Tilmon tops list of best seniors in state
CITY/ SUBURBAN HOOPS REPORT
Welcome back, Jeremiah Tilmon. High school basketball in Illinois needed you.
Tilmon’s return to East St. Louis after a year at an out- of- state prep school pumps up the Class of 2017 in Illinois. Tilmon, who is committed to Illinois, is a legitimate McDonald’s All- America candidate.
Here is a look at the top 10 senior prospects in Illinois after the busy summer months:
1. Jeremiah Tilmon, 6- 10, East St. Louis
Tilmon, atop-25prospectnationally, is a major factor at both ends of the floor. Chicago- area fans can catch a glimpse of him in December at the Chicago Elite Classic.
College: Committed to Illinois.
2. Jordan Goodwin, 6- 3, Belleville Althoff
By far the most accomplished and productive player in the class through three seasons. He boasts a state title and a reputation of being an ultimate winner and warrior.
College: Committed to Saint Louis.
3. Justin Smith, 6- 7, Stevenson
After playing at another level during the second half of last season, the ultra- athletic forward impressed this summer and is the best uncommitted prospect in the state.
College: Upcoming visits to Xavier, Indiana, Villanova and Stanford.
4. Da’Monte Williams, 6- 3, PeoriaManual
When the light goes on and he’s thoroughly engaged, Williams is a superb talent. Now it’s a matter of keeping the light on for long, consistent stretches.
College: Committed to Illinois.
5. Nojel Eastern, 6- 6, Evanston
A fixture on the scene since his freshman year, Eastern brings great size and unmatched versatility to the perimeter.
College: He visited Purdue last weekend, and Michigan State, DePaul, Missouri and others still are involved.
6. Alonzo Verge, 6- 2, Thornton
Will we see the dynamic Verge we sawtwo years ago atWillowbrook? If so, he’s a major added attraction in the south suburbs.
College: His recruitment isn’t very far along.
7. Elijah Joiner, 6- 2, Curie
An underrated player who is poised to have a breakout senior season, Joiner is an efficient scorer and shooter with improving ball skills.
College: Visited Illinois State. UAB is in the mix, and he has a visit to Iowa State set up later this fall.
8. Javon Pickett, 6- 4, Belleville East
His shooting and ballhandling still are coming along, but he plays hard and finds a way to affect games in a variety of ways with his length and toughness.
College: Committed to Illinois.
9. Nana Akenten, 6- 5, Bolingbrook
A big, athletic wing player with a nice shooting stroke that is becoming more consistent by the week. Look for Akenten to be more of a difference- maker this season.
College: Wide- open at this point, with Nebraska, SMU, Illinois State, UTEP and Valparaiso among those involved.
10. Cameron Krutwig, 6- 8, Jacobs
A true on- the- block big man who has good feel and terrific footwork with his back to the basket. Throwin that he’s an elite passer, and his lack of athleticism can be overlooked.
College: Committed to Loyola.