Standouts That We Saw At The Riverside Brookfield Live Event: Part 3

We were out at Riverside Brookfield all weekend for a loaded, well-run event during June’s first live period. Of the games that we saw, here are some of the standouts. We are releasing over 100 evaluations from the weekend, but will space them out over a few different posts to avoid too much scrolling.

Jake Nawrot | 6’5 SG | Hersey | 2027

Nawrot delivered a gritty showing for Hersey. The Kentucky quarterback commit consistently impacted the game through toughness, intelligence, and effort. He was outstanding on the glass, battled through contact, and routinely came up with 50/50 balls in traffic.

Nawrot finished effectively around the basket, scored on quick moves and dump-offs, and showed impressive footwork as an interior scorer. He also displayed strong passing instincts, got to the free-throw line frequently, and showed solid shooting mechanics from the perimeter. His motor, feel, and willingness to do whatever was needed stood out throughout the game. He has the talent on the court of a scholarship hoops prospects as well.

Tristan Trotter | 6’4 SG/SF | Hersey | 2027

Trotter put together a steady and productive performance by impacting the game in several different areas. He shot the ball well from beyond the arc and consistently looked comfortable spacing the floor as a perimeter option. His ability to knock down open shots forced defenses to account for him and created additional spacing for his teammates.

Beyond his shooting, Trotter showed good instincts as an off-ball mover, consistently finding openings and positioning himself effectively within the offense. He also rebounded his position well and used his size and frame to compete on both ends of the floor. I would expect Trotter to see some D3 interest after his performance this weekend.

Jayden Dozie | 5’11 PG | Hoffman Estates | 2028

Dozie was one of the more explosive offensive guards in attendance and consistently found ways to create points. He showcased impressive shot-making ability, knocking down multiple three-pointers both off the catch and off the dribble. His confidence as a scorer and willingness to take difficult shots stood out throughout the game.

With the ball in his hands, Dozie displayed a tight handle and exceptional ability to change directions, allowing him to create separation and attack defenders in space. He routinely penetrated tight gaps and found creative ways to finish once he got into the paint. His wiggle and shot creation is advanced for a rising junior.

Cam James | 6’4 SF | Hoffman Estates | 2027

James showcased a strong blend of physicality and skill that allowed him to consistently impact the game offensively. He played through contact exceptionally well, absorbing bumps without losing balance and finishing difficult plays around the basket. His strength and body control were evident whenever he attacked the rim.

A natural lefty, James was particularly effective driving to his strong hand and showed soft touch on mid-range jumpers when defenders cut off driving lanes. He also flashed the ability to extend his range beyond the arc and knock down perimeter shots. On the glass, he was active pursuing offensive rebounds and creating second-chance opportunities.

Elijah Shim | 6’9 PF | Kenwood | 2028

Shim possesses an impressive combination of size, length, and mobility that immediately stands out. Despite standing 6’9”, he moves exceptionally well and uses his length to impact plays around the basket. He consistently protected the rim, blocked shots, and finished over defenders with relative ease.

He also proved to be an explosive rebounder who plays above the rim and secures boards outside of his area. While continued strength development will be important as he matures, his physical tools and athletic profile give him significant long-term upside. His ceiling remains very high as he continues to develop.

Damari Stephens | 6’4 SG | Kenwood | 2027

Stephens showcased one of the more polished downhill games in attendance. He played with excellent pace and composure, never appearing rushed despite regularly facing defensive pressure. His ability to control tempo and create quality shots stood out throughout the event.

A true attacker, Stephens consistently got to his spots and scored from beyond the arc, in the mid-range, and at the rim. He also used his size and strength effectively to draw contact and earn trips to the free-throw line. In isolation situations, he demonstrated the ability to create offense against virtually any defender, making him one of the more difficult covers at the event. It makes sense why several Division 1 programs have already identified him as a target.

Cam Scroggins | 6’5 SF | Lake Forest | 2028

Scroggins continues to trend upward physically and showed noticeable growth in both size and strength. He rebounded the ball more effectively and demonstrated continued progress as an all-around player. His physical development remains encouraging.

He also showed the ability to knock down perimeter shots and impact the game from the wing. Given his continued growth and athletic pedigree, his long-term ceiling remains very high.

