What was once a big time tournament destination is back with a South Suburban flavor. This is the 50th annual tournament. I look for big crowds this year as they have 2 of the top 3 teams in the Chicago Area in the event. Here we go:
CO-FAVORITE: Homewood Flossmoor: This was such a close call could not pick one. Ranked 2nd in Big Tim's Chicago Area poll. Have not lost to an Illinois opponent. Senior guard Columbia commit Gianni Cobb is a two end force that attacks the rim on offense, and quick hands on defense gets deflections and steals. Junior guard Jayden Tyler is a division one prospect and topnotch shooter from three point range. Junior wing Byrce Heard is a Top 75 player nationally and is a talented scorer. Lewis commit Mac Hagemaster is the inside force in the paint. Senior Dominic Pangallo is another knockdown three point shooter. Could face Thornton Township in title game.
CO-FAVORITE: Thronton Township (Harvey): Illinois commit senior Morez Johnson Jr is considered by most the top player in the state. He's a double/double machine and rim protector in the paint. Senior guard Chase Abraham has been on a scoring tear lately. Senior guard Meyoh Swansey is an athlete on the wing. 3rd in Big Tim's Chicago Areas poll. Senior point guard Isaiah Green can run the show as well as hit from three point range. Good chance they could face Homewood Flossmoor in title game. Thornton has won this event more than any other school.
DARK HORSES: Rich Township (Richton Park): The host team has just enough talent to make some noise. Seniors Samar Bures, and Victor Brown are good foundations to build on. Sophomore guard Jason Coulter Jr is a slasher from the wing and has an improved three point shot. One of the most talented players in his class in Illinois.
Westinghouse College Prep (Chicago): They don't have a lot of size but have determination and heart. Senior guard DJ Bolden is one of the top three scorers in the Chicago Public League Red Division. Could have an explosive scoring game in the tournament. Senior point guard Askia Bullie is underrated as he can run an offense and shoot the ball from mid range and hit threes. Senior guard Treyvon Ali can score from three and mid range.
UNKNOWN QUANTITY: Hyde Park Academy (Chicago): Defending Champ. They play 10 people but their star senior wing Jurrell Baldwin is on the shelf at the moment. Suffered a foot injury in practice last week and will know more on Tuesday. They have been boosted by the return of the Merritt twins (Maurice, Marquise) long wing players. Junior point guard Christopher "CJ" Thomas has done a good job running the show. They will need more scoring from senior guard Germaine Benson. Sophomore forward Keith Collins (6'8") is getting better with each game in the interior.
Comments