Top 2028 Illinois Prospects Shine at Run N Slam

The annual Run N Slam event once again brought together some of the top grassroots talent in the Midwest regardless of Shoe affiliation or circuit you play on and Illinois' 2028 class did not disappoint. From explosive athletes to polished scorers and high-IQ playmakers, this group showcased depth, versatility, and serious upside. Here's a breakdown of the top Illinois sophomores who made noise over the weekend.   [program_tooltip program_id='2078449' first='Meanstreets' last=''] Trio Sets the Tone   [player_tooltip player_id='2538631' first='Grant' last='Smith'] | 6'5 | [program_tooltip program_id='2078449' first='Meanstreets' last='']   Smith continues to trend upward after a strong weekend performance. At 6'5, he brings excellent size and athleticism, thriving around the rim while also proving capable of scoring from all three levels. His explosiveness stands out immediately, and he pairs that with defensive versatility that allows him to guard multiple positions. A highly productive start to his season.   [player_tooltip player_id='2531962' first='Amir' last='Tucker'] | 6'1 | [program_tooltip program_id='2078449' first='Meanstreets' last='']   Tucker held his own while playing up a level, showing off his crafty handle and ability to control the pace. The ball is on a string with him, and he consistently created scoring opportunities at all three levels. His shot has good lift, and he plays with confidence whether attacking or pulling up.   [player_tooltip player_id='2194655' first='Braydon' last='Porter'] | 6'5 | [program_tooltip program_id='2078449' first='Meanstreets' last='']   Porter may have been one of the most physically imposing guards in attendance. An elite athlete with a strong frame, he thrives in transition and when attacking downhill. His ability to protect the rim as a guard, combined with highlight-level finishes—including lob dunks—makes him a high-ceiling prospect with major upside.       IL Wolves Bring Size, Strength, and Versatility   [player_tooltip player_id='2766431' first='Kyler' last='Payne'] | 6'7 | IL Wolves   Payne was a force all weekend. A physically dominant forward, he punished defenders in the paint with his strength and ability to finish through contact. He showed touch from the perimeter, hitting catch-and-shoot threes, while also overwhelming defenses on the block. His rebounding—especially on the offensive glass—created extra possessions, and he anchored the paint defensively with timely shot blocking. Simply put, Payne is a load to handle.   [player_tooltip player_id='2542412' first='Chase' last='Kasten'] | 6'5 | IL Wolves   Kasten's versatility stood out in a big way. Operating from the wing, he handled the ball in pick-and-roll situations, showing patience and the ability to turn the corner. He used his length effectively to finish at the rim and took advantage of mismatches by posting smaller defenders. His motor showed on both ends, highlighted by a chase-down block.   [player_tooltip player_id='2474926' first='Kayden' last='Turner'] | 6'4 | IL Wolves   Turner embraced the “glue guy” role and thrived. Making quick decisions off the catch, he attacked gaps efficiently and capitalized on defensive rotations. His ability to keep the ball moving while still being a scoring threat adds real value. Turner's versatility and feel make him an important piece for his squad.   [program_tooltip program_id='2076459' first='Breakaway' last=''] Prospects Continue to Impress   [player_tooltip player_id='2531981' first='Cole' last='Kelly'] | 6'7 | [program_tooltip program_id='2076459' first='Breakaway' last='']   Fresh off a strong showing at the Adidas circuit, Kelly carried that momentum into the weekend. His jumper is one of the smoothest in the class—quick, clean, and repeatable. He scored in a variety of ways, including attacking off the bounce and finishing through contact. Kelly's ability to play up and still produce at a high level speaks volumes, as he helped lead his team to a runner-up finish.   [player_tooltip player_id='2532003' first='Joey' last='Jakstys'] | 6'8 | [program_tooltip program_id='2076459' first='Breakaway' last='']   Jakstys showcased his offensive versatility, stretching the floor with multiple three-point makes while also battling inside. He runs the floor hard, rebounds at a high rate, and embraces physical play in the paint. His motor and willingness to do the dirty work stood out.   [player_tooltip player_id='2531979' first='CJ' last='Pittman'] | 6'1 | [program_tooltip program_id='2076459' first='Breakaway' last='']   Pittman brought steady production from the guard spot. A high-motor combo guard, he rebounded well for his position and consistently made the right play. His midrange game is polished, and he displayed soft touch from beyond the arc in a strong Saturday showing.   Zero Fears Guards Flash Potential   JJ Nash | 6'0 | Zero Fears   Nash used his length and slashing ability to create offense. He attacked the lane effectively and showed flashes of playmaking in the half court. With a projectable frame and defensive upside, Nash is a name to track as he continues to develop.   Jordan Joiner | 6'3 | Zero Fears   Joiner is a shooter who can heat up quickly. With good size for a guard, he excels in catch-and-shoot situations and can create space for pull-ups when needed. Once he sees one go down, his confidence and production spike.   [player_tooltip player_id='2834186' first='Nigel' last='Moore'] | 5'11 | Zero Fears   Moore was one of the most dynamic playmakers in the gym. A true floor general, he elevated his teammates with sharp decision-making and creative passing. Whether threading passes through tight windows or attacking the paint and finishing with control, Moore consistently put pressure on the defense. His ability to read pick-and-roll situations stood out.           DJ Laye | 6'0 | Renegades   Laye controlled the tempo with poise. A shifty guard with tight handles, he pushed the pace and created scoring chances off turnovers. His vision and ability to penetrate the defense made him a constant threat.   [player_tooltip player_id='2194657' first='Josiah' last='Hall'] | 6'4 | Renegades   Hall impressed with his size, skill, and basketball IQ. A strong-bodied wing, he showed deep shooting range while also using his length to attack the lane. His smooth handle and ability to read the game make him an intriguing prospect moving forward.

The annual Run N Slam event once again brought together some of the top grassroots talent in the Midwest regardless of Shoe affiliation or circuit you play on and Illinois' 2028 class did not disappoint. From explosive athletes to polished scorers and high-IQ playmakers, this group showcased depth, versatility, and serious upside. Here's a breakdown of the top Illinois sophomores who made noise over the weekend.