Rory Haas | 6’7 PF | Lake Forest | 2027

Haas possesses excellent size for a modern forward and continues to add strength to his frame. He showed comfort spacing the floor and consistently knocked down perimeter shots throughout the event. His shooting ability remains one of his most valuable tools.

He also demonstrated some handling ability and moved well for his size, allowing him to impact the game in multiple ways. His blend of size, shooting, and versatility continues to make him an intriguing frontcourt prospect, particularly to high academic programs.

Jeremiah Echols | 6’0 PG | Leo |

Echols showcased a smooth offensive game and played with confidence throughout the contest. He attacked off the dribble effectively, using good tempo and body control to create opportunities for himself. The wiry guard also excelled in transition, where he consistently pushed the pace and created advantages before defenses could get organized.

He demonstrated the ability to finish with either hand and mixed in a quality pull-up game when defenders tried to cut off driving lanes. His confidence and comfort with the ball stood out, and he consistently looked capable of generating offense when his team needed a play.

Elon Henderson | 6’8 PF | Leo | 2029

Henderson was one of the more intriguing long-term prospects in attendance thanks to his size, athleticism, and developing skill set. The 6’8” forward knocked down multiple three-pointers and showed comfort spacing the floor, while also converting interior opportunities on dump-offs and finishes around the basket.

With legit size, Henderson used his length well to contest shots and impact plays around the rim. He also ran the floor extremely well and delivered one of the more memorable plays of the day with a powerful transition dunk. His upside remains significant, and he continues to show flashes of a highly projectable modern forward.

Luke Alvarez | 6’1 PG/SG | Loyola Academy | 2027

Alvarez put together a strong performance by consistently creating offense without needing the ball in his hands for extended stretches. He knocked down multiple three-pointers and showed why he is such a dangerous perimeter shooter, doing an excellent job working off movement and finding open windows within the flow of the offense. He also cut well off the ball and remained active throughout possessions.

When defenders closed out aggressively, Alvarez showed a willingness to attack gaps and keep the offense moving. Defensively, he competed at a high level, battled for loose balls, and brought consistent energy on that end of the floor. His combination of shooting ability, activity, and competitiveness allowed him to impact the game in a variety of ways.

Landon Reiner | 6’0 PG/SG | Loyola Academy | 2028

Reiner showcased a polished offensive game and consistently made winning plays throughout the contest. He shot the ball well from beyond the arc and displayed patience as a shooter, allowing opportunities to develop before quickly getting into his release. He also moved well without the basketball and found ways to stay involved offensively.

With the ball in his hands, Reiner was creative and composed, using pace effectively to keep defenders off balance. He showed the ability to change speeds, create separation, and make sound decisions as a playmaker. His feel for the game and overall skill level continue to stand out for a young guard.

Grant Smith | 6’6 SG | Lyons Township | 2028

Smith continued to show why he is regarded as one of the more promising prospects in the 2028 class. He attacked the basket with physicality, embraced ball-handling responsibilities against defensive pressure, and consistently played through contact. The star sophomore also knocked down perimeter shots and displayed a clean, repeatable shooting motion.

I continue to be impressed with his long-term defensive ability. Smith moved well laterally, contested shots effectively, and used his athleticism to impact plays against high-level wings. He elevated for a few powerful dunks that showcased his explosiveness in traffic. His combination of size, athleticism, shooting ability, and versatility gives him considerable long-term upside.

Timmy Sloan | 6’5 PG | Lyons Township | 2027

Sloan continues to impress with his combination of size, feel, and versatility at the guard position. He showcased excellent vision as a passer and consistently created opportunities for teammates with his ability to read the floor. His decision-making and overall feel for the game stood out throughout the event.

He also shot the ball well off the catch and looked increasingly consistent with his jump shot mechanics. Sloan used aggressive drives to generate offense, finishing at the rim while also creating open looks for teammates. Defensively, he used his length effectively and once again proved to be a plus defender. His leadership and ability to step up in important moments was showcased. I can imagine that ample Division 1 and Division 2 coaches liked what they saw this weekend.

