Illinois Class of 2018 PG Stock Risers
What 2018 point guards boosted their stock the most in the latest edition of the PrepHoopsIllinois rankings? Check them out here!
Kendle Moore (Danville)
The Danville point guard was in the mix with some of the top point guards in this class, but vaulted himself into the top 10 overall with his play in the first half of the season. He was extremely impressive when we saw him live at the Pontiac Holiday Tournament. He used his speed to push the tempo, get others involved, and his three point shot has greatly improved. That helped him move from #16 to #9. Mid-major to low-major prospect.
Xavier Pinson (St. Patrick’s)
Pinson has had an outstanding season for St. Patrick’s. The 6’2” point guard is a long and lanky lead guard that has shown the ability to both score and dish. He is slick with the ball in his hands handling with flare. Flashy passer that can also make the simple play as well. Consistency on the perimeter jumper has really improved. Moved up to #27 in the latest rankings.
Jalen Hodge (O’Fallon)
Hodge is a quick lefty point guard that plays with a lot of energy. He is a good floor leader that plays bigger than his 6’0” height. Hodge is great with the rock in the open floor pushing it with speed. Has the ability to hit a stop and pop mid-range J. Gets others involved in both the half court and in transition. Defensively he is pesky on the ball with active hands. Made the move from #103 to #58. He has the potential to play at the D2 level.
Morgan Taylor (Marist)
The fast lead guard from Marist got rave reviews after his play at the Centralia Holiday Tournament. He won MVP of the event leading his team to the championship. Played well when we saw him this past summer on the circuit for Illinois Fastbreak. Look forward to continuing to evaluate this junior point guard. Made leap from #77 to #60.
Michael Smith (Joliet West)
We had heard about Smith for a while, but he really jumped on our radar with his play as a junior. Plays mostly off the ball with D1 recruit Teyvion Kirk manning the point for Joliet West. Smith is an excellent spot up shooter that has shot it tremendously well from three this season. Went from not ranked to #80 in the latest edition of the 2018 class rankings.
Jack Marinko (Edwardsville)
Marikno is another prospect that is making his debut in the 2018 player rankings. With so many talented players on Edwardsville it is hard to stand out at times, but Marinko has with his shooting from deep for the Tigers. He was lights out from the perimeter when we saw him at Collinsville. Much like Michael Smith he is playing off the ball mostly now because of a D1 point guard on his team, but next year will transition to the lead guard spot. Debuts at #81.