PHI Spring Exposure: 2027 All-Event First Team
In this article:
Prep Hoops Illinois ignited the spring season with an exciting Exposure Session, drawing talented players from classes 2024-2027. I had the privilege of observing the entire 2027 class, discovering numerous promising prospects along the way. This week, I’ll be unveiling…
Access all of Prep Hoops
Continue reading this article and more.
Continue ReadingPrep Hoops Illinois ignited the spring season with an exciting Exposure Session, drawing talented players from classes 2024-2027. I had the privilege of observing the entire 2027 class, discovering numerous promising prospects along the way. This week, I’ll be unveiling the “All-Event” teams, starting with the highly anticipated 2027 All-Event First Team.
Reese undoubtedly stood out as one of the top prospects in the 2027 class during the Spring Exposure Session. As a shooting guard from Glenbard South, he showed the ability to generate his own scoring opportunities at any moment. Whether driving with finesse to secure position inside the key, executing mid-range pull-ups, or confidently setting up along the perimeter, Reese showcased an impressive three-level scoring repertoire.
He actively engaged his teammates by delivering sharp passes, demonstrating not just his scoring but also his playmaking ability. Reese showed some skill on the boards too, consistently grabbing rebounds within his reach and hustling to secure loose balls. Reese is undoubtedly a young athlete poised for growth and success in the years to come.
Highlights
Venckus is a wiry 6’0″ point guard who demonstrated a scoring mindset every time he stepped onto the court. His utilization of his pivot foot was masterful, executing smooth up-and-unders and step-through moves with finesse. He hit challenging pull-up mid-range jumpers and displayed a soft touch using the backboard. His driving game was purposeful and disruptive to opposing defenses, complemented by skilled passing.
His calmness under tight ball-handling pressure was evident. Whether driving to the rim or creating shots from various angles, Venckus consistently exhibited an ability to score from any position on the floor. Lockport boasts a promising young guard with a wealth of skills.
Highlights
The Evanston guard showcased exceptional skills throughout the entire session, harnessing his confidence and elevating his play as the day progressed. His ability to cut sharply and smartly on offense created numerous opportunities, both for himself and his teammates. In transition, Pompey’s speed was a game-changer, leading to quick scoring opportunities for his team.
One standout moment was during a transition sequence where Pompey faked a pass, causing his defender to turn, before delivering a pass to a teammate in stride—all in one fluid motion. His ball-handling was quick and tight, allowing him to utilize his speed with direct drives to the basket. He took over in his last 5v5 game and went on a noteworthy individual scoring run.
Gino DeSandre
Gino DeSandre
Lockport boasts another promising prospect in DeSandre, who brings versatility and skill to the guard position. He can effectively run the point, but also contribute as a scorer when playing off the ball. His ability to stop on a dime and execute fluid pull-up jumpers adds a layer to his offensive arsenal. DeSandre shined as a spot-up shooter along the arc, showcasing nice off-ball movement to find open spaces.
His shooting mechanics are pure, characterized by good elevation, control, and a high arc on his shot, that translates well from beyond the three-point line to inside the arc. He has patience and court vision as a driver, feeding open teammates first before looking for his own scoring.
Dovydas Zuperka
Dovydas Zuperka
Zuperka displayed skill by connecting on difficult off-balance shots and utilizied the backboard effectively. His shooting prowess extended beyond catch-and-shoot situations, as he confidently hit numerous three-pointers off the dribble, under tight defensive pressure. One of his strengths was his ability to leverage his height, particularly in grabbing offensive rebounds and converting them into points. Additionally, his defensive contributions were notable, showcasing solid help-side defense that led to impressive shot blocks.
While Zuperka exhibited good driving ability and a raw talent for pull-up jumpers, there is room for improvement in terms of adding muscle to contend with stronger defenders. As a small forward from Stagg, Zuperka’s development promises excitement, making him a player to watch as he continues to grow and hone his skills.
The guard from Kindi Academy brings an abundance of energy, paired with excellent pace and speed on the court. His arsenal includes strong rip-through moves, effective head fakes, and a fearless approach when attacking his defender while driving. Esily consistently beat his opponents, effortlessly maneuvering his way to the basket time and again. His awareness of his advantages allowed him to exploit them effectively.
On the defensive end, Esily’s active presence was noticeable as he constantly moved around, always looking to disrupt plays. While he’s already made it onto the 2027 Watch List, it’s important to keep a close watch on him as he possesses raw talent and the potential to climb higher in the rankings as he continues to develop.