Kendall Meyers | 6’5” SG/SF | Marist | 2027

Meyers put together one of the more complete wing performances of the weekend, impacting the game in virtually every phase. The 6-foot-5 wing played with a physical, attacking mindset and consistently put pressure on the defense whenever he had opportunities to get downhill. His finishing ability stood out, as he routinely converted plays through contact and showed excellent body control around the basket.

Meyers demonstrated strong overall feel for the game by making the extra pass and keeping the ball moving within the offense. Defensively, he brought toughness and versatility, using his frame and physicality to guard multiple positions and make life difficult for opposing players. He also stepped confidently into open three-point opportunities and showed the ball skills necessary to create offense when needed. Meyers continues to establish himself as one of the more intriguing wings in the 2027 class, adding another Division 1 offer this weekend.

DK Heard | 6’5 SG | Mount Carmel | 2029

Heard was one of the most physically gifted players in attendance and consistently impacted the game through his athleticism and motor. He may have been the best rebounder in the gym regardless of position, attacking the glass relentlessly and routinely winning second-chance opportunities. His second jump ability allowed him to secure rebounds that many players could not reach.

Heard attacked from the wing, got to the basket effectively, and spent stretches operating out of the post. He played with tremendous energy throughout the game and consistently found ways to impact possessions. His natural tools and long-term upside are difficult to ignore. A true, early-stage high-major prospect who had some Power 5 coaches in attendance to watch him.

Logan Wessel | 6’5 SG | Mount Carmel | 2027

Wessel showcased a well-rounded game built around shooting, effort, and competitiveness. He consistently spaced the floor and proved capable of knocking down perimeter shots at volume. His combination of size, length, and shooting ability creates obvious value on the wing.

The always-steady Wessel contributed in a variety of ways. He defended with purpose, rebounded his position, moved effectively without the basketball, and consistently made sound passing reads. His willingness to compete and do the little things helped him impact the game well beyond his scoring production. Wessel is a winning player with the academics and two-way balance to play at scholarship-level programs or premier high-academic D3s.

Ronald Johnson | 6’3 PG | Mount Carmel | 2029

Johnson was one of the most impressive young guards in attendance due to his defensive intensity and overall feel for the game. He consistently applied pressure at the point of attack and made second and third efforts to disrupt possessions. His ability to generate deflections, steals, and loose-ball opportunities stood out throughout the contest.

I was highly impressed with his strong vision and passing ability while making quality decisions with the basketball. He attacked downhill effectively and also flashed shooting potential with solid mechanics and confidence. His energy, competitiveness, and basketball IQ consistently impacted winning.

Marshaun Thornton | 6’2 SG | Mount Carmel | 2028

Thornton continued Mount Carmel’s trend of strong perimeter defenders, bringing relentless effort and toughness on that end of the floor. He consistently chased plays, competed through screens, and refused to give up on possessions. His athletic profile, which has already attracted elite Division I football attention, was evident throughout the game.

Much more than just a defensive standout, Thornton ran the floor hard in transition and knocked down multiple three-pointers while moving without the basketball. During the weekend, he threw down some powerful dunks on the break. His combination of athleticism, defensive effort, and developing perimeter shooting gives him value on both ends.

Cole Kelly | 6’6 SG | Neuqua Valley | 2028

Kelly once again showed why he is regarded as one of the top prospects in Illinois regardless of class. He has comfortably worked as a guard for Neuqua, looking advanced as a ball screen operator, particularly when he was manuevering to his left hand. Kelly also showed a polished feel for reading the back level of the defense and peppered the ball out to shooters all day.

He demonstrated versatility as a shot-maker as well, getting some separation for jumpers and using jabs and shot fakes to set himself up for drives. Despite playing on the perimeter offensively, Kelly was scrapping for rebounds and battled defensively for position effectively. His ability to influence winning on both ends at a high level continues to separate him from his peers. Kelly remains one of the most complete players in the state and across the country.

Mason Martin | 6’5 SG | Neuqua Valley | 2027

Martin’s shooting ability was the clear standout aspect of his game. He consistently spaced the floor and showed range and confidence as a perimeter shooter, knocking down shots both in rhythm and under defensive pressure. He remains a reliable floor-spacer who forces defenses to account for him at all times.

