DeKalb Shootout: Diverse Talent on Display

The DeKalb Shootout featured a strong mix of high school talent across all positions. From rising underclassmen to established leaders, players showcased skill, athleticism, and potential. Here's a look at some of the performers who stood out.    Brought versatility on offense, showing effectiveness around the rim and the ability to knock down jumpers. Displays athletic leaping ability for above-the-rim finishes and has projectable length on the wing. On defense, he showed awareness in helping cover ball screens. Competes hard on the glass and doesn't shy away from physical play. As he continues to develop his skill set, he has the tools to become an even more impactful two-way contributor.     An incoming Crete-Monee freshman with a heavy-set frame who brings size and strength to the 5 spot. Uses his wide body well to set solid, fundamental ball screens and flashed potential as a roller in pick-and-roll action. Possesses strong hands to secure rebounds with authority on both ends. An intriguing underclass big man with a physical presence worth tracking as he develops.     Plays with swagger and confidence. Shows creativity on drives and a wide variety of finishing moves around the rim. Possesses the craft to maneuver past defenders, using quick change-of-pace dribbles and effective body control. Has get-by speed off the bounce. Jumpy defensive instincts that help him anticipate passes. A true three-level scorer with a smooth and accurate touch from mid-range and beyond the arc. Capable of playing both guard spots effectively, offering flexibility in the backcourt.     A long and active 6'7” big man who made plays on both ends of the floor. His height and wingspan are pivotal on defense—altering shots, protecting the rim, and rebounding with presence. Shows timing on shot contests and blocks. Offensively, he smartly found space in the paint for dump-off passes and showed awareness around the basket. Developing softer hands will help him more consistently secure tight interior feeds, but there's a lot to like in his upside and tools.     A 42% three-point shooter last season, Kirby brought that same fire to DeKalb. He's a knockdown shooter from deep, combining volume and efficiency. Excels in spot-up situations with a pure, quick release off the catch. Moves well without the ball, flowing along the perimeter to fill gaps and create clean looks. His off-ball awareness sets him up for success, and with that shooting base, expect an uptick in production this season.     After spending time with Whitney Young, Little returns home to suit up for Plainfield East. He plays with an aggressive, attacking mindset, constantly putting pressure on the defense's interior. Shows strong ball control in traffic, which helps him create inside looks and draw contact to get to the free-throw line. An area for growth is his shot selection—limiting contested and off-balance attempts will help him become more efficient and elevate his overall offensive impact.

The DeKalb Shootout featured a strong mix of high school talent across all positions. From rising underclassmen to established leaders, players showcased skill, athleticism, and potential. Here's a look at some of the performers who stood out.