Ridgewood Live Shootout: 8 for 8
![Ridgewood Live Shootout: 8 for 8](https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/02/Marcos-Gonzales-Romeo-crop-2883x1893-1719632095.jpg?w=800)
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Friday kicked off the first day of Ridgewood Live, featuring 102 teams set to compete over the three-day event. Our Prep Hoops Illinois scouts were all over the courts, covering our selected matchups. In this article, I’ll highlight the eight…
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Continue ReadingFriday kicked off the first day of Ridgewood Live, featuring 102 teams set to compete over the three-day event. Our Prep Hoops Illinois scouts were all over the courts, covering our selected matchups. In this article, I’ll highlight the eight games I watched and spotlight the top player from each matchup, regardless of the outcome.
Riverside-Brookfield vs. Niles Notre Dame
Sehlhorst was a playmaker on both sides of the ball against R-B. He consistently pressured the Bulldogs’ defense with his penetrating tactics and found numerous open kick-out options. He showcased a crisp shot from mid-range and three-point distance, including smoothly pulling up after putting on the brakes. Sehlhorst outmuscled opponents in the paint and demonstrated good help-side defense, proving himself to be an all-around hustler.
Highlights
Glenbard West vs. St. Viator
Williams continues to improve each time I see him compete. Against St. Viator, he was a constant force when driving to the basket. He executed a fantastic baseline drive, finding 6’6″ Logan Glover Logan Glover 6'6" | PF Glenbard West | 2025 State IL with a last-second dish for a dunk. That vision was evident throughout the game, as he showed a knack for creating opportunities for his teammates. In the final minutes of the matchup, Williams snagged a lob pass near half-court and took it all the way for an impressive two-handed jam. He’s a three-level scorer and a bouncy defender who will continue to develop for the Hilltoppers.
Curie vs. Lemont
The southpaw had an electric motor versus Curie, showcasing why he is the #1 ranked player in his 2026 class. He plays with an upbeat tempo, loves to run the floor, and excels at either getting to the rim himself or quickly finding teammates to exploit the defense. Sularski elevates for rebounds on the defensive end and is highly capable of getting the board and pushing the pace in transition. He did a great job of out-hustling the Condors by following up on his missed shots. His shot from three-point territory is silky smooth and accurate. Additionally, he’s a team player who creates opportunities for his teammates and keeps their heads in the game.
Highlights
Ridgewood vs. Brother Rice
Gonzales was phenomenal against an undermatched Ridgewood team, showcasing a variety of skillful handles and seizing every opportunity to attack the rim with finesse. His ability to break down defenders and penetrate the defense was particularly impressive. Gonzales proved to be a playmaker on offense, demonstrating clear vision and a knack for making plays happen. He was a legitimate threat from beyond the arc, showing a quick and clean release. Overall, he boosted his stock during the first day of competition.
Maine South vs. Sacred Heart Griffin
Rico had a field day against Griffin, showcasing his ability to finish through contact, convert and-1 opportunities, and frequently visit the charity stripe. He proved to be a strong-handed rebounder, securing possessions effectively. During a transition play following a teammate’s steal, Rico gained ground and capped it off with a powerful two-handed dunk. Later in the second half, he impressed with an off-the-backboard alley-oop jam. His athleticism was on full display throughout the game.
Highlights
Michele Clark vs. Northridge Prep
![Jermery Johns](https://prephoops.com/wp-content/themes/prep-network-content/public/images/generic-male.png)
Jermery Johns
Jermery Johns
Johns brought infectious energy that uplifted his teammates, setting the tone to disrupt and dismantle a struggling Northridge Prep team. He showcased his speed in transition and consistently made plays around the rim throughout the game. Early in the first half, Johns impressed with his defensive acumen, effectively tying up a downhill driver for a jump ball. His active hands frequently disrupted plays and contributed to his team’s defensive efforts.
Evanston vs. Neuqua Valley
![Ben Ojala](https://prephoops.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2024/06/IMG_2698-crop-3226x2118-1719631778.jpg)
Ben Ojala
Ben Ojala
It’s rare to find a freshman standing out on a varsity team, but Ojala defies expectations. He’s lethal from beyond the arc, showcasing a beautiful shot form. Against Neuqua Valley, he drained over four three-pointers, unfazed by defenders’ efforts to contain him. Despite his inexperience at the varsity level, Ojala impressed with his off-ball movement and readiness in a shooter’s stance. As a 2028 prospect, he undoubtedly has a bright future ahead, solidifying Evanston Township with a certified bucket-getter.
Batavia vs. North Lawndale
Against North Lawndale, Abalos initially struggled with his three-point shooting. However, he quickly found his rhythm as the game progressed. He showcased his basketball IQ with a fantastic back-cut that resulted in a pass in stride, culminating in a dunk. Abalos demonstrated tenacity by following up on his missed shots and aggressively snatching offensive rebounds for quick putbacks. On top of his performance, he received an offer from North Dakota on the same day.