Park – “A tough & rugged performer whose outside game will flourish on the next level.”

Khaleb Rouse 6-0 PG Chicago Prosser – “Good defender & floor game.”

Jason Mason 6-5 WF Providence St. Mel – “All-around floor game has improved, should be a coveted prospect.”

Jules Williamson 6-4 G East Aurora – “Averaging close to 28 per outing but the jury is still out in full force.”

Elijah Stewart 5-10 G T.F. South – “Lefty loaded with confidence & game.”

Chase Robinson 6-2 PG Oak Park – “Good strong player in the process of working out the kinks out of his play.”

Chance Love 6-4 G/F Rich Central – “Late bloomer, Bob Love son, can’t give up on his abilities.”

Sam Silverstein 6-6 G New Trier – “Good athlete, system guy, knows how to play.”

Solomon Oraegbu 6-2 G Fenwick – “Has some abilities, needs to learn how to play in high pressure settings.”

Nathan Draper 6-2 G/F Huntley – “Sleeper, good shooter.”

Tyriel Nelson 6-2 G Providence St. Mel – “Athletic scorer-needs polish.”

Malik Smith 6-4 G Alton – “Enjoying a fine season-versatile.”

Vincent Miszkiewicz 6-7 F/C South Elgin – “Small College gem, opened some eyes over Xmas break.”

Clyde Benton 6-5 WF DeLa Salle – “Has a world of talent but hasn’t quite put it together yet. Possible D2 recruit.”

Artese Stapleton 6-1 PG Kenwood – “Good small College prospect.”

Andrew Stewart 5-11 PG T.F. South – “A gamer who knows how to play.”

RISING 2020 PROSPECTS

“Recognizing several players who have their game/play on up-swing pace. As we vault into an important month of hoops & with spring around the corner, I can’t think of a better time for players to express themselves.”

NAME / HT / POS / HIGH-SCHOOL

Trey Davis 6-0 PG St. Laurence – “A clutch performer, lefty gamer who can score; was huge versus Leo H.S.”

Atharva Atreya 6-3 G Carl Sandburg – “Highly skilled performer-vastly under-rated. Patriot & Ivy League Schools should pursuit him heavily.”

Micah Snyder 6-4 PG Lincoln Way West – “Has a string of terrific outings under his belt of late. Patriot League recruit.”

Chris Williams 6-2 G Peoria High – “A silk-smooth scorer averaging close to 17 per outing.”

Javantae Breckens 6-3 F North Lawndale – “Promising prospect, really good athlete. Now needs to learn the game and polish skills.”

Devon Davis 6-0 G Westinghouse – “Gifted athlete, still learning how to play. Can score on the perimeter.”

Deandre Hagan 6-3 G/F Brother Rice – “Lefty gives you blemishes of his potential like the outing against Marist.”

Kendale Anderson 6-6 PF Leo High School – “A powerful rebounder, a foreseeable Div. 1 mid-major recruit if he has grades.”

Everett Stubblefield 5-10 PG Willowbrook – “Slick/exciting general, potential Div.1 recruit.”

Paul Zilinskas 6-4 F Richards – “Euro-clone, nice all-around skills, huge off-season awaits.”

Marcus Skeete 6-5 F Waubonsie Valley – “Strong gritty performer avg close to 16 per outing.”

Jabari Chiphe 6-4 F Walter Payton – “Starting to blossom into a reliable scorer. This spring will share the tale of the tape on him.”

Jayson Kent 6-4 PG Oak Forest – “Big guard who sees the floor & ability to create for himself and others. Possible Valley, OVC, MAC, & Patriot League recruit.”

Ryan Sroka 6-4 WG Huntley – “Dead-eye shooter with size.”

Grant Hall 6-3 G/F Thornridge – “Superb athlete with an emerging game. A player to watch.”

TOP JUNIOR COLLEGE PROSPECTS

“Some these dudes after they complete their academic requirements could potentially land in a mid-major setting or possibly above.”

