MAX FACTOR: AREA JUNIORS ARE A FORCE
NATIONALLY RANKED CHRISTIE LEADS THE LIST OF TOP PLAYERS IN THE CLASS OF 2021, FOLLOWED BY HOPKINS AND BYNUM
There is a clear uptick in talent in the Class of 2021 in Illinois. This year’s junior class boasts more Division I prospects for college coaches to evaluate over the next 12 months than there has been in the last couple of years. While the depth of talent is better, it’s the top of the class, where several bona fide high-major prospects head the list, that has drawn the highest praise.
Here is a look at the City⁄Suburban Hoops Report’s top 10 prospects in the Class of 2021 as we head into the 2019-20 season.
1. Max Christie, 6-6, Rolling Meadows
The best prospect in the state has the ideal blend of being a productive star with a ceiling he hasn’t come close to reaching. Christie continues to show steady improvement in all areas of his game while possessing such an intriguing upside as he physically matures. The size, length, skill and versatility are what make Christie a consensus top-20 prospect in the country.
2. Bryce Hopkins, 6-6, Fenwick
Hopkins has been a fixture up at the top of the Hoops Report rankings and now sports an endless list of high-major offers as he finally gets some much-deserved national attention. The highly-skilled, ultraproductive hybrid forward has a big body and can play a number of positions. He can score in the post, bully his way to the basket as a slasher or create for others with his skill and natural feel.
3. Ahamad Bynum, 6-1, Simeon
A dynamic scoring guard, Bynum has the explosiveness and tools to become a versatile offensive weapon. Bynum is a dangerous but streaky scorer. He plays with athleticism, speed and aggression. Developing his ability to make plays for teammates and improved decision-making is the next step in his progression as a player.
4. Chris Hodges, 6-8, Schaumburg
The Wisconsin recruit continues to improve and has become more impactful. He is blessed with good size and a solid frame. The technique and consistency will come as there is a foundation offensively that Hodges continues to build on. Hodges has a tenacity and nose for the ball that will serve him well now and in the future. His face-up ability and perimeter shot continue to get better and better.
5. Louis Lesmond, 6-5, Notre Dame
An offseason riser in rankings and reputation following his transfer from Evanston. There is a sound skill level and quality basketball understanding that goes right with some very good physical tools and attributes. Lesmond’s a solid shooter with range who must become more consistent. Overall, he’s a well-rounded wing who looks the part and will break out this season.
6. John Poulakidas, 6-5, Neuqua Valley
The ultimate shot-making perimeter player with an advanced and creative midrange game to go with being a spread-the-floor three-point shooting threat. What Poulakidas lacks in ideal athleticism he makes up for with craftiness and smarts. With high academics to boot, Poulakidas is a hot commodity with a wide range of offers and interest.
A strong, compact force at point guard. An outstanding two-sport athlete who has been extremely productive at the varsity level in his two seasons. Sayles is a heady point guard who plays with poise, maturity and exhibits ideal leadership. He continues to show an improved perimeter jumper.
A promising prospect who is blessed with a high ceiling and a terrific combination of size and skill on the perimeter. Now can he tap into that upside on a regular basis? The versatile Barnes can play with the ball in his hands and has range out to the three-point line. 9. Ola Ajiboye, 6-7, Von Steuben
Ajiboye sneaks into the top 10 based on what he’s about to become. Right now he’s an intriguing long-term prospect who has grown to 6-7 (and still growing) and showcases a budding package of various basketball attributes. In addition to being active and disruptive defensively, he runs the floor, shows a soft touch and will surprise you with his face-up ability and developing range.
10. Grant Newell, 6-7, Young
A still under-the-radar name on the prospect list, this intriguing junior is set to blossom. Newell has grown to 6-7 and his offensive repertoire is emerging. Already a capable face-up shooter at his size with a high release, his impact around the basket will only improve as he continues to physically mature and add strength. ✶