With over 100 teams, the Ridgewood Live Event was a terrific end to the summer. We wanted to send a shoutout to Coach Mroz for a well-run event and the hospitality. Of the games that we saw at Ridgewood, here are some of the standouts. Similar to the Riverside Brookfield’s event, we will be periodically releasing a set of evaluations.

Homewood-Flossmoor

Darrius Hawkins | 5’10 PG | Homewood-Flossmoor | 2028

Hawkins showcased one of the most advanced skill sets among the younger guards on the weekend. The junior PG consistently created advantages with an elite handle and the ability to change directions without losing speed. He played with impressive poise throughout the game and rarely looked rushed despite handling significant offensive responsibilities.

Offensively, Hawkins regularly got into the paint, where he created scoring opportunities for both himself and his teammates. He also demonstrated advanced shot-creation ability, generating plenty of separation for mid-range jumpers, losing defenders with snatch moves, and converting difficult looks off the bounce. There is a pride about him defensively that is necessary and great to see for an undersized guard, fitting that pitbull mold as a point-of-attack defender.

Lyons Township

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

Sloan’s feel for the game is a breath of fresh air at the point guard spot in today’s environment. He consistently made quality decisions with the ball and excelled in the open floor, where his vision and passing ability allowed him to create easy opportunities for teammates. He played with increased aggressiveness throughout the game and was assertive attacking the rim when gaps opened up.

Sloan provided strong energy and consistently pressured opposing ball handlers, able to give a bit of room while still shading the vision and comfort of other guards. His size, playmaking ability, and two-way impact continue to make him one of the more unique guard prospects in the area.

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

Smith once again looked every bit the part of one of the premier prospects in Illinois’ 2028 class. The athletic, 6-foot-6 wing consistently put pressure on the defense with his ability to get downhill and attack the basket with force and fluid ability. His combination of size, explosiveness, and body control made him extremely difficult to contain in space.

What separates Smith is his offensive versatility. He knocked down perimeter shots, created offense from the mid-range, and elevated over smaller defenders when attacking the basket. His athleticism showed up on both ends of the floor, and he consistently played with the activity and confidence that you’d expect from a Division 1 prospect. The arrow continues to point up for Smith.

West Aurora

Travis Brown | 6’1 PG | West Aurora | 2027

Brown delivered another highly productive performance and was one of the most explosive guards in attendance. He consistently attacked the rim and put pressure on opposing defenses with his speed and aggressiveness. He was particularly effective in transition, where he turned defensive stops into easy offense and finished several possessions with impressive dunks.

Brown’s activity level stood out throughout the game as a defensive disruptor. He generated turnovers with active hands, affected passing lanes, and consistently created opportunities for his team to get out and run. While much of his production came from attacking downhill, his ability to change the pace of the game with his athleticism and energy made him a major factor throughout the contest. A no-doubt scholarship-level guard.

Deerfield

Tommy Donahue | 6’4 PG/SG | Deerfield | 2027

Donahue impressed this weekend, not only because of his individual production, but with the leadership qualities he displayed throughout the event. In a weekend where there were a slew of college coaches in attendance for him in particular, the rising senior consistently encouraged his teammates, maintained positive body language, and looked fully invested in helping bring along the whole team, even when shots weren’t falling. He looked like a kid who was not just tasked with being a leader, but was actively trying to excel in that new role.

On the court, Donahue knocked down multiple threes, made difficult shots off the dribble, and consistently found ways to score despite facing tight defensive pressure and even being face-guarded for stretches. His high release point allows him to get shots off over contests, and he remained calm and confident regardless of defensive attention. Donahue also competed at a high level on the other end, compiling blocks, deflections, and extra effort plays throughout the weekend. His perimeter scoring ability is a differentiator, but the toughness, leadership, and intangibles made for another impressive showing from one of the top stock-risers of June.

Downers Grove North

Owen O’Reilly | 6’2 SG | Downers Grove North | 2027

O’Reilly once again showcased the qualities that make him such an effective complementary piece. He shot the ball well from the perimeter and consistently remained ready to capitalize on scoring opportunities when they presented themselves. His ability to space the floor continues to be a valuable weapon.