NAME / HT / POS / HIGH-SCHOOL
  • Cortez Mosley 6-4 WG Peoria Richwoods – “A budding stand-out plays hard and with a purpose, he can score.”
  • Donovan Clay 6-6 WF Alton – “Versatile wing, does a little of everything well. No. 2 coveted recruit.”
  • Dachaun Anderson 6-7 PF Chicago Leo – “A physical specimen, offensive game starting to emerge.”
  • Lamarius Lillard 6-7 PF Momence – “Plays in obscurity but possesses a wealth of potential & very good rebounder.”
  • Chris Burnell 6-2 G Rockford East – “Catalyst for his up-surging team can create for mates & defend.”
  • Aaron Strong 6-1 G Chicago Farragut – “A high-scoring offensive minded performer.”
  • Dashon Enoch 6-1 G Oak Park – “Starting to round into the player we once thought he could become. An all-around performer.”
  • Isaac Stanback 6-4 F Homewood-Flossmoor – “A grinder with some tools that need polish, has a tendency right now not to always be engaged.”
  • Latik Murphy 6-2 G Morton – “Dynamite in transition & a capable scorer.”
  • Demetrius Douglass 5-11 G North Lawndale – “A hooper, fearless scoring guard, could develop into a defensive stopper.”
  • Eddie Boston 6-1 PG Downers Grove North – “Has some talent, lacks understanding of game situations. Polish needed.”
  • Semaj’ Henderson 6-0 G Downers Grove North – “Has moments where you see his potential, sometimes reckless, needs polish.”

STATE’S TOP UN-SIGNED SENIORS

“As we head into the month of February, these are the players at the top of the list in terms of availability. Many who could blossom as fine collegiate players.”

NAME HT POS LEVEL HIGH-SCHOOL
  • Deonte Billups 6-3 WG MM Moline
  • Kendrick Tchoua 6-6 PF MM Benet Academy
  • Myles Baker 6-3 G MM Whitney Young
  • Tujautae Williams 6-6 G MM Chicago Orr
  • Rashaun Agee 6-8 PF MM Chicago Bogan
  • Antonio Reeves 6-4 G MM Chicago Simeon
  • Greg Outlaw 6-5 G/F MM Chicago Bogan
  • Bryant Brown 6-4 G/F MM Waukegan
  • Caleb Donaldson 6-5 G MM-LM+ Bloomington
  • Jeremiah Oden 6-7 G/F LM+-LM St. Rita

TOP PERFORMERS FROM THE FOUR GAME SET

Matt Stuursma 6-0 G SR Chicago Christian
The 3-sport stand-out was superb in the opening ball-game versus Reavis where he tallied 13 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, & 3 steals. Also named player of the game.

Quarnell Johnson 6-5 PF SR Rich Central
Small College gem, a banger who’s tough around the rim finishing plays. Recorded 13 points & 8 rebounds in a victory over Peoria High. Top player honors of the second game.

Dionysius Hogan 6-4 WF SO Peoria High
Impressive looking youngster has nice size & a terrific floor game. He scored 16 points & finished with 7 rebounds & 4 assists.

Chris Williams 6-2 G JR Peoria High
Played well despite of being on the losing end. Scored a game high 17 versus Rich Central. A rising 2020 prospect.

Lerone Allen 6-0 G FR Peoria High
Mature for first year cager, has some abilities to create for others. A player to watch. Had 10 points, 4 rebounds in a strong showing.

Tahir Thompson 6-2 F SR Lincoln Park
Played strong/tough and with poise. Grabbed player of the game honors with team leading 23 markers to go with 11 rebounds. A highly regarded small college recruit.

Mike Robinson 6-4 WG SR Lincoln Park
Dead-eye shooter nailed four 3-pointers on his way to 16 points.

Julio Montes 5-9 PG SO Lincoln Park
Sparkled in his ever-growing floor play. Tallied 12 points in a victory over favorite Bloomington. Top 20-25 sophomore in Illinois.

Caleb Donaldson 6-5 G SR Bloomington
One of the State’s top un-signed seniors went for 16 points. We didn’t see any of his high-wire acts this contest. Good lookin’ prospect.

Chris Payton 6-8 PF SR Bloomington
His anticipated arrival to the area wasn’t the kind of performance many of us observers had yearned for from the SIU recruit who finished with 13 points, 8 boards, & 3 blocks.

Cortez Mosley 6-4 G/F SR Peoria Richwoods
Swingman type is a budding star. Played hard & with chip. Had a game high 25 markers in a win over Carl Sandburg. Top Juco prospect/recruit in the State. Player of the game honors.

Jamauri Winfrey 6-3 F FR Peoria Richwoods
This smooth youngster had a stellar showing with 10 points but was splendid showcasing his other abilities/skills. Top 5 in the 2022 Class.

Atharva Atreya 6-3 G JR Carl Sandburg
A promising prospect who will go into the spring as an unheralded target. Some academic Division One’s should take notice of this highly skilled performer. He racked-up 19 points & 6 assists.

