Today we are highlighted the players who are off the board and have committed already.
Isaiah Barnes (6-5 SG, Simeon) – Committed to Michigan
We did a write-up on Barnes before he announced his commitment to Michigan last week. Few players saw their interest skyrocket after the season like the 6-foot-5 wing. Athleticism and potential stand out, even in the Big Ten. He is a slasher that can shoot off the dribble and finish above the rim. The next step is becoming consistently elite on both ends. The tools are there for Barnes to have a special season at Simeon and use that as a springboard to a promising career at the next level.
Ahamad Bynum (6-3 SG, Simeon) – Committed to DePaul
Bynum is a dog. He is an exciting open-court athlete that excels in transition with a pit bull mentality that allows him to take on bigger opponents on drives. More of a scoring guard, Bynum regularly breaks down defenses and knocks down jumpers off the bounce. He does a nice job of exploding on his pull-up while maintaining his balance, a trait that will be key in the Big East. He is a good playmaker that will find shooters and bigs when help defenders over pursue. Bynum will be the best guard in Chicago as a senior and will head to DePaul as a prized recruit ready to play immediately.
Conor Enright (6-2 PG, Mundelein) – Committed to Drake
Enright is an unshakeable lead guard that plays with a swagger. He’s not highly athletic for the position, but he is a skilled ball-handler that has a knack for beating defenders off the dribble. Enright can shoot it from three when given time but is more comfortable putting his head down and creating for himself or his teammates. He competes in every aspect of the game and will be heading to Drake after his senior season. Winning players find their way in a college rotation sooner rather than later, so look for Enright to make some noise in Des Moines.
Chris Hodges (6-8 PF, Schaumburg) – Committed to Wisconsin
Easily one of the best post prospects in the state, Hodges is an active paint presence that demands constant attention. He can score with his back to the basket but thrives as a rim runner that can create havoc on the offensive glass. With long arms and quick reflexes, he is an anchor on the defensive end. Hodges has more ball-handling skills than he shows and will continue to grow as a face-up scorer. He will have a chance to play early on for a Wisconsin team that will be graduating a lot of talent next year.
Bryce Hopkins (PF, Fenwick) – Committed to Louisville
Hopkins is a strong-bodied combo forward that is wired to score. He attacks well off the dribble and utilizes his size when he gets to the basket. Comfortable in catch-and-shoot situations, teams are punished for playing him as a driver. Though he’s not an overwhelming athlete, he is a constant mismatch with his perimeter skills and strength. He is an adept passer that you can play through at the high post. Hopkins continues to improve his body and athleticism, which should help him to contribute on both ends in the ACC. He will have a chance to be a McDonald’s All American with a big senior year and projects as a versatile face-up four at Louisville.
Louis Lesmond (6-5 SG, Notre Dame College Prep) – Committed to Harvard
Lesmond is a skilled perimeter scorer with good size at 6-foot-5. His footwork to create shots in space is impressive, utilizing a variety of moves to get to his jumper. With consistent range past the college line, Lesmond is a tough cover when you consider his ability to put the ball on the floor and finish against length. He is an excellent cutter that doesn’t let the ball stick. As Lesmond’s frame fills out, he should be a terrific scoring option in college. Committed to Harvard, Lesmond is going to be one of the top freshmen in the Ivy League.
Blake Peters (6-1 SG, Evanston) – Committed to Princeton
Throughout the state, there may not be a more productive deadeye shooter than Peters. He is a tremendous mover without the ball, sprinting in transition and running off screens to get open. He doesn’t need to dominate the ball to dominate the game and that’s rare these days. Defensively, he has good hands and is disciplined. At 6-foot-1, he’s not the biggest two-guard, but Peters is strong and plays to contact. He is a well-rounded player with a great feel for that game. Peters is going to be a knockdown shooter at Princeton. Another local player to keep an eye on in the Ivy League.