Teams on the Rise for 2020-2021 Part 5
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 5!
St. Ignatius
This Chicago Catholic League program made moves this past season by winning a regional and defeated DePaul Prep in the sectional semis. They have a quality group of young prospects that are coming up. Their 2022 class is the strength. Miles Casey, AJ Redd, and Kolby Gilles should see bigger roles next year. Big man Jackson Kotecki is an intriguing talent as a rising sophomore. Richard Barron is another 2023 to watch. The young guys will be pushed by senior guard Parker Higginbottom and wing John Digenan.
St. Joseph
The Chargers have had a few down years. Their young core should help them get back to their winning ways. St. Joe’s features the top center in the 2022 class in Kyle Thomas Kyle Thomas 6'8" | C St. Joesph | 2022 State #183 Nation IL . He is a force on both ends of the floor swatting shots and putting up points in the paint. Love the upside of 2023 shooting guard Bryce Coleman Bryce Coleman 6'6" | SF Proviso East | 2023 State IL with his feathery perimeter game.
Tinley Park
Much like Rolling Meadows when you have one of the premier prospects in the state on your side that is a good start. Tinley Park has that with AJ Casey. The power forward made major improvements as a sophomore and is getting better by the day. Scores at multiple levels with mobility and athleticism. Changes the game defensively swatting shots and guarding on the perimeter. AaReyon Munir-Jones AaReyon Munir-Jones 6'2" | SG Hillcrest | 2022 State IL has the potential to be Robin to Casey’s Batman.
Tuscola
This central Illinois small school program is on the rise behind their young floor general Jalen Quinn Jalen Quinn 6'3" | PG Tuscola | 2022 State #136 Nation IL . The top 10 2022 elevates those around him with his passing. Throws excellent dishes. Also is a big time scorer at 6’3” being able to handle it and get to the rack.
Washington
One of the better central Illinois programs should be back next year with a strong group. Devon Vanderheydt is a strong forward that can really shoot the rock stretching the floor. Rickey Woods is an athletic two guard that can get buckets in an array of ways. Those two rising seniors will be helped inside by 2023 post Gus Lucas.