Kevin Agwomoh 6-2 G/F SR Carl Sandburg
Strong body bruiser managed 13 points in a loss to Richwoods. Had moments during the ball game where he stood out.

MLK

One has to admire, and many do from afar, the job DePaul’s Dave Leitao has done orchestrating a revived culture & a new-found respectability back into the Blue Demon Program. Their recent upsurge has garned warm praises amongst his rival peers, as well as some of our more distinguished locals (LOL) who have now jumped on the wagon mid-stream. The administration at DePaul must be applauded for the love & faith with an unyielding belief that Leitao was to remain their man, designated to restore a winning brand back into the once proud program while mentoring & developing fine young men. Leitao, entering year four has maintained his un-flappable faith/vision, and has never blinked or wavered despite of couple debatable seasons. The coaching staff has played a huge role in the maturation process of sophomore forward Paul Reed, a budding stand-out from Orlando, Florida. Reed continues to be another bright story line to DePaul’s current upswing. Long-time Demon fans have started to compare the youngster to former DePaul’s NBA players Dallas Comegys and David Booth.

“It’s nice to recognize your neighbors…”

The Inaugural MLK Holiday Classic held Monday, January 21st at Chicago Christian High School will always be a reflective memory on a very special day, honoring one of our nation’s leaders who was sadly slain in 1968, a day that brought many of us Americans to an immediate halt in front of our family television sets. While honoring Dr. King, we will share some bright hoop moments from this Inaugural Event that we will continue to bolster & build for years to come.

Tuesday, January 15, 2019

1ST ANNUAL MLK HOLIDAY CLASSIC

ILLINOIS SPOT-LITE PRESENTS 
1ST ANNUAL MLK HOLIDAY CLASSIC

MONDAY, January 21st, 2019
(DOORS OPEN AT 11:00AM)
General Admission: $10/person

SITE: CHICAGO CHRISTIAN HIGH SCHOOL
12001 S. Oak Park Ave
Palos Heights, IL 

GAME SCHEDULE
NOON - Chicago Christian vs. Reavis
1:30pm - Peoria High vs. Rich Central
3:00pm - Bloomington vs. Lincoln Park
4:30pm - Peoria Richwoods vs. Sandburg


Press Notes
As we gear-up for our MLK event, we will provide game notes as well as identify key players to watch. We are extremely excited about the future of this event and our vision is to revitalize it each season, to where the Classic is recognized as one of the premier MLK events in the Midwest. We appreciate everyone’s support.

Game FactsSeveral participating teams enter with quality wins and pretty good record thus far. Bloomington holds a 13-5 record and is rated 5th in our state rankings. The Raiders are coming off a strong showing at the prestigious Highland Shootout with a convincing 76-63 victory over a good East St. Louis squad. They will take on Lincoln Park at the MLK Classic, who currently owns a 12-6 mark. Both teams will match-up as our main attraction. Bloomington’s leading scorer is 6-foot 8 SIU recruit Chris Payton, who averages 22.8 and 8.9 rebounds. 6-4 guard Caleb Donaldson is one of the state’s top unsigned seniors, he averages 13.8 a game and brings high-wire ability. The Lions from Lincoln Park counters with senior forward Tahir Thompson, who averages 10 points a game but has been on a roll of late averaging 15.7 his last four games. They also suit-up unsung seniors Tavis Stampley a rising prospect and outside shooting threat Mike Robinson. Lincoln Park also has two promising sophomores.
Peoria Richwoods currently has a 12-5 mark. They grabbed a huge victory last week against Bloomington at home. They will go head up against Carl Sandburg (10-8), a squad who’s been playing extremely well of late after a slow start. The Eagles won the consolation Tournament at York over the Holiday break, finishing 4-1. They’ve won 6 out of 8 including a tough loss against state ranked Bolingbrook last week. Marvin and Kevin Agwomoh lead them in scoring with 12 points per game. While exciting six-foot three junior guard Atharva Atreya averages 10 per outing. Atreya had a really nice game versus Bolingbrook. Richwoods has played well of late except for dropping a game last week against city rival Peoria High. They are led by one of the state’s top un-signed seniors Cortez Mosley who averages 19 points a game, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists. Their second leading scorer, Jaydion Davis who chips in with 11 points and 6 rebounds. The Knights have shown promise in their team-oriented system and they have several good young players that play significant minutes. Their top player, Mosley is a transfer from Peoria High. 