He also showed the ability to attack closeouts in straight lines and make simple plays when defenders ran him off the three-point line. Defensively, his size allowed him to guard multiple positions while maintaining strong energy throughout the game. His perimeter shooting continues to define his value.

Carter Coviello | 6’0 PG | Neuqua Valley | 2027

Coviello provided steady and reliable play at the point guard position throughout the game. He handled pressure well, organized the offense, and consistently made sound decisions as a facilitator. He also kept the ball moving and showed a willingness to involve teammates in advantageous positions.

He knocked down perimeter shots when opportunities presented themselves and competed well defensively on the ball. He embraced challenging assignments and maintained consistency on both ends. His shooting, decision-making, and toughness make him a dependable backcourt option.

Luke Balgro | 6’3 SG/SF | Neuqua Valley | 2027

Balgro delivered another strong all-around performance by contributing in multiple areas of the game. He showed good feel as a connector, consistently made the right reads, and played within the flow of the offense. He also knocked down perimeter shots and showed comfort attacking closeouts off the bounce.

He competed well while guarding multiple spots and showed the ability to guard multiple perimeter positions. His versatility allowed him to impact the game without needing high usage. His combination of IQ, adaptability, and steady production continues to stand out.

Matthew Logue | 6’5 PF | New Trier | 2027

Logue’s activity level and motor consistently stood out throughout the game. He covered ground well on the glass and routinely rebounded balls outside of his immediate area. His length allowed him to challenge shots effectively while also high-pointing rebounds in traffic. Logue is an elite defender who looks like a kid who can be a high-level, switchable piece at the college level.

Offensively, Logue ran the floor hard, finished through contact, and showed a strong understanding of how to seal defenders around the basket. He converted multiple interior scoring opportunities and punctuated his performance with a dunk. His energy, rebounding, and physicality made him one of the more impactful frontcourt players on the floor.

Elton Jaegerskog | 6’4 SG | New Trier | 2027

Jaegerskog made his presence felt with his relentless energy and defensive commitment. He drew a difficult assignment defensively and consistently competed against one of the top guards in attendance, showing toughness, discipline, and a willingness to embrace challenges. His effort level never wavered throughout the game.

Offensively, Jaegerskog ran the floor hard, finished through traffic, and did an excellent job moving without the basketball. He consistently found openings as a cutter and brought energy to every possession. Throughout the game, he hit a jumper and was shot-ready at all times. It was his defensive intensity, motor, and off-ball activity that stood out most.

Denymn Wallace | 6’8 PF | New Trier | 2029

Wallace was one of the more intriguing long-term prospects in attendance and consistently created matchup problems with his combination of size, strength, and skill. The 6-foot-8 forward already possesses an advanced frame for a sophomore, has magnetic hands, and moves exceptionally well for a player his size. He showed comfort handling the ball in space, allowing him to initiate offense and attack defenders in ways that are uncommon for young frontcourt players.

Wallace used his physicality effectively, creating separation with subtle bumps and finishing through contact with authority. He played with an edge that stood out, while also displaying an increasingly polished skill set. He knocked down perimeter shots with sound mechanics and has legitimate three-point range, while also delivering several impressive passes on the move. Defensively, Wallace showed the versatility to switch onto wings while also battling with bigger players around the basket. His combination of size, mobility, physicality, and developing skill set makes him one of the more promising frontcourt prospects in the 2029 class.

Collin Tobin | 6’3 PG/SG | Niles North | 2027

Tobin showcased a polished offensive game and looked every bit like a player capable of producing at the next level. He exploded for a 20-point first half and consistently demonstrated his ability to take over offensively. His strong frame allows him to absorb contact, while his size and skill make him difficult to contain.

He consistently got to his spots, handled defensive pressure well, and knocked down jump shots over defenders with confidence. Tobin also showed the ability to break defenders down off the bounce and finish at the rim, making him a legitimate three-level scoring threat. He played with good pace and composure throughout the game, and continued growth as a quick decision-maker will continue to elevate his offensive impact even further. Tobin was dominant this weekend.

Leave a Reply

Discover more from Illinois Hoop Prospects

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading