Riverside Brookfield: Bates’ Breakout Performers (Upperclassmen)
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Camden Cerese Camden Cerese 6'2" | PG Lake Park | 2024 State IL 6’2 G (Lake Park ’24): Cerese was magnificent the entire weekend. Often times, some may question the ability of some players based on the perception that they…
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Continue ReadingCamden Cerese Camden Cerese 6'2" | PG Lake Park | 2024 State IL 6’2 G (Lake Park ’24):
Cerese was magnificent the entire weekend. Often times, some may question the ability of some players based on the perception that they don’t play a high level of competition on a consistent basis. Well we can put those perceptions to rest after the performances that Camden displayed this weekend. He showed that he can go toe to toe with the states best teams and players and produce at a high level.
Davis Bynum Davis Bynum 6'7" | PF East St. Louis | 2024 State IL 6’7 F (East St. Louis ’24):
This young man came out and was an absolute monster. In the game against Chicago Powerhouse Whitney Young, his activity level resulted in his overall dominance in the game. Finishing with 27 points and 12 rebounds, Bynum established himself as a force to be reckon with. Another player who came into the event relatively unknown, and did great things for his stock. Excited to track him moving forward, as he picked up offers from Eastern Illinois, and Southern Illinois Edwardsville.
Jakob Blakley Jakob Blakley 6'1" | PG Walter Payton | 2024 State IL 6’2 Pg (Larkin ’24):
“Mr. Live Period” was back in full swing this past weekend. I jokingly gave him that nickname because when the lights are brightest Blakley is generally at the top of his game. This past weekend Blakley was a one man wrecking crew. He went for 30+ on multiple occasions. He has an uncanny ability for making shots all over the floor. His text book release has every shot looking like it is going in. Showing no ill effects from his prior injury, he was one of the better players in the event regardless of class. Picked up offers from Eastern Illinois University and Lewis University.
Robert Walls Robert Walls 6'2" | PG DePaul Prep | 2025 State IL 6’2 G (Depaul Prep ’25):
After a sophomore season where he played a complimentary role on a state championship team, Walls came to RB on a mission. The “Tazmanian Devil” type guard was relentless all weekend. Could potentially have the highest motor in the state. Rob was dynamic on both ends of the floor. He made three pointers, scored from the midrange, and was dynamic getting downhill for finishes. He did this all while often times while guarding the other teams best player. Some kids just have winning intangibles, and Rob Walls is one of those players.
Chase Abraham 6’1 Pg (Thornton Twp ’24):
He may receive my vote as breakout performer of the tournament. Many came into the weekend not knowing much about him, but certainly left with a clear understanding. Chase flat out “GOT GAME.” Creative ball handler who can get by, or get separation from the best of defenders. Displayed the ability to score and facilitate for a Thornton team that played like a well oiled machine. Has the 3 level scoring ability which coaches at the next level love. I will come out and say it, this very well may be a Division 1 guard that seemingly came out of nowhere. As you can see, I am high on Chase.
Jax Abalos Jax Abalos 6'7" | SF Batavia | 2025 State IL 6’6 F (Batavia ’24):
What I like about Jax is just his sheer level of consistency on the basketball floor. I have grown accustomed to knowing the level of productivity that we are going to get from him on a regular basis. Jax has next level shot making ability that at his size makes him a mismatch nightmare for opposing teams. His scoring and rebounding numbers were high throughout the weekend. I expect him to start garnering more college attention sooner rather than later.