Contenders, Sleepers, & Prospects: Central State Eight
We are now in the month of November and that means the season is almost here! With that being said we are looking across the state at various conferences and previewing the teams and players to watch! Today we dive into the Central State Eight!
Pre-Season Player of the Year
Anthony Fairlee (Springfield Southeast)
Fairlee is an explosive athlete on the wing that is a physically imposing presence on the high school level. The way he plays with his high motor on both the boards and slashing to the hoop he can make such a huge impact on a game. Defensively he can lock down the opposing teams top perimeter option as well. Look for a lot of high flying dunks from Fairlee!
Team to Beat
Springfield Southeast finished second in the state last season and we fully expect them to be contention for a 3A state title this year again. Fairlee leads the way with his running mate Terrion Murdix who runs the show and makes everyone better. Their post duo of seniors Michael Tyler and Herb McMath are going to be a force inside.
Sleeper Team
Decatur Eisenhower has some nice young talent in Kari Talifero, Cameron Rowe, and RJ Walker. They impressed us last season at the Decatur Turkey Tournament. Can they make the next jump this year?
Top Prospects to Watch
Kari Talifero (Decatur Eisenhower)
Cameron Rowe (Decatur Eisenhower)
RJ Walker (Decatur Eisenhower)
Nathan Torres (Normal U-High)
Alex Wood (Normal U-High)
Anthony Fairlee (Springfield Southeast)
Terrion Murdix (Springfield Southeast)
Herb McMath (Springfield Southeast)
Michael Tyler (Springfield Southeast)
Karl Wright (Lanphier)
Top Contenders
- Springfield Southeast
- Springfield Lanphier
- Decatur Eisenhower
- Normal U-High
- Chatham Glenwood