The focus today is on 2021 forwards that can play multiple positions and use their length to their advantage.
Oscar Antanaitis (6-7 PF, Hinsdale Central)
Antanaitis is a long forward that makes his presence felt on the defensive end and on the backboards. He moves well for a 6-foot-7 player, changing ends well and helping quickly from block to block. The shot-blocking ability is there despite lacking elite size, using good timing to contest shots. Offensively, he is going to be a rim to rim sprinter that is used most often as a screen outlet or paint finisher.
Nathan Hall (6-7 PF, Collinsville)
This past year was a breakout season for Hall. The long, mobile forward runs in transition like a wing. His outside touch is promising, with a quick release that comes out of his hands nicely. If you leave him open, he will not hesitate to make defenders pay from beyond the arc. Stretch four might be his ideal college position, but Hall can really pass the ball from the perimeter. He is going to be a good high post player regardless of what position he plays. Governor’s State has offered so far.
Aaron McQueen (6-5 SF, Lane Tech)
McQueen is a versatile wing player that can play the two through four. He handles the ball well and has the body to play big. His jump shot is slow, but he can hit pull-ups and spot-ups with time. McQueen may be able to differentiate himself as a defender. He is very long and strong, capable of standing up scorers at multiple positions. Transition is his best avenue for scoring, but he shows promise as a post up scorer and isolation driver.
Jack Mielke (6-7 SF, Downers Grove North)
Mielke is one of the top shooters at his size in the class. He can light it up from the outside in transition or off of ball rotations in the half court. A true combo forward, he possesses enough strength and athleticism to play either forward spot at the college level. Mielke plays with a toughness that will allow him to remain an effective rebounder even against bigger opponents. He has continued to work on his body and has a lot of intangibles that college coaches covet. Multiple Division 2 schools have offered.
Tyler Van Eekeren (6-5 SF, Benet)
Van Eekeren is a very well-rounded player that does a little bit of everything. His size is ideal at 6-foot-5, he defends on the perimeter, and can slash to the rim effectively. When his feet are set, he is an improving outside shooter. There is a lot to like about his understanding of spacing and cutting as well. He doesn’t force the issue and is a ball mover in the offense. He could find a home at a solid D3 school.