Beyond the shooting, O’Reilly impacted the game with his toughness and effort. He cut hard without the basketball, maintained a high activity level throughout the contest, and consistently played with energy on both ends of the floor. His willingness to do the little things continues to help him contribute to winning basketball.

New Trier

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

Logue turned in one of the strongest defensive performances of the event and continues to establish himself as one of the more impactful two-way forwards in the area. The long-armed forward switched across multiple positions, disrupted offensive actions, and consistently made life difficult for opposing players. There was never a dull moment in the help side, whether he was calling out actions, sprinting over to the help to send a shot to the bleachers, or X-ing out to close out to a shooter. His activity level stood out throughout the game.

The same goes for his offensive game, which has blossomed nicely over the last few months. Logue ran the floor hard, finished through contact, and consistently found ways to impact the game without needing plays called for him. He was highly effective as a cutter and baseline mover, scoring on several timely duck-ins and hard cuts. His motor never seemed to slow down, and his ability to impact winning in multiple ways remains a major strength that will travel.

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

Jaegerskog brought toughness, physicality, and relentless effort to the floor throughout the game. A big guard/wing, he was at his best attacking downhill, where he used his strong frame to absorb contact and finish through defenders for several and-ones and tough layups in the paint. He played aggressively and worked hard to generate quality scoring opportunities, both as an on-ball attacker and off-ball cutter and spacer.

Defensively, Jaegerskog’s motor stood out. He really worked to navigate through screens, hustled on every possession, and was a stalwart on the perimeter. There has been clear growth in his footwork and ball skills, which has helped amplify his tenacity as a dribble-drive threat, allowed for cleaner pickups on his pull-ups, and made his gathers in spot-ups more precise. On both ends, Jaegerskog was a plus.

Benji Veber | 6’2 PG | New Trier | 2027

Veber handled lead guard responsibilities effectively and continued to show growth in his overall game. He regularly manned the point guard spot, knocked down several timely three-pointers, and provided steady offensive organization throughout the contest. His improved physical strength was noticeable and helped him play through contact more effectively and hold off defenders with more confidence.

With the ball in his hands, Veber displayed good pace and an ability to change speeds to create advantages. He consistently kept the offense moving while remaining capable of scoring when defenses gave him opportunities. His balance between playmaking and shot-making helped him impact the game in multiple ways. Veber should be an increasingly attractive name to D3 programs in the area.

Denym Wallace | 6’8 SF/PF | New Trier | 2029

Wallace continues to look like one of the most intriguing long-term prospects in Illinois regardless of class. The 6-foot-8 sophomore possesses an impressive blend of size, athleticism, and versatility that consistently creates matchup problems. He elevated well as both a finisher and rebounder while showing comfort playing above the rim, with a few thunderous dunks mixed into his usual aggressive takes to the rim.

What stood out most was Wallace’s ability to impact the game in a variety of ways. He pushed the ball in transition comfortably, made smart interior passes after drawing attention, and consistently used his size to create advantages. Wallace was a big part of their high-low game, as both a passer and receiver inside of 15 feet. Around the basket, he sealed defenders effectively and finished with authority. He also showcased encouraging shooting mechanics and knocked down several clean mid-range jumpers. Wallace has a bright future.

Palatine

Brady May | 6’6 SF | Palatine | 2027

May was one of the purest shooting forwards I saw while also showcasing a well-rounded offensive skill set. The 6-foot-6 wing consistently stretched the floor, knocking down threes in a variety of ways, including off of catch-and-shoot opportunities, transition pull-ups, and deep trail shots that were well beyond the college three-point line. His release is exceptionally quick, allowing him to get quality looks even against close contests. Within their offense, he also showed high-end vision and passing ability to make on-point skips, make post-entries, and deliver the extra pass off of his drives or post touches.

A three-year varsity player, May showed the maturity to make an impact in several other areas. He led the team on the glass, routinely securing rebounds in crowds while displaying strong hands, excellent timing, and pursuit. The long-armed senior is a solid athlete who has the vertical ability to act as a secondary line of defense around the rim. He also used some crafty euro-steps, showed comfort operating from the mid-post, and consistently made smart reads within the flow of the offense. May continues to establish himself as a highly intriguing wing prospect who doesn’t get talked about enough in discussions about shooters and versatile wings.

