The DuKane conference has some historically good programs that have produced solid players.
Batavia has a strong junior class led by versatile 6-foot-6 combo forward Ethan Ivan. He’s a dangerous inside-out player that can put it on the floor or space the floor with his jump shot. He is bigger and quicker this season, on track to be a heavy target for D2, D3, and NAIA programs. Point guard Trent Tousana (5’11) is a sound ball-handler with vision that took on a bigger role this year. He has been using that shiftiness to create for himself this season, putting up some big scoring games. Batavia also has 6-foot-9 lefty Austin Ambrose, a big that is comfortable playing in the high post or on the block. He has a good hook over his right shoulder, soft touch, and promising shooting range.
St. Charles North is another team that is loaded in their 2022 class. Big wing Ethan Marlowe has developed into one of the most gifted players in the area using his crisp footwork and 6-foot-8 size to score in traffic. He was primarily a perimeter shooter as a sophomore, but has been more impactful in the post and attacking closeouts. Marlowe is a Division-1 talent that will get offers once coaches can see him in person. Max Love is a well-rounded 6-foot-4 wing who can handle the ball, shoot off the catch, and defend multiple spots. He does a nice job using his strength to get to the rim and rebound on both ends. Jude Love is another 6-foot-4 that has a rugged, tough play style. With a nonstop motor, he is an ideal high-energy defender that is a terrific rebounder for his position.
Wheaton Warrenville South, the DuKane champion this year, has a number of football recruits who led them in Parker Brown and Jaylen Brown. 6-foot-4 junior Tyler Fawcett should take a good leap next year. For Wheaton North, 2021 Connor Haake is a knockdown shooter with a good frame that should translate to college.
Geneva’s senior duo of Nathan Valentine (Illinois Wesleyan) and Dylan Fuzak (Indiana Tech) is one of the most underappreciated combos in the suburbs. Valentine can pull up at any moment and had some three-point shooting displays this year. His game should fit in perfectly at Wesleyan. Fuzak is the modern stretch five at 6-foot-9 with mobility and an easy outside stroke. 2022 Chris Suger is an intriguing wing at around 6-foot-7, capable of slashing to the rim and flashing a smooth offensive game. Look for him to be one of the best players in the DuKane next year.
Jacob Bonnema is a productive unsigned senior for Glenbard North that has the height and shooting range to play at the next level. At 6-foot-5, he has good positional strength to defend multiple positions. 2022 guard Payton Bowser should have a nice summer attracting Division 3 interest as a 6-foot-2 scoring guard that can make plays off the bounce. JJ Hernandez didn’t play varsity this year, but he is one of the high-upside freshmen in the state. Long and athletic, Hernandez is an elite defender even at a young age. But his passing vision and ball-handling as a 6-foot-4 guard stand out. He is one to watch for years to come in the DuKane.
2022 guard Sebastian Blachut is an explosive guard for Lake Park. Despite being only 6-foot-1, he can finish above the rim easily. His mid-range game is solid as well, able to use that leaping ability to elevate over defenders. His backcourt mate, 6-foot point guard Vito LaGioia, is a score-first guard that has the ability to score from three levels.