Chi-Town Tip Off: Steve's 16U Sunday Standouts

Sunday at the Chi-Town Tip-Off belonged to the Class of 2028, as the 16U division showcased a wave of emerging talent in the building. From explosive scoring outings to versatile, two-way production, this group made a strong statement heading into the spring. Here's a look at the top performers and key contributors from Sunday's action.   [player_tooltip player_id='2531979' first='CJ' last='Pittman'] – [program_tooltip program_id='2076459' first='Breakaway' last=''] (Payton) | 2028   The crafty guard found his rhythm and led [program_tooltip program_id='2076459' first='Breakaway' last=''] with 15 points, doing much of his damage early. Pittman attacked the lane with confidence, converting tough finishes and scoring 11 points in the first half. After a slower start to the weekend, he bounced back in a big way to close strong.   [player_tooltip player_id='2766818' first='Dontae' last='Barnes'] – We Different (Evansville Bosse) | 2028   Barnes delivered one of the most electric scoring performances of the weekend. The dynamic guard displayed a polished offensive package, knocking down floaters and mid-range shots—but it was his perimeter shooting that took over. He erupted for 26 points with six threes against [program_tooltip program_id='2078449' first='Meanstreets' last=''], then followed with a 31-point explosion featuring nine triples versus the IL Bears. Barnes firmly established himself as one of the top scoring threats in the class.   [player_tooltip player_id='3454823' first='Landon' last='Ray'] – Midwest Bobcats (St. Viator) | 2028   At 6'5, Ray continues to impress with his versatility as a wing/stretch forward. He impacted the game in multiple areas—scoring, rebounding, passing, and rim protection. Ray showed quick post moves, ran the floor well, and created opportunities both for himself and teammates. He also stepped out to hit a pair of threes, finishing with 24 points and 12 rebounds in a dominant all-around showing.   [player_tooltip player_id='2395586' first='Amir' last='Beasley'] – [program_tooltip program_id='2078449' first='Meanstreets' last=''] (Danville) | 2028   Beasley is an upside prospect who continues to trend upward. The uber-athletic forward made his presence felt with energy and activity on both ends. His length and quickness stood out—whether attacking the glass, running the floor, or closing out defensively. Beasley's motor and tools make him a name to track closely moving forward.   [player_tooltip player_id='2832405' first='JJ' last='Gwaltney'] – IL Bears (Herrin) | 2028   Gwaltney delivered in the clutch, stepping up in the Bears' final game with a huge shooting performance. The lefty wing buried five triples during a late-game rally to secure a win over We Different. His quick release made him difficult to contest, and he finished with a team-high 21 points.   Javion Hatton – [program_tooltip program_id='2828653' first='Greater' last='Purpose Athletics'] (Bloom) | 2028   A bouncy 6'5 forward, Hatton thrived in transition and around the rim. He showed strength finishing through contact and handled physical play well, even in traffic. With good hands and consistent production inside, Hatton also controlled the glass effectively.   [player_tooltip player_id='2823116' first='Derek' last='Brown'] – Geek Squad (Marian Catholic) | 2028   Brown turned in a strong showing with his ability to score in a variety of ways. The 6'1 guard displayed excellent body control and touch, finishing with either hand around the basket. He added transition buckets and a tough mid-range jumper, proving he can create and convert difficult looks.   [player_tooltip player_id='2845159' first='Krishna' last='Dacha'] – IL Future (Lane Tech) | 2028   Dacha continues to be a steady presence at the guard spot. He scored effectively off ball screens, navigating the lane with a shifty handle and finishing in multiple ways. His length also allows him to be an above-average passer. Dacha finished with 16 points in a solid outing.

Sunday at the Chi-Town Tip-Off belonged to the Class of 2028, as the 16U division showcased a wave of emerging talent in the building. From explosive scoring outings to versatile, two-way production, this group made a strong statement heading into the spring. Here's a look at the top performers and key contributors from Sunday's action.