Marist (Chicago) is ranked #3 in Chicago Area according to Big Tim's poll. They are the #2 seed in Rich Township (Richton Park) Sectional which to me is the toughest sectional in the state. But why are folks like me not talking about them as a state title threat? They are lying in the weeds in a lot of people's minds. Here's my breakdown:
This team has tied the record for most wins in school history. Will likely break it on Wednesday in their first round game vs Eisenhower (Blue Island) in Marist (Chicago) Regional. They are hosting so should have no problems winning that regional. This is a junior laden team which might give people like myself pause to see them as a threat. Here's some reasons why we might take anothe look:
Two point guards that are solid and can do everything.
Adoni Vassilakis, 6'2" junior point guard: Third year on varsity can shoot the three off the bounce o the catch. Lefty can fill it up which means you can put him on the wing as well as off the ball. Lots of varsity experience and has improved as a defender.
Torreence "TJ" Tate, 5'11' junior point guard: A floor general, leader and good at running a team. He defends tough on the ball and gets steals with quick hands. Gets into the lane and creates for himself and others. He mostly looks to create for others when getting into the lane. Good three point shooter.
Athletic wings:
Stephen Brown, 6'7" junior wing: Came back mid season from a shoulder injury suffered in football. One of the top prospects in his class in Illinois. Has come one since getting his legs back scoring from the perimeter, on drives to the basket. Hitting the glass and rim protecting at a high level. Versatile defender. High level athlete. Three year varsity performer.
Karson Thomas, 6'3" junior combo guard: King of Bounce high energry player that they bring off the bench. He can run point if needed, hit threes, but is very effective slashing to the basket off the perimeter, or the fast break. He can set up teammates or finish himself. Defends four positions on the high school level. Transfer from Lincoln Way East (Frankfort).
Big time shooter at the off guard spot:
Rokas Zilys, 6'3" shooting guard: Absolutely fills it up from three point range. Can do it off the catch or off the bounce to shoot a two dribble mid range pull-up jump shot. He hits the defensive glass at a high level too. Can put up 20 on you at anytime. Transfer from Vermont Academy (VT) back into the state.
Double/double machine in the paint:
Marquis Vance, 6'5" senior forward: The only senior in this lineup. High energy young man who's their inside force. A threat to get a double/double anytime, and rim protects in the paint. Had a 40/20 game this year. Hard to keep off the offensive glass. Good passer out of the post.
This team has had some impressive games just blowing out Evergreen Park by 50 last week!!!!! Gave Waubonsie Valkey (Aurora) their first of two losses this season. Beat State Class 3A contender Brother Rice (Chicago), State Class 2A contender Dyett (Chicago).
Only two losses was at Benet Academy (Lisle) in overtime, and to Centralia in semifinals of Centralia Holiday Tournament. Lost 52-26 (don't know what happened that game, I guess every team has a dud game in a year). Tied for East Suburban Catholic Title with Benet (Academy) Lisle. Have not lost in 2025, winning 16 straight and counting.
What gives me pause?
Team is mostly juniors and will have a chance to be preseason #1 to start next season (if they keep all their talent). These guys might do it a year earlier than expected. This is a dangeous team and a sleeper even as a #2 seed in their sectional. Don't be surprised to see them in Champaign earlier than most expect. Will be fun to watch.
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