Illinois Top 50 Prospects Regardless of Class: #11-#15
In September we released our rankings for the classes of 2019, 2020, and 2021. What if you took those classes and did an overall ranking regardless of class? This is what they would look like! This is our Illinois Top 50 Prospects Regardless of Class!
Today we unveil prospects #11 – #15!
#11 Anthony Sayles (Niles Notre Dame – 2021)
Last Year’s Rank: NR
Sayles is an explosive two sport athlete that has also shined this fall on the gridiron. On the court during the spring and summer running the show for the Illinois Wolves 15U he was outstanding! Sayles displayed his combination of speed and vision in the transition game. As the spring went along he grew as a guy that can run a team in the half court. Quick burst off the bounce. Really like this young point guard’s upside!
#12 Chris Hodges (Schaumburg – 2021)
Last Year’s Rank: NR
Hodges is the top post prospect in the 2021 at this stage. The Schaumburg big man has quality size, strength, and improving mobility in the post. He can really rebound the ball within his area at a high rate. That is the biggest asset he brings to the table right now. Soft touch and solid footwork in the paint allow him to score on the block.
#13 Isaiah Barnes (OPRF – 2021)
Last Year’s Rank: NR
Barnes is a player that has steadily progressed over the last 12 months to where he is at now. He has grown to 6’6” with long arms. Projectable frame to where he will be able to add on significant strength. Smooth ball handler that can win off the bounce as well as let it fly from deep. Versatile offensive game and is just scratching the surface of his immense potential!
#14 Marquise Kennedy (Brother Rice – 2019)
Last Year’s Rank: NR
Kennedy is the only upperclassmen in this listing of prospects. A year ago he wasn’t even in the conversation for a top 50 spot overall, but after the improvement he had as a player during the spring and summer he EARNED this spot with what he did on the floor. The Loyola commit is a super competitive guard that gets to the rim where he can score or find open teammates for looks. This kid has the “it” factor.
#15 Grant Newell (Whitney Young – 2021)
Last Year’s Rank: NR
Newell is a prospect that progressed from the spring to the summer. At 6’6” with long arms he could still grow more. The sophomore is a great fit for the modern basketball game with his versatility being able to shoot it out to three, post up, as well as defend multiple positions. Ton of upside with this Whitney Young forward!