Jake Tripp | 6’8 C | Palatine | 2028

Tripp showed the traits of a highly promising young post prospect. The big man displayed impressive touch and feel around the basket, scoring on drop steps, sealing defenders effectively, and consistently keeping the ball high when operating inside. His footwork stood out throughout the game, allowing him to finish efficiently in tight spaces with a good understanding of positioning and angles.

Tripp also deterred some shots inside on the back line of their zone and made a strong impact on the glass, rebounding in his area while attacking the ball aggressively in the air. His touch and mechanics extended beyond the paint as well, as he confidently stepped out and attempted several perimeter jumpers that looked clean. With legitimate size, a solid feel as a low-post scorer, and encouraging shooting potential, Tripp possesses a solid foundation as a budding post prospect who still has plenty of physical upside and refinement.

Lake Forest

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

Haas showcased the versatility that makes him such an intriguing prospect for high-academic programs. The tall wing/forward showed the ability to knock down outside shots with his feet set while also displaying comfort handling the ball in space and using his strength to score inside. His clean shooting mechanics and ability to play away from the basket are complemented by how comfortable he has become at powering through contact on the interior.

Haas also made plays in transition, including an impressive dunk while running the floor and some in-traffic conversions off of direct-line drives. He consistently moved well for his size and demonstrated solid feel as a passer, keeping the offense flowing with smart decisions. Haas moves well, has a great frame, and possesses the face-up ability to continue drawing interest.

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

Scroggins continues to make noticeable strides and was one of the more improved prospects on display. The 6-foot-5 wing consistently attacked the basket with confidence, finishing through contact and showing improved physicality around the rim. His footwork stood out on multiple possessions, particularly when utilizing pivots to create space in the paint off two feet.

Scroggins also knocked down several perimeter jumpers and looked comfortable spacing the floor when opportunities presented themselves. I think there is a ton of promise as a switchable defender, already moving well and showing great timing as a shot blocker and in help-side recovery. Combined with his improving strength and highly projectable frame, the growth in his game continues to trend in a very positive direction.

Ridgewood

Dino Giannini | 6’1 PG | Ridgewood | 2027

Giannini provided a reliable perimeter scoring presence throughout the game. The senior guard consistently knocked down catch-and-shoot opportunities, showing excellent balance, shot preparation, and rotation on his jumper. He remained ready to fire whenever the ball found him and capitalized on open looks.

In addition to his shooting, Giannini handled point guard responsibilities in stretches and kept the offense organized when needed. His ability to space the floor while maintaining value as an additional ball handler makes him a useful piece in the backcourt. Look for D3 programs to tap into Giannini, who is an under-the-radar guard prospect who can really shoot it.

Kenwood

Damari Stephens | 6’4 SG | Kenwood | 2027

When he decided to attack downhill, Stephens was extremely difficult to contain. He consistently got into the paint, using his strength, body control, and pace to create quality scoring opportunities. He absorbed contact well and finished multiple difficult layups against length around the basket. Stephens is a true power guard who looks like a freight train in transition when he gets a head.

What stood out most was his ability to maintain driving angles. Stephens routinely used his shoulders and frame to shield defenders while employing counter moves to keep defenders off balance. His combination of size and athleticism is intriguing defensively, with the profile to be a solid asset guarding both wing spots at the next level.

Elijah Shim | 6’9 PF | Kenwood | 2028

Shim continues to show significant long-term upside as a developing frontcourt prospect. The wiry junior used his length effectively as a help-side rim protector, contesting shots and altering attempts around the basket. His timing and instincts stood out defensively throughout the game, showing the ability to get off of the ground quickly to block shots.

As a punch spot threat, Shim converted several easy finishes around the rim, including multiple dunks off dump-off passes. He runs the floor well for his size and changes ends with impressive mobility. As he continues to add strength, his blend of length, athleticism, and defensive potential should make him a prospect worth monitoring closely.

