The Star Power in the Boys Basketball Class of 2026 is Still Emerging

The star power in the boys basketball Class of 2026 is still emerging. Although the area has seen several productive players so far, there are other highly ranked prospects who have only put up modest numbers in their first two years. But the jump from getting-your-feet-wet sophomore season to a confidence-is-here junior season is typically a big one.

Here are the City/Suburban Hoops Report’s top 12 junior prospects:

1. Lincoln Williams, Kankakee

There’s an obviously high ceiling for the multifaceted, 6-6 Williams, who averaged 17.7 points, six rebounds, three assists, two steals, and two blocks for the 27-win Kays last season. Long and agile, Williams oozes upside and versatility.

2. Mason Lockett, Oswego East

Although he’s coming off a rather under-the-radar sophomore season, Lockett — a versatile 6-5 guard with endless length and superior court vision — has been quietly near the top of his class for some time. If he can become a knockdown shooter, the sky’s the limit for him.

3. Stephen Brown, Marist

Will this be the breakout season for Brown, a much-talked-about prospect since his freshman year? At 6-8, he’s blessed with a basketball body and the talent to push his way toward the top of the class.

4. Andre Tyler, Simeon

Blessed with an impressive package of size, athleticism, and versatility, this 6-5 guard can open the perimeter. He’s a bucket-getter who scores in multiple ways.

5. Colin Stack, Benet

Although he still has a long way to go, Stack, who tops 7 feet, has the potential to be a massive interior presence. He also boasts a jumper that extends out to the three-point line. Look for a significant jump from him this season.

6. Jamson Coulter, Rich Township

With a nonstop motor and toughness, the 6-2 guard is already a contributor in many facets of the game. He’s a downhill force with the ball in his hands, but he also makes the Raptors a force in rebounding and guarding.

7. Marquis Clark, Young

Clark is a tough, compact, physical lead guard who also plays with moxie. Despite the Dolphins losing some contributors through offseason defections, Clark is the type of player who can help them avoid any discernible drop-off.

8. Christopher Kirkpatrick, New Trier

The 6-3 guard exceeded expectations as a sophomore, averaging 13.6 points while shooting 44% from three-point range, burying 81 shots from beyond the arc.

9. Gabe Sularski, Lemont

Already one of the bigger names in the class because of early college interest and offers, the 6-6 Sularski sees the floor and plays with enthusiasm.

10. Ben Okoro, O’Fallon

A 6-7 perimeter talent because of his handle and passing ability, Okoro is a new name here after moving from Missouri. He could climb further in these rankings the more he’s seen.

11. Ethan Hillsman, Joliet West

A transplant from Tennessee, the 6-6 Hillsman is big and athletic and shoots from three-point range. Like Okoro, he’s new to the area, but there already was enough time for him to impress with the Tigers this past summer.

12. Amir Danforth, Rockford Auburn

Danforth is a 6-1 scoring guard who’s already close to 1,000 career points. He’s an excellent quick-release shooter, both off the catch and the dribble, and made 91 threes as a sophomore.

Conclusion

The list above showcases the top 12 junior prospects in the Chicago area, each with their unique strengths and abilities. As they enter their junior seasons, it will be exciting to see how they develop and make their mark on the hardwood.

FAQs

* What is the criteria for selecting the top 12 junior prospects?
Our team of experts takes into account a player’s performance on the court, their athleticism, and their potential for growth and development as they enter their junior seasons.
* How do these prospects stack up against other classes in the Chicago area?
The Class of 2026 has a unique blend of size, athleticism, and skill, making it an exciting class to watch develop.
* What are the most important factors in evaluating a prospect’s potential?
We consider a player’s size, athleticism, shot-making ability, and court vision, as well as their ability to adapt to different situations and opponents.