Grassroots First Person: Illinois Bears
In our “First Person Grassroots Recap” series we take a look at how the travel team
season went for one our state’s programs.
Let’s break down the summer of the Illinois Bears with their director Justin Barrington.
17U
Record:
28-7
Championships/Accomplishments:
2nd at Adidas All-American & Jets/Ramey United May event, Final 4 Chicago Jam Fest, Chicago Summer Challenge, AAU Super Showcase
Key Wins:
Da House (MS), Philly Pride (2018), Gulf Shores All Stars (MS), Spiece Indy Heat Red
Overall Thoughts on Season:
We played really well as a group, multiply coaches said we were their favorite team to watch play. The kids moved the ball and did whatever it took for us to win games.
Standout Performers:
Noah Frederking – scored at all 3 levels, rebounded, and defended well
Grant Wolfe – ran the team for us and made sure to get everyone involved
Justin Shadowens – did everything the team needed
Preston English – one of the best shooters in the region, consistently knocked down shots throughout the spring & summer
16U
Record:
19-8
Championships/Accomplishments:
2nd place Premiere Hoops, Final 4 Adidas All-American, Jets/Ramey United May event
Overall Thoughts on Season:
We battled, played hard smart and together as one.
Standout Performers:
Isaiah Saulsberry – now a D1 prospect (SIU, SIUE, EIU) that scored consistently all year for us, if we need to score, he was our go to guy.
Blake Drue – brought added toughness to the team and created issues for the other teams on the defensive end of the floor
John Keeler – a guy who will play anywhere on the floor with strong hands, and rebounds the ball as well as anyone
15U
Record:
19-9
Championships/Accomplishments:
Second Place Adidas All-American, Jets/Ramey May event, Midwest Youth Bowling Green
Overall Thoughts on Season:
Played up tempo and as a group to help win games. They consistently wore teams down to help lead to wins throughout the spring and summer.
Standout Performers:
Landon Wolfe – big time scorer who helped get others going as well. He saw action at all three levels for us
Derrin Boyd (Caldwell County KY) – scorer who can get to the rim to score or dish to help get others involved