Chi-Town Tipoff: 17U and 16U Names That Popped

The Illinois high school basketball state tournament wrapped up just a few weeks ago, and now the focus shifts back to the grassroots scene with the first in-state circuit event. Bright and early Saturday morning, competition kicked off at the Chi-Town Tipoff at Wintrust Sports Complex in Bedford Park. The event not only showcased local talent stepping away from their high school teams, but also brought in prospects from out of state, adding another layer of excitement. Let's take a closer look at a handful of players from the 17U and 16U levels who stood out and raised the bar throughout the day.    Barnes' athleticism jumped out immediately and remained a constant throughout both games. A bouncy, high-motor guard, he thrived by pushing the pace, sharing the ball, and making the right reads on the move. He showed his scoring ability with a knockdown three and touch on his jumper, but his biggest impact came attacking the rim where he finished with acrobatic layups and elevated above defenders as an above-the-rim presence. He also contributed on the glass. An uber-athletic playmaker who played a key role in helping his WeDifferent 16U squad go 2-0 with both coming by 20-point victories.     Loew showed a steady, determined approach that allowed him to grow into the game as it progressed in a tight second matchup against [program_tooltip program_id='2076904' first='Chicago' last='Hoops'] 16U. He was effective getting downhill, using his body well to shield defenders and create driving lanes. Loew also showed patience as a ball handler, able to get to his spots, back down smaller defenders with dribble strength, and adjust mid-air to finish through traffic. He mixed in a capable pull-up game and played with composure in pressure moments, stepping up as the game wore on.     Etzel showed a composed, skilled approach in a physical matchup against Illinois Force 17U. He handled the ball with poise and looked comfortable operating in space, using a size-up to break down defenders before getting to his spots in the halfcourt. He played under control and made smart decisions with the ball, not forcing action and letting the game come to him. Defensively, his length stood out as he was able to contest and stay engaged without fouling, using his frame effectively to stay disruptive. A steady guard-forward who impacted the game on both ends with his feel and discipline.     Sanderlin stood out as the most athletic piece on the floor for Fueled By Faith 16U, impacting the game in a variety of ways. He showed a smooth euro step, including a strong sequence where he finished through contact with a scoop and-1. His length was noticeable, both as a finisher and on the glass, where he followed up misses and snagged rebounds in traffic. Offensively, he knocked down a wing three off the catch and showed the ability to rise up for a dunk. A versatile, high-upside prospect who can impact the game in multiple spots.     Briggs brought strong energy and confidence to the floor, especially in a tough first showing against WeDifferent 812 16U-1 out of Indiana. He played with pace in transition, looking to push the ball and keep the defense on its heels. Offensively, he knocked down multiple perimeter shots, connecting from the top, wing, and corner, showing comfort and consistency as three-point option. He also flashed good feel with a nice feed to a backdoor cutter. An active guard who competed and showed early signs of being a reliable threat.     Parker was the main offensive option in a high-tempo matchup against The Family 17U, keeping his team competitive down the stretch. He showed a versatile scoring package, knocking down pull-ups from mid-range and three, including a step-back corner three, while also getting to a fade in the mid-post. He played through contact well and consistently got quality looks even with a hand in his face. When pressured, he showed the ability to find teammates rather than force action. Big impact helping God's Gift going 2-1.

The Illinois high school basketball state tournament wrapped up just a few weeks ago, and now the focus shifts back to the grassroots scene with the first in-state circuit event. Bright and early Saturday morning, competition kicked off at the Chi-Town Tipoff at Wintrust Sports Complex in Bedford Park. The event not only showcased local talent stepping away from their high school teams, but also brought in prospects from out of state, adding another layer of excitement. Let's take a closer look at a handful of players from the 17U and 16U levels who stood out and raised the bar throughout the day.

Dontae Barnes

HEIGHT 5'10"

POS PG

CLASS 2028

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Dontae Barnes

State: Indiana

School: Evansville Bosse

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Highlights

Caden Loew

IL #282

SG/SF #75

HEIGHT 6'2"

POS SG/SF

CLASS 2028

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Caden Loew

State: Illinois

School: Effingham

Club: Illinois Mavericks Black

Loew showed a steady, determined approach that allowed him to grow into the game as it progressed in a tight second matchup against Chicago Hoops 16U. He was effective getting downhill, using his body well to shield defenders and create driving lanes. Loew also showed patience as a ball handler, able to get to his spots, back down smaller defenders with dribble strength, and adjust mid-air to finish through traffic. He mixed in a capable pull-up game and played with composure in pressure moments, stepping up as the game wore on.