Our opening game will feature host team Chicago Christian who has an impressive 15-5 record and winners of 8 consecutive games. The Knights have really shined recently playing well together. They are led by three sport senior stud, Matt Stuursma, who averages 15 points per game, and junior forward Brian Anderson, who records 15.5 markers a game and 10 rebounds. Reavis will be the Knight’s opponent, they presently own a 6-9 record and have fought hard in some close games. The Rams all-purpose performer is senior Sami Hajjar. Our 1:30pm game will feature Peoria High versus Rich Central. Two programs still trying to capture some identity before looming into the month of February. Peoria Lions is coached by legendary native Dan Ruffin. They currently hold a 6-13 mark and winners of their last several games. Chris Williams, a 6-foot junior, has been a bright spot averaging 17.2 points per game. Rich Central off to a disappointing start after lofty early season expectations. Their unforeseen start was due to eligibility issues with several key players. They’ve played a tough schedule at this point in the season losing to ranked teams Bloom, Marian Catholic, and Homewood-Flossmoor. The Olympian’s top player is 6-5 senior, Chance Love, who is still available and averages close to 12 a game and is paired with fellow senior Bryonte Washington, who registers 12.3 a night. We look for both of these teams to turn their season around soon.

Tuesday, January 8, 2019

FRESHMEN WHO HAVE IMPRESSED IN RECENT WEEKS

• Jacob Gaither 6-2 G Dixon-“Impressive at Jacobs Holiday”

• Jaden Schutt 6-5 WG Yorksville-“Getting huge praise”

• Kanye Smith 6-5 WF Young-“Torn-up the Sophomore Holiday Event”

• Kameron Kraft 6-4 WG Buffalo Grove-“Dynamite shooter”

• Mikqwon Jones 6-3 G Farragut-“Played well at the dipper”

• Tray Pettigrew 6-0 PG Fenwick-“Looked good at Proviso”

• Robby Avila 6-7 F Oak-Forest-“Been impressive early on”

2021 PROSPECTS ON THE RISE

• Nathanael Hoskins 6-3 G Danville-“looked good at Pontiac”

• Tyler Johnson 5-10 PG DePaul Prep-“his game is evolving”

• Darius Wilson 6-2 G St. Laurence-“been on a tear in Dec”

• Josh Ausler 6-0 PG Rockford Auburn-“played well at Hinsdale”

• Julius Rollins 6-5 WF Hillcrest-“Long armed shooter”

• Julian Campbell 6-6 PF Palatine-“big fella coming ‘along’”

TOP 4 2021 PROSPECTS WHO HAVE IMPRESSED

NAME HT POS LEVEL HIGH-SCHOOL

• Max Christie 6-5 PG HM Rolling Meadows-“Smooth game”

• Bryce Hopkins 6-7 G/F HM Fenwick-“Averaged a cool 29 at Proviso”

• Ahmad Bynum 6-2 G HM Simeon-“Been out with injury”

• Chris Hodges 6-7 PF ---- Schamburg-“38 in one outing over at York”

RISING 2020 PROSPECTS

“These guys are starting to turn the corner to where we can witness growth. We will continue taking a closer look at this group.”

• Elijah Jones 6-6 G/F Marian Catholic
“Smooth floor game-would like to see him stay engaged more.”

• Carlos Keen 5-11 PG Sparta
“A fine player-basking in Southern Illinois, will see him soon.”

• Nate Shockey 6-1 PG York
“Led his team to title at York despite of being injured.”

• Grant Hall 6-3 G/F Thornridge
“Good athlete, game is starting to un-fold, All-Tourney honors at Prosser.”

• Justin Harmon 6-3 NG Curie
“Athletic & plays extremely hard, displaying winning intangibles.”

• Beau Frericks 6-1 G Cary Grove
“Very good at seizing the moment. All-Tourney at Jacobs.”

• Everette Stubblefield 5-10 PG Willowbrook
“Slippery lefty looks like a potential D1 recruit.”

• Dom Martinelli 6-3 G Glenbrook South
“Scoring & winning; enjoying a fine season. Led the Wheeling Tournament in scoring.”

• Marcus Skeet 6-5 G/F Waubonsie
“All Tourney at Jacobs; burly scorer is skilled, smart, & versatile.”

• Christian Shumate 6-4 G Plainfield East
“Created a buzz over the break shattering a backboard at Pekin.”

