Program Profile: Wisconsin Elite

As basketball is coming back into full swing with many established programs continuing to solidify their iconic names in the circuit, some programs are beginning anew and they are looking to come out swinging. Wisconsin Elite, based out of Racine, Wisconsin, is one of these programs. Branching off from the former Caron Butler Lee program, Wisconsin Elite directed by Johnny Harrell has plans set on dominating the competition in their first year of being founded. They’ll be doing so as a part of the Prep Hoops Next Circuit. For more information on the Prep Hoops Next Circuit, check out PrepHoopsNext.com/Circuit.

Elite Beginnings:

     This isn’t one of the traditional beginnings of a program that wants to play some of the top national competition. Harrell began his coaching career by beginning with youth leagues and the YMCA. From these leagues and the YMCA a core group of kids was built and they began taking steps in the travel basketball scene and now are an official part of the Circuit.

     Harell has been involved with basketball for a while. He had the opportunity to play at Northern Illinois but couldn’t due to unfortunate circumstances in his life at the time. “I am a basketball junkie. I love the game, played it, constantly watch it, and my passion for the game never left. I want to give back the knowledge former coaches gave me and give back to the community like coaches did for me. This is the first year of the program and we’re looking to do well on the Prep Hoops Next Circuit,” said program director Johnny Harrell. 

Looking to dominate: 

     “We’re looking to dominate and compete with anybody in the country,” said Harrell. “I feel like we’re a top 15 team in the country.” 

     Wisconsin Elite competed in a tournament in Kansas City and lost to Yanders Law by only three points, a team many believe are among the nation’s best. “We’ve played with a lot of teams that have strong foundations toe to toe, and the plan is to continue to grow and compete,” Harrell said. 

     “I legitimately feel like we can compete with anyone in the country. We’re going to compete on a national schedule with the Prep Hoops Circuit and we’re also going to compete on the Under Armour Circuit in the Midwest and I think we can compete with anyone,” Harrell added.

History of Winning: 

     The 2026 roster is ready to put its name on a national scene and is primed to win. They have a history of winning, and they don’t plan on stopping anytime soon. “This team won the WYBL in Wisconsin last year. We beat everyone by large amounts, I mean blowouts and absolutely dominated. We weren’t allowed to compete this year just because of the skill gap in the competition,” Harrell said. 

Top 2026 Players to Watch: 

     The 2026 roster is primed with talent and guys that get it done on both ends.

Lamont Hamilton, 5’9”, Point Guard

     “I am not afraid to say that I think he’s a top 5 player in the country. He has dominated every circuit and camp in the country. He’s for sure a guy to watch,” Harrell said. 

     Hamilton runs the offense and does everything for Wisconsin Elite. He attacks and breaks down defenders, attacks the rim, and can hit shots to open up spacing on the floor. He also knows when to hit teammates in stride and set them up for success. 

Ed Vinson JR, 5’9”, Guard

     Vinson is a guard that has the ability to play both ways. He has the ability to finish at the rim and step up defensively and get a stop if it’s needed. “He does all the little things. He’s a guy that you can put in the game and know he’s going to do the right things.”

Anthony Liggins, 5’9”, Wing

     Anthony is an athlete and is a versatile player that can be plugged into multiple places and still be successful.  “He’s our three and D guy, he can guard anyone because of his athleticism. He’s extremely versatile.” Harrell said. 

Top 2027 Players to Watch: 

Kentrayl Robinson, 6’3”, Center

     Robinson is a defensive anchor for the 2027 team coming in at a 6’3” at a young age. “He has a lot of game-changing ability on that end and is a great defender for us,” Harrell said. 

     While Robinson is good on the defensive end, he’s still growing into himself on the offensive end and working on his game. He has the potential to be a good two way guy if he can grow into himself offensively. 

Mike Farr, 5’5”, Guard. 

     Farr is a quick athletic guard that can play at a high level on both ends of the basketball. “He’s able to get past defenders and keep up with opposing players on the defensive end because of his athleticism and speed,” Harrell said.