The Race for Mr. Basketball: EJ Liddell
In this series we take a look at the potential candidates for Mr. Basketball in the state of Illinois for this upcoming season. Here we profile Belleville West power forward EJ Liddell aka the prohibited favorite to repeat!
Profile:
This versatile big man from Belleville West helped lead his team to a state championship last season while also capturing Mr. Basketball honors. Liddell can change a game in so many ways. Scores inside and out. One of the most dominant low-post scorers in recent memory with his ability to score on the block with excellent footwork. Has really improved his ability to step out and knock down jumpers as well as take his man off the dribble from the high-post. Dominant shot blocker and rebounder that could post a slash line of 25/10/3 this year.
Odds to Win:
5/8 (Same as Warriors to Repeat as Champs)
Why He Can Win:
Liddell is one of the few juniors to ever win this award. With that being said he will be in the forefront of voters minds again heading into and throughout the season. Belleville West will be one of the teams to beat for the 4A state championship this season. He is going to put up stupid numbers all season. Liddell will also play in marquee events like the Highland and O’Fallon Shootouts where he will have primetime stages to make statements.
Obstacles to Win:
I don’t really see much. He is the biggest preseason favorite in a long time. The only thing you could say is he would have to avoid injury and then there is just the factor of will voters want to give him the award again if there is someone even close. This is also known as the LeBron MVP factor.