• Joe Green 6-0 G Marian Catholic
“Smooth player, can score All-Tournament at Hinsdale.”

• Jayson Kent 6-3 PG Oak Forest
“All-Tourney at Maine East, a sleeper prospect.”

ILLINOIS TOP 5 2020 PROSPECTS

“We might have a little more shape to the class than most perceive. My guys below have performed well thus far as anticipated.”

• Adam Miller 6-3 G HM Morgan Park

• D.J. Stewart 6-3 G HM Whitney Young

• Martice Mitchell 6-10 F HM Bloom

• Keshawn Williams 6-2 G MM+ Bloom

• Ahron Ullis 6-2 PG MM+-MM Marian Catholic

LIKELY TOP 5 JUNIOR RECRUITS

• Dachaun Anderson 6-7 PF Chicago Leo“Capable of over-powering high-school kids.”

• Latik Murphy 6-2 G Morton“Has shown he can score.”

• Dashon Enoch 6-1 G Oak Park“Needs a year or two of growth & maturity.”

• Isaac Stanback 6-4 F Homewood-Flossmoor“Presently adding more to his power game.”

SPOT-LITER’S 10 UN-SONG AVAILABLE SENIORS TO FOLLOW

“These players are enjoying a fun filled season-demonstrating heady-gritty type performers.”

NAME HT POS SCHOOL
• Matas Masys 6-2 G Willowbrook
“Thinks the game, superb floor game-could play at a D2.”

• Jack McDonald 5-11 PG Geneva
“Tough minded general-a winner, D2 recruit. All-State candidate now.”

• Jason Mason 6-5 F Providence St. Mel
“Going to be a good all-around player at the next level, he shows blemishes of his up-side.”

• Demari Grant 6-0 PG Oswego East
“Athletic promising prospect. Needs a year to blossom into a dynamite College player.”

• Jordan Booker 5-9 PG Chicago Bogan
“Steady play-maker-fine D2 recruit.”

• Malik Smith 6-4 G Alton
“Wiry offensive threat-All-Tourney at Centralia, really good up-side.”

• Vincent Miszkiewicz 6-7 F/C South-Elgin
“Improving big fella, made All-Tournament at Jacob’s Holiday Event. Good small College recruit.”

• Cody Mitchell 6-7 F St. Charles East
“He competes, rising recruit can play at a D2 situation.”

• Zach Toussaint 5-11 PG Johnsburg
“Scoring PG averaged 23 at Jacobs & landed All-Tourney honors. Small College gem.”

• Tommy Halatek 6-8 C Lockport
“Big fella opened some eyes in Pontiac.”

STATE’S TOP UN-SIGNED SENIORS

We actually have some talented prospects still available who possess the abilities to rise in terms of development at the next level. The foreseeable future looks bright for many we will identify.

NAME HT POS LEVEL HIGH-SCHOOL
• Deonte Billups 6-3 WG MM Moline
“Led his squad to the title at Pekin. Averaged 22.5 & 10 rebounds in the 4-game set. Was named Tournament MVP.”

• Kendrick Tchoua 6-6 F MM Benet Academy
“The Maryland’s native had a strong December, he capped it with an impressive showing at the Pontiac Holiday Venue where he was named first team All-Tourney.”

• Myles Baker 6-3 G MM Whitney Young
“All-Tournament selection at Proviso has his game in full-throttle. Out-side shooting has been consistent all season.”

• Tujautae Williams 6-6 G MM Chicago Orr
“Quiet over the Holiday, but most of us recognize what his future could look like on the Hardwood. Needs to improve out-side shooting & he will.”

• Rashaun Agee 6-8 F MM Chicago Bogan
“Averaged 19 points & 17 boards at the Proviso guiding his team to the title. We’ve noticed his mid-range game has not become efficient.”

• Greg Outlaw 6-5 G/F MM-LM+ Chicago Orr
“A legitimate mid-major recruit, needs a year to polish his game; good defender.”

• Caleb Donaldson 6-4 G MM-LM+ Bloomington
“Landed 2nd team All-Tournament honors at Pontiac. Sleeper in the class, this wiry youngster who’s a superb athlete is starting to blossom into a dynamite prospect. Yes, he can shoot!”

• Antonio Reeves 6-4 WG MM-LM+ Chicago Simeon
“First team All-Tourney. He has demonstrated his abilities as a real hooper. Terrific at Pontiac.”