Wheaton Academy

Hayden Schroeder | 6’8 PF | Wheaton Academy | 2027

Schroeder put together one of the most dominant performances of the event. The mobile forward consistently overwhelmed defenders with his combination of footwork, touch, and physical presence. He scored repeatedly on seals, drop steps, spin moves, and finishes around the basket, making him nearly impossible to guard one-on-one.

Schroeder also displayed impressive mobility for his size, including a dunk and transition euro-step that highlighted his agility in space. He has great instincts and was able to use his length to block shots, control the glass, and use his hands to finish possessions in crowds. Schroeder showed out in a gym packed with college coaches and looked the part of a potential mid-major big.

JP Brock | 6’3 SG | Wheaton Academy | 2028

Brock showcased his athleticism throughout the game and consistently played at or above the rim. For much of the game, he attacked aggressively in transition, elevated for difficult finishes around the basket, and displayed impressive body control when navigating traffic. He wasn’t afraid to go up against size or strength inside, willing to challenge shot blockers with no hesitation.

His offensive game continues to expand as well. Brock knocked down perimeter shots with a smooth stroke and showed touch in and around the paint. He used that athleticism to jump passing lanes and generate turnovers as well. Brock is a rising two-guard in the 2028 class.

Jackson Snider | 6’5 SG | Wheaton Academy | 2027

Snider was tremendous defensively throughout the game. The 6-foot-5 guard consistently shut down opposing scorers with a combination of length, lateral quickness, and disciplined positioning. He showed active hands, moved his feet exceptionally well, and routinely forced difficult shots without gambling.

Offensively, Snider brought it up against pressure at times, delivered accurate passes on the move, and contributed as a strong rebounder and cutter when he was playing away from the ball. He is a decisive straight-line driver who can get to his mid-range game off of the bounce when needed. But above all, his willingness to impact the game without needing a high volume of shots was noteworthy. Snider is one of the better wing defenders in the area with a high-level motor, good frame, positional size, and advanced footwork and reaction time in space. A good Division 3 prospect with upside and versatility.

Tyler Anderson | 6’0 PG | Wheaton Academy | 2028

The stocky junior handled primary point guard duties effectively and consistently looked to push the pace. Anderson was at his best in transition, where he created opportunities by advancing the ball quickly and keeping defenses on their heels. He also demonstrated confidence as a perimeter shooter, stepping into open jumpers with good balance and a clean release.

His ability to organize the offense while maintaining an aggressive mindset provided a steady presence in the backcourt. Anderson has a developed frame that makes it hard for defenders to get him off of spots, and he has straight-line speed to go by guys who get too tight. He should have a solid junior season for Wheaton Academy.

St. Laurence

Markese Peoples | 6’2 PG/SG | St. Laurence | 2027

A big guard for St. Laurence, Peoples consistently found ways to get into the paint and pressure opposing defenses. The strong-bodied guard generated numerous scoring opportunities through cuts and downhill attacks, finishing effectively around the basket while playing with physicality. As much as defenders tried to get in his way, his body control and strength were too much, overpowering bigs at the rim regularly.

Although he spent more time playing off the ball, Peoples remained highly effective. He attacked particularly well going to his left hand and consistently made the correct reads once help defenders committed. His passing instincts and feel are there, particularly off of his drives. Peoples had a solid weekend and had several Division 1 coaches in the stands to watch him.

Logan Brown | 6’6 SF | St. Laurence | 2028

Brown continues to show why his long-term upside remains so intriguing. The 6-foot-6 left-handed wing knocked down perimeter shots with confidence and consistently made quick decisions whenever the ball found him. His ability to immediately attack closeouts or move the ball kept the offense flowing. He is a smooth driver who moves very well in the open floor, to go with budding athleticism around the rim.

Defensively, Brown’s length and mobility remained evident throughout the game. As he continues to add strength and physical maturity, his blend of size, shooting, and versatility gives him significant potential moving forward. A future Division 1 wing with some of the best upside in the CCL.

Noah Corro | 6’2 PG | St. Laurence | 2028

Corro showcased a highly polished offensive skill set throughout the game. The gifted point guard consistently played at his own pace, demonstrating excellent feel and an advanced understanding of angles and spacing. There is an ease and rhythm to his handle that makes it hard for defenders to read him and disrupt his flow. That allowed him to set guys up, push the pace, and get wherever he needed to on the move.

