Illinois Bears 2021 vs 2022 Scrimmage

<p>Prep Hoops Illinois checked in on some of the top 2021 and 2022 southern Illinois prospects over the weekend as the Illinois Bears squads took on each other in Nashville, Tennessee.  Here are our standouts from the <strong>Illinois Bears 2021 vs 2022 Scrimmage</strong>!</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="821774" first="Noah" last="Franklin"] (Cobden – 2021)</strong></p> <p>Franklin is a 6’7” point forward that brings a strong body and skilled game to the table.  Plays inside and out.  Pushes in the open floor after consistently grabbing defensive rebounds.  Scored on an array of cuts to the hoop, post ups, and hook shots.  Took it from the mid-post as well off the dribble.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="765214" first="Landon" last="Zurliene"] (Fairfield – 2021)</strong></p> <p>Zurliene is a wiry thin wing that has a smooth looking shot which he knocked in off a dribble handoff.  Also got loose several times in transition for scores.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="1105730" first="Reece" last="Johnson"] (Benton – 2021)</strong></p> <p>Johnson is a tough wing that can flat out knock down shots.  He did it from the baseline, mid-range shots, and three.  Solid passer that threw crisp dishes.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="652797" first="Joe" last="Melton"] (Norris City Omaha Enfield – 2021)</strong></p> <p>Melton is a very intriguing small college post.  The thin and wiry five man did a nice job passing the rock getting others involved.  Protected the rim, hit the offensive glass, and ran the floor hard like usual.  Also continues to prove he is one of the most capable shooting bigs in the senior class hitting from deep.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="863605" first="Justin" last="King"] (Mascoutah – 2022)</strong></p> <p>King is a slick handling 6’4” point guard that is effective in the drive and kick game.  Was at his best setting up others, but also knocked in several shots from three including a silky smooth pull up behind a ball screen.  Handles it well through traffic including a nifty scoop shot.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="863611" first="Chase" last="Travis"] (Olney – 2022)</strong></p> <p>Travis has a projectable frame along with some upside.  Handles it well in space pushing in the open court.  Got to the rim for several layups and runners.  Also has a clean looking pull up game.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>[player_tooltip player_id="1106927" first="Elliot" last="Lowndes"] (Cobden – 2022)</strong></p> <p>The 6’9” center is a long and lanky five that has a lot of skill.  Once he adds strength he could be really good.  Finished dump offs, ran the hoop, and knocked in an array of short jumpers. </p>