Forwards and Posts Impact in Denard Bros All-Star Game

The last weekend in March brought me to Phillips High School for one final look at some of the top talent in Illinois' 2026 class. Across three All-Star matchups, high-level players from around the state took the floor. Here's a breakdown of the standout forwards and post players who made the biggest impact.   [player_tooltip player_id='2823632' first='Kendall' last='Holliday'] – Curie (MVP) | 6'5”   The ultra-aggressive forward was in his element all game long. Holliday attacked the rim at will, finishing through contact and in transition with authority. He threw down multiple dunks, challenging anyone brave enough to meet him at the rim. His motor also translated to the glass, where he secured rebounds in traffic. Holliday's dominant performance earned him MVP honors in Game 2.   Stat line: 24 points, 13 rebounds   [player_tooltip player_id='1845356' first='Jaali' last='Love'] – Waukegan | 6'7”   A long, slender, and highly athletic forward, Love showcased his ability to impact the game in the open floor. He runs the court effortlessly and finished with several emphatic dunks, even through contact. Love also flashed some perimeter ability, knocking down an occasional outside shot. His versatility and athleticism continue to stand out.   Stat line: 12 points, 4 dunks   [player_tooltip player_id='2844402' first='Arnez' last='Jones'] – NLCP | 6'5”   One of the toughest matchup problems in the state, Jones brought an old-school mentality with a physical edge. He scored from all three levels—bullying defenders inside while also displaying touch and shot-making on the perimeter. At times, he simply looked like a man among boys.   Stat line: Team-high 22 points   [player_tooltip player_id='1552460' first='Bryce' last='Wegrzyn'] – Libertyville | 6'8”   One of the top post players in the state didn't see many touches—expected in an All-Star setting—but made the most of his opportunities. Wegrzyn displayed polished footwork and soft touch around the basket, scoring efficiently in the paint. He also stepped out and knocked down a corner three in the second half.   Stat line: 9 points   [player_tooltip player_id='2734439' first='Keith' last='Collins'] – Curie | 6'10”   A late-season riser, Collins has emerged as one of the better rim protectors and rebounders in the state. After a strong showing during the Chicago Public League playoffs, he carried that momentum into this event. Collins controlled the glass, altered shots, and added a dunk inside. His length and defensive presence will translate well to the next level.   [player_tooltip player_id='2372438' first='Jaiden' last='Simmons'] – Hope Academy | 6'5”   An undersized but explosive forward, Simmons made his impact felt beyond the stat sheet. He played with constant energy, flying around for blocks, finishing above the rim, and making hustle plays on both ends. While his scoring was limited, his activity level stood out.   Stat line: 6 points   [player_tooltip player_id='2376277' first='Prince' last='McCord'] – Kenwood | 6'7”   McCord delivered arguably the highlight of the event—a poster dunk over 6'11” Ty Crews (IN). Beyond the highlight, he was relentless on the offensive glass, using his length and instincts to create second-chance opportunities. He also showed good timing as a screener and rim runner.   Stat line: 7 points   [player_tooltip player_id='2927775' first='Cedrick' last='Carter'] – Intrinsic Charter | 6'9”   Carter didn't fully display his perimeter skill set in this format but made his presence known around the rim. He showed quick reactions on both ends, finishing with dunks and recording two blocks. He also cleaned up misses effectively and converted on a strong finish off a pass from [player_tooltip player_id='2540107' first='Jamir' last='Ratliff'].   Stat line: 7 points   Cam Anderson – Schaumburg | 6'5”   One of the more underrated performers, Anderson brought consistent effort and physicality. He thrived on the offensive glass, ran the floor hard in transition, and played with a nonstop motor. His quick second jump gave him an advantage around the rim, allowing him to outwork bigger defenders.   Stat line: 16 points, 8 rebounds

The last weekend in March brought me to Phillips High School for one final look at some of the top talent in Illinois' 2026 class. Across three All-Star matchups, high-level players from around the state took the floor. Here's a breakdown of the standout forwards and post players who made the biggest impact.