• Bryant Brown 6-4 G/F LM Waukegan
“All-Tournament select at Wheeling, can hoop-playing harder & consistency would attract more fanfare.”

• Jeremiah Oden 6-7 G/F LM St. Rita
“Intriguing swing-man clone. Likely will need another year to add strength & polish his rising game.”

• Dylan West 6-7 PF LM Hillcrest
“Rapidly improving performer, uses both hands well around the rim. Handles himself well in the perimeter.”

• Cortez Mosley 6-4 WG LM Peoria Richwoods
“Silky floor game, stat line often glowing. All-Tournament at Pekin. Averages 19 pts, 6 rebounds, & 3 assists.”

HOLIDAY WRAP-UPS

Pontiac – Curie defeated Bloom in the final 58-44. Kansas State’s recruit Dajuan Gordon captured the MVP Honors. This continues to be our top Holiday Tournament attraction. Caleb Donaldson, a six-foot four wing from Bloomington, had some eye-popping moments/plays, the rising un-signed senior has certainly raised his stock. Simeon’s un-signed senior Antonio Reeves re-affirmed he’s a real hooper with instinctive abilities to excel.

Hinsdale – Marian Catholic knocked off south-suburban neighbor Homewood-Flossmoor in the title game. Marian’s junior guard Ahron Ullis was named MVP. Oswego East’s guard Ray J. Dennis was terrific in several games averaging 24.5 in 4 games. This west-suburban event is becoming a good destination.

• York Jack Tosh – The host team York earned the title with a suspenseful final, surviving Downers Grove South 55-52. York’s junior Nate Shockey toughed it out on bum ankle, tallied 17 pts. Wesley Hooker and Justin Eagin had impressive moments, the senior tandem made All-Tournament. Sophomore sensation Max Christie performed here, drawing a wave of spectators to witness his talented floor game.

Proviso West – Bogan beat Whitney Young in the final. Young’s D.J. Stewart was terrific averaging 24 points in 4 games. Bogan’s Rashaun Agee, registered 19 points & 17 rebounds, was selected All-Tourney. Fenwick’s hot-shot high-scoring sophomore Bryce Hopkins averaged an eye-opening 29 points.

Centralia – Belleville West rallied to bounce rival Alton in the title game 62-57 capturing back to back championships. The State’s No. 1 player E.J. Liddle was named Tournament’s MVP, the Ohio State recruit recorded 77 points, 32 rebounds, & 10 blocks. Senior guard Lawrence Brazil played well. He scored seventy points & was an All-Tourney selection. Alton’s senior pair Donovan Clay and Malik Smith played well & were named All-Tourney picks. The Maroons are now 16-0 after beating a very good St. Louis Vashon’s Team 77-72 at the Highland Shoot-out over the weekend. They look to be path to repeat as 4A State Champs.

Big Dipper – Morgan Park ran past Farragut 82-60. Junior Adam Miller lit up defenders setting a Tournament scoring record with 133 points in 4 games.

Wheeling Hardwood Classic – Geneva beat Fremd, a solid well coached squad in the title game. Geneva off to a 13-0 start and was spearheaded by un-song senior general Jack McDonald. He was named MVP averaging 16 points & 5 assists in 4 games.

Pekin – Moline outlasted United Township in the finale. Six-foot three un-signed senior Deonte Billups played well throughout the Tournament, recording a 22.5, 10 rebounds per outing in 4 games. Billups was selected MVP and is a player to watch this season.

Collinsville – Springfield South-East needed some late game heroics to defeat host Collinsville 65-62 in the final. Junior James Dent drilled a 21 foot 3-pointer with 0.1 seconds remaining. Chicago St. recruit Terrion Murdix garned MVP honors. East St. Louis All-Tournament forward Terrence Hargrove, a St. Louis U. recruit, had a dunk-fest in several outings. The Rockford’s trio of junior Sincere Parker, seniors Chris Purnell and Shaden Clanton, represented themselves well at the event.

DREAMERS

We are extremely excited about the future of this event and our vision is to revitalize it each season, to where the Classic is recognized as one of the premier MLK events in the Midwest.

1ST ANNUAL MLK HOLIDAY CLASSIC
Monday, January 21st, 2019
SITE: Chicago Christian High-School

GAME SCHEDULE
Noon – Chicago Christian vs Reavis
1:30pm – Peoria Central vs Rich-Central
3:00pm – Bloomington vs Lincoln Park
4:30pm – Peoria Richwoods vs Carl Sandburg