Illinois Freshman Showcase: Top GameChangers

Grant Matheny

August 21, 2022 @ 12:43 PM

Granville certainly didn't play mistake-free basketball, but I still love the point guard's overall game. He embodies what a GameChanger truly is. Granville is the type of prospect who plays with 100 percent effort at all times. The Grayslake standouts has an unstoppable motor, which he uses to find success on both ends of the court. If Granville can continue to improve his overall skillset, he could be a name to know in the future.

Patrick Irvin Jr Patrick Irvin Jr 6'5" | PF Walter Payton | 2026 State IL . -- SF -- Whitney Young

You don't see too many freshman use their size like Irvin Jr. did on Saturday. The 6-foot-4 small forward is physically strong and very skilled. I loved how the Whitney Young prospect never gave up on a play. He was always working. Irvin proved to be a dominate rebounder and talented scorer around the rim. I look forward to keeping an eye on Irvin moving forward.

William Hwang William Hwang 6'2" | SG Benet Academy | 2026 IL -- SG -- Benet Academy

Hwang was one of the first prospects that caught my eye on Saturday morning. While many of his peers took awhile to get warmed up, the Benet Academy shooting guard showed up to the gym ready to go. The shooting guard made some impressive plays on the offensive end of the court. He was able to showcase his smooth outside shot and next-level slashing skills.

Ayden Willis Ayden Willis 5'9" | SG Decatur MacArthur | 2026 IL -- SG -- Decatur MacArthur High School

I saw a lot of talented scorers on Sunday afternoon, and Willis is certainly at the top of the list. The shooting guard showed off some incredible offensive skills. I love how Willis was able to catch fire quickly. At one point, the SG was able to score five quick points, proving himself as an elite scorer. I will be looking out for Willis moving forward.

Andre Tyler Andre Tyler 6'5" | SG/SF Higley | 2026 State AZ -- SG -- St. Rita

Sometimes younger players can lack confidence. Many times, they don't have true confidence in their skillset. This is not the case with Tyler. The shooting guard is an impressive talent. With time running down in the first game of the day, Tyler was able to drain a step-back three to send the matchup to overtime. The SG is a dynamic scorer who can get buckets from all three levels.

Nasir Rankin Nasir Rankin 6'2" | SG Morgan Park | 2026 State IL -- PG -- Whitney Young

Rankin is going to be a prospect to know in Illinois' freshman class. The point guard is a great athlete and slasher. He does a really nice job of using his strength and bounce to get to the rim and finish difficult layups. If Rankin puts it all together, I really think that he could be a top prospect for years to come.