Chi-Town Showcase: Steve’s Underclassmen Standouts
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This past weekend I attended the Chi-Town Showcase held in the downtown west loop. At the event PHI was able to evaluate many players and the underclassmen of Illinois were on display. Here is a recap of the freshman and sophomore…
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Continue ReadingThis past weekend I attended the Chi-Town Showcase held in the downtown west loop. At the event PHI was able to evaluate many players and the underclassmen of Illinois were on display. Here is a recap of the freshman and sophomore from the event.
Rajan Roberts
Rajan
Roberts
6'2" | PG
Kenwood | 2026
State
IL
– Kenwood 2026
Roberts is a division 1 talent right now as a sophomore. He has smooth handles and shooting mechanics. One of his biggest assets was his escape dribble to get out of jams. He didn’t score a ton but when he did have the ball he made some plays that gave you samples of his full arsenal.
BJ Powell – Lincoln Way East 2026
Powell is one of the returning players from the inaugural event. He came into this year’s event ready to show how good of a scoring threat he is. BJ attacked guys off the dribble with tight crossovers and tough layup finishes. He has extended range on his shot. Powell was named rising star from his play in the Open Run portion of the event.
Stephen Brown
Stephen
Brown
6'7" | PF
Marist | 2026
State
IL
– Marist 2026
The 6’7 Brown had an impact on most of the games. Having the footwork and speed to switch on guards was a plus sign to the athlete he is now. Stephen was very active in the runs and the tournament before going out with a nose injury. He connected on a couple dunks and grabbed several rebounds on the day. He’s player with tons of upside to his game. Will be a high major player if he continues to build on who he is now.
Jamarri Fears
Jamarri
Fears
5'9" | PG
Joliet West | 2027
IL
– Joliet West 2027
In the third installment of Fears guards, Jamarri didn’t seem to be intimidated by the stage. As a true freshman Fears shows good control and poise at the guard spot. It will be fun to watch his development the next few years. (Crossing my fingers that he stays in the state for four years)
Devin Cleveland
Devin
Cleveland
6'2" | PG
Kenwood | 2027
IL
– Kenwood 2027
Considered as one of the top players in the freshman man class, Devin played well in an off the ball capacity. Cleveland has a smooth shot that only touches the net after it goes through the rim. As a young guard in the showcase the players respected Devin enough to not run up on him knowing that he is capable of breaking ankles. With such a bright future ahead the third installment of Cleveland guards has the city on watch.