We are looking at some strong guards in the 2021 class that have college-level physicality.
Jalen Butler (6-5 SG, Niles North)
Butler should be a popular name over the next few months. A big wing that possesses good athleticism, Butler is a defensive stalwart. He can defend five positions in high school with his quickness, strength, and activity. Spot up threes and direct drives are where he does a lot of his work, but he will show more creativity off the dribble as a senior. Butler has an offer from UIC and is going to have a list of D1 football offers as well.
Jeffery Grace (6-3 PG, York)
A physically strong guard, Grace is a tough two-way player. At any moment, Grace is looking to beat his defender off the dribble and get to the rim. He is a very solid finisher with the body control to score through contact. When he does get cut off, Grace will make the necessary passes. For a 6-foot-3 guard, he can defend either backcourt spot at a high level. Governor’s State has offered.
Cade Hardtke (6-1 PG, Glenbard South)
Another guard that will have a chance to play college football, Hardtke brings that toughness to the court. He can play both guard spots, but has the offensive game of a true point guard. Against pressure, Hardtke can get to his spots or beat overaggressive defenders to the basket. He is a sound decision maker with a three-point shot that he can spray when given time. Hardtke has a lot of the intangibles of a college point guard.
Rashard Harris (6-4 SG, Kankakee)
At 6-foot-4, Harris has the size and skills to play all three spots on the perimeter. Playing point guard for Kankakee, he is a big mismatch with his playmaking and downhill driving. There aren’t a lot of players with his build that can go coast to coast off of a defensive rebound. Harris is a unique talent that plays with a chip on his shoulder.
Landon Zurleine (6-4 SG, Fairfield)
Zurleine is a rangy wing that puts up points in a variety of ways. He has a high-arcing shot that comes out nicely from mid-range or from three. Teams will focus on taking away his outside shot, so his ability to use his length on penetration will be key. Quincy has offered Zurleine so far.