A big-time shooter, he let it fly confidently from deep with good results, hitting a few from well beyond the arc. His shot has ideal arc and rotation, looking like a skill that will remain a big asset as he matures. Corro’s ability to balance scoring and facilitating while controlling tempo continues to stand out among his class.

Kelechi Enyia | 6’2 SG | 2028

After transferring from Providence, Enyia brought strong two-way energy to the floor and consistently impacted the game with his defensive activity. Enyia used his length and anticipation well, recording multiple blocked shots on drives while making opposing ball handlers think twice about attacking his side of the floor. His frame and positional length give him the tools to become a standout perimeter defender as he continues to develop.

Enyia showed good footwork and touch around the basket, finishing several plays through traffic while displaying comfort operating in tight spaces. He consistently found ways to create quality looks around the rim and played with confidence whenever he attacked. Enyia remains a prospect worth monitoring closely with his athletic burst and developing game.

Jeremiah Toney | 6’3 SG | 2028

Throughout the game, Toney’s energy level immediately stood out. The active guard consistently played with a high motor, pushing the pace in transition and creating offense through his activity level. He converted several strong finishes in the open floor and routinely looked to pressure defenses before they could get set.

Toney was relentless as a defender. He applied constant ball pressure, pursued loose balls aggressively, and consistently made hustle plays that impacted winning. His willingness to dive on the floor and compete for every possession set the tone for his team. Toney also rebounded well for his position, highlighting the effort and toughness he brings on a nightly basis.

AJ Enyia | 6’8 PF | 2027

Enyia showcased an intriguing blend of size, mobility, and activity. The 6-foot-8 forward moved well for his size, displaying the ability to switch defensively and stay in front of smaller players when called upon. His length consistently impacted possessions, both as a rebounder and as a defender covering ground around the floor.

Offensively, Enyia was productive around the basket, finishing efficiently while using his length to create advantages inside. He also provided a highlight moment with a transition dunk and consistently generated extra possessions through his work on the offensive glass. Combined with his defensive versatility and rebounding production, Enyia’s physical tools and motor make him an intriguing frontcourt prospect with continued upside after transferring back in-state.

Geneva

David Udoiwod | 5’10 PG | Geneva | 2027

The veteran of a loaded Geneva backcourt, Udoiwod was terrific for stretches, consistently putting pressure on the defense with his speed and ability to change pace. The quick point guard used hesitation moves effectively to create driving lanes and repeatedly got into the paint throughout the game. Once inside, Udoiwod displayed excellent touch on floaters and push shots while remaining under control. He was nearly automatic from that 8-to-15-foot range with a variety of shots to convert against length and athleticism.

He also knocked down perimeter shots off ball-screen actions and competed hard defensively, where his quickness allowed him to disrupt opposing ball handlers. Udoiwod is a blur with the ball and was leaving even high-level guards in the dust when he turned on the jets in the open court. It was a big weekend for the under-the-radar senior who should be a prime target for elite, high-academic D3 programs.

Cody Rader | 5’11 PG | Geneva | 2029

Rader brings an impressive toolset of toughness, feel for the game, and an advanced skill level. Even while the Vikings had a rugged slate of competition this weekend, he consistently played under control, using pace and patience to create opportunities for both himself and his teammates. The vision and adaptability as a passer allowed him to squeeze some passes to cutters and make on-the-move skip passes to shooters.

He handled contact well, knocked down threes when available, and demonstrated those strong passing instincts throughout the game. Since his freshman season, Rader has added strength to handle the type of talented guards that he faced over the weekend. Rader is in a great position to have a big sophomore campaign for Geneva.

Johnny Udoiwod | 6’0 PG | Geneva | 2029

In his first year with the Vikings, the sophomore has impressed this summer. Udoiwod showcased a polished scoring package throughout the game. The young guard consistently got where he wanted on the floor thanks to a quick first step and impressive acceleration with the ball. His handle is clean and deceptive, with that next-level burst that you look for in underclassmen guards with promise.

