Class of 2019 Wing Stock Risers
PrepHoopsIllinois takes an in-depth look at the shooting guard and small forward prospects that helped elevate their stock the most in the latest Class of 2019 Rankings!
SF Ethan Helwig (Metea Valley)
Previous Ranking: NR
Current Ranking: #13
Helwig emerged as the top prospect on the Illinois Stars as we were able to see their talented 16U group play in the Midwest during July in both Milwaukee and Kansas City. He is a smooth 6’4” small forward with his ability to score at all three levels. Quality athlete that can get to the rim especially in transition. His jump shot really emerged hitting jumpers from both mid-range and three at a high clip! Mid-major prospect.
SG Lance Jones (Evanston)
Previous Ranking: #51
Current Ranking: #28
Jones lacks ideal size for the two guard position at the D1 level, but makes up for it with his athleticism. His mid-range jumper was on point when we saw him on the circuit as he was slicing and dicing in the lane then pulling up from 15 feet. Gets elevation off the ground on his shot with sound form. Also attacks the rim strong getting and-1s. Going to have to be an undersized two at the next level. Could potentially be a low-major player if he continues to play like he did in stretches this summer.
SF Isaac Stanback (Homewood Flossmoor)
Previous Ranking: #52
Current Ranking: #29
Stanback is a physical 6’5” small forward with big time athleticism. Right now he is mostly a run/jump athlete that lacks much skill. Looks great in transition as a finisher. Doesn’t do much in the half court beyond getting on offensive glass. Jumper isn’t there yet. Really like the motor that he plays with though. Has defensive potential with strength and athleticism. Low-major/D2 prospect right now.
SF Keenan Jones (Whitney Young)
Previous Ranking: #77
Current Ranking: #37
Jones is a 6’5” 2019 small forward from Whitney Young that flies a bit under the radar as he didn’t play as a sophomore due to a loaded Dolphins state title squad. Look for him to get on the floor this year. Very intriguing with his length and ability to contribute on both ends of the floor. Offensively shows well as a spot up shooter from the corners and wings off dribble penetration with his lefty stroke. Good athlete that gets out in transition. Defensively his length and activity level make him a plus defender that plays with a motor on that end of the floor.
SG Justin Eagins (Downers Grove South)
Previous Ranking: #91
Current Ranking: #43
The 6’2” guard has combo type skills. Plays primarily off the ball, but when put in ball screens shows a nice feel for getting others involved in the pick and roll. Plus shooter especially pulling up from behind screens. The lefty has a sweet looking shot from deep. One to continue to monitor!
SG Wesley Hooker (Downers Grove South)
Previous Ranking: #93
Current Ranking: #79
Hooker is a 6’2” power wing out of Downers Grove South that isn’t overly projectable, but just gets stuff done. He uses his strength and motor to rebound at a high level using his second jump to crash the glass for put backs. Scores well in the paint and can convert alley-oop slams. Flashes skill on the perimeter hitting a three on occasion, but it is not consistent game in and game out yet. Hooker was a huge part of the success that an undersized Kessel Heat 16U group had on the circuit this spring and summer.
SG Malik Smith (Alton)
Previous Ranking: NR
Current Ranking: #121
This Alton 2019 wing stands at 6’2” and is all about getting to the rim. Scored in a variety of ways in the paint when we evaluated him on runners, layups, and making trips to the foul line. One to continue to track as he will team up in the backcourt with senior Kevin Caldwell.