Friday Afternoon Highlights: DeKalb Shootout Standouts

The DeKalb Shootout tipped off with a bang Friday afternoon, as some of the state's brightest prospects wasted no time making their mark. All six courts were buzzing with standout performances and competitive matchups. Here's a look at the players who stole the spotlight and set the tone for the weekend.    Immediately drew attention with his perimeter shot-making, connecting on 6+ three-pointers in first matchup against Crete-Monee. Displays high-level shooting mechanics and court awareness, especially in how he reads screens and utilizes them to create space for his quick release. Shows a strong fundamental base, often playing off two feet and using a crafty shot and head fake to keep defenders guessing.   More than just a shooter, he has also flashed on-ball creation, with the ability to break defenders down off the dribble and attack downhill. Suffered a minor injury in early June that briefly sidelined him, but he's since returned and continues to impress.   An underrated shooter from Northern Illinois, he has the tools and confidence to potentially become the next standout star for Huntley High School.     Crete-Monee adds a key piece in Greer, a transfer from Argo who brings a versatile offensive skill set. Shows a fluid catch-and-shoot stroke from the perimeter, with natural rhythm and confidence beyond the arc. His athleticism is a standout trait, allowing him to elevate with ease—both when attacking the rim and when competing on the glass.   Possesses solid ball-handling skills and demonstrates touch from the mid-range, adding layers to his scoring game. With his length and playmaking ability, Greer projects as a dynamic offensive contributor who can impact multiple areas of the game.   Expect him to be an immediate boost for the Warriors this upcoming season.     An incoming freshman who's already turning heads. Competing against upperclassmen, Brown looked like one himself—matching their physicality and outpacing them with his quick burst and tight crossover. He consistently put pressure on Glenbard South's defense, creating separation off the bounce and forcing rotations.   One standout moment included a sharp drive from the top of the arc, finished with a quick, instinctive drop-off pass to his big for an easy bucket—highlighting his court vision and unselfish playmaking.   Defensively, Brown brings a mix of speed, length, and lateral quickness, allowing him to disrupt passing lanes and contain ball-handlers. With a versatile skill set, strong feel for the game, and clear confidence, he's on track to become a high-level contributor for Bradley-Bourbonnais this winter.     The senior guard didn't disappoint in a highly contested matchup versus University, showcasing the same lethal shooting stroke that helped him break Harlem's single-season three-point record last season.   A confident and accurate perimeter shooter, Perera doesn't need much space to get his shot off and connect from deep. He moves with purpose off the ball, sliding into open windows and keeping defenders chasing.   When chased off the line, he smartly attacked closeouts, showing craft and control at the rim, with a knack for creative finishes. Plays with visible energy and heart, and embraces the moment. With his shooting gravity, basketball IQ, and competitive fire, Perera will be a go-to option for the Huskies this season.     Johnson was nothing short of dominant in a statement performance against Harlem. A physically built point guard, Johnson made high-impact plays throughout the game, showcasing leadership, toughness, and poise under pressure.   He keeps his head up with the ball, finding teammates in stride and delivering passes on time and on target. When he decides to attack, he's a bulldozer with a head of steam, finishing through contact and drawing fouls. His strength also allows him to exploit mismatches in the post.   The defining moment came late: a go-ahead and-one with under 30 seconds left, effectively sealing the win against a high-energy Harlem squad.   With his blend of physicality, feel, and competitiveness, Johnson is poised for an outstanding senior season and should draw serious attention as a lead guard who can control tempo and win games     An athletic, high-motor combo guard from Chicago West Suburbs who's quickly becoming a key piece for Glenbard South. A true do-it-all presence, Reese consistently finds ways to impact the game—always around the ball and rarely taking a play off.   Offensively, he does most of his damage inside the paint, using his quickness and strength to finish through traffic. He's also capable of knocking down the three when left open, keeping defenders honest. Reese's energy stands out, especially on the boards, where he contributes significantly as a guard and generates valuable second-chance opportunities.   Defensively, he flies around the court, showing his ability to disrupt plays, contest shots, and rotate effectively. While his shot selection and decision-making are still developing, he's showing clear signs of rounding into a well-rounded, two-way contributor with a bright future.

The DeKalb Shootout tipped off with a bang Friday afternoon, as some of the state's brightest prospects wasted no time making their mark. All six courts were buzzing with standout performances and competitive matchups. Here's a look at the players who stole the spotlight and set the tone for the weekend.