He scored effectively off the bounce, knocked down stop-and-pop jumpers, and demonstrated comfort creating offense in the mid-range. His ability to generate quality shots seemingly at will makes him a highly intriguing young prospect. As he adds strength, Udoiwod should be a force in the DuKane for years to come.

Wheaton North

Ben Gillmar | 6’5 SF/PF | Wheaton North | 2027

Gillmar provided a strong interior presence throughout the game. The athletic forward established deep position consistently, using strong seals and soft touch around the basket to score efficiently. He finished through contact, displayed comfort using either hand, and consistently converted difficult opportunities inside.

For stretches, Gillmar also contributed on the glass, was solid defensively in their zone, and showed flashes of versatility by putting the ball on the floor when needed. Within their offense, he made several hard backdoor cuts and curls before using his big frame to bully smaller defenders inside. Gillmar has also continued to round out his perimeter stroke and now is a solid catch-and-shoot threat who already has the ball skills to attack the paint in transition or off of the bounce in the half court. D3s in the area looking for a multi-purpose forward with a college-ready frame should look into the four-year Falcon.

Curie

Dream Horton | 5’10 PG | Curie | 2027

Horton played with tremendous pace and consistently attacked the defense. The quick point guard repeatedly got into the paint, using his speed and aggressiveness to create advantages throughout the game.

What stood out most was his ability to make reads once he got downhill. Horton consistently found teammates when help defenders rotated and showed good decision-making while operating in traffic. His ability to pressure defenses and create offense makes him an effective lead guard.

DeKalb

Aaron Ziga | 6’1 PG | DeKalb | 2028

Ziga played fearlessly throughout the game and consistently attacked opportunities when they presented themselves. The crafty guard used his quickness and body control to get into the lane and repeatedly drew fouls by putting pressure on defenders.

His ability to navigate traffic and create contact made him difficult to defend. Combined with his confidence and aggressiveness, Ziga consistently tried to make things happen for the Barbs. Now, as one of the veterans on the team, Ziga will also be counted on to provide some leadership and experience for a young core.

Ethan Reynolds | 6’2 SG | DeKalb | 2030

Reynolds has shown a ton of promise as a young perimeter shooter. The 6-foot-2 freshman consistently found open spaces, maintained strong shot preparation, and knocked down jumpers with confidence. He does a great job of getting his lower half loaded early and has an efficient, one-motion release that extends out to the NBA line.

Reynolds also has good length for a guard, particularly as an incoming freshman, and looks like he will continue to grow. As he continues to develop physically and as an all-around threat, his shooting ability, length, and understanding of spacing and flow give him a strong foundation moving forward. I’m high on how Reynolds conducts himself as well, rarely looking impacted by the outcome of possessions. He’s going to be a good one.

Hank Yarbrough | 6’0 PG | DeKalb | 2030

Yarbrough showcased an impressive blend of athleticism and creativity for a young guard. He finished well around the basket, displayed a polished spin move in traffic, and consistently created opportunities off the bounce.

He also demonstrated strong drive-and-kick instincts when attacking the lane at high speeds and knocked down perimeter shots when defenders gave him space. While still figuring things out as any freshman would, Yarbrough has some raw tools that are worth tracking.

Grant

DJ Stitts | 6’2 PG/SG | Grant | 2027

Stitts carried a heavy offensive workload and consistently made positive plays with the ball in his hands. The athletic guard handled full-court pressure effectively, using his speed and ball-handling ability to break down defenses and initiate offense.

Once he got downhill, Stitts finished well around the basket and showed quality decision-making operating out of ball screens. His ability to score, facilitate, and manage the offense made him one of the key drivers of Grant’s success. Stitts should be an all-conference player for Grant in the winter.

Charles Schlicht | 6’2 SG | Grant | 2027

Schlicht brought athleticism and scoring punch to the backcourt. The explosive guard consistently attacked gaps with a quick first step and put pressure on defenders whenever he turned the corner. He has a powerful frame to absorb hits and doesn’t get pushed off of his line of attack often.

He showed serious bounce around the rim, drew fouls at a high rate, and converted opportunities at the free-throw line. Schlicht also demonstrated touch in the mid-range, giving him another weapon offensively. His athleticism and shot-making ability made him a difficult cover throughout the game.