Teams on the Rise for 2020-2021 Part 1
As we start to look ahead to next season we wanted to identify teams that we think are on the rise heading into next year. Everyone knows the CPS powers will be contenders come March like always, but these 25…
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Continue ReadingAs we start to look ahead to next season we wanted to identify teams that we think are on the rise heading into next year. Everyone knows the CPS powers will be contenders come March like always, but these 25 programs from around the state are ones to watch that could be even better than this year. Here are our Teams on the Rise for 2020-2021 Part 1!
Belleville East
The metro east has been very good over the last half decade with at least one team each year really stepping up. We think Belleville East has a chance to be that team next season. They return the majority of their team including their core players. 2022 wing Braxton Stacker could be a breakout candidate with his wiry frame and scoring potential. Rock solid 2021 guard Ethyn Brown will run the show and get others involved. Also watch out for 2023 shooting guard Jordan Pickett who has D1 potential and got key varsity experience as a freshman.
Bolingbrook
Bolingbrook will lose Elon commit Darius Burford Darius Burford 6'2" | SG Bolingbrook | 2020 State #340 Nation IL , but returns pretty much everything else. Their three 2021s Isaiah Stafford, Kai Evans, and Kyonte Thomas bring athleticism, defense, and each score in a different way for Rob Brost’s squad. They have one of the top 2023 prospects in the state with Donaven Younger who will take on a bigger role as a sophomore. Also fellow 2023s Mekhi Cooper and Keon Alexander bring upside for this squad.
Danville
This Danville squad could be as good as the one several years back led by Kendle Moore. They will have an awesome 1-2 punch in Tevin Smith and Nathanael Hoskins. Both 2021s are D1 prospects and two of the premier players in central Illinois. Smith is a powerful and athletic two way wing that can score from multiple levels. Hoskins is a crafty lead guard that makes plays for himself and others.
DePaul Prep
This program has been so good over the last few years reaching state two years ago. The edition for next year has a chance to do the same. Ty Johnson returns as one of the best wing scorers in the Chicago Catholic League. Smooth 2021 wing can get buckets. Inside 2021 center Brian Mathews will bring strength on the glass and a scoring presence in the paint. Also watch out for the emergence of Dylan Arnett.
Glenbard West
This is definitely a team on the rise! They have a super skilled 2022 duo in Caden Pierce and Braden Huff Braden Huff 6'11" | PF Glenbard West | 2022 State #58 Nation IL that will carry this team the next two seasons. Pierce is a plus shooter at 6’5″ that can pass. Huff is so skilled with an inside-outside game along with immense upside! Danny Mulcare Danny Mulcare 6'6" | PF Glenbard West | 2021 State IL will bring a veteran presence for them as a senior!