Chicago Sun-Times Announces 2024 All-Area High School Basketball Team
Table of Contents
- Chicago Sun-Times Announces 2024 All-Area High School Basketball Team
- Chicago Area High School Basketball Standouts: Best, Brooks jr., and Buzelis Shine
- Chicago Area High School Basketball Showcases Rising Talent: Best, Brooks Jr., and Buzelis
- Illinois High School Basketball Standouts: Buzelis,Cleveland,and Coleman Shine
- Illinois High School Basketball Stars Shine Bright Across the State
- Chicago Area High School Basketball Stars Shine Bright: Scantlebury, Smith, and Thompson Lead the Way
- Illinois High School Basketball Standouts: Thompson, Tyler, and Woo shine
- Illinois High School Basketball Stars Shine: tyler Leads Homewood-Flossmoor,Woo Guides DePaul Prep
The 2024 All-Area high school basketball team, a prestigious selection highlighting the best talent across the Chicago region, has been announced. Chosen by a dedicated committee, the team represents the pinnacle of achievement from nearly 400 eligible schools within the Chicago Sun-Times’ extensive coverage area. Among the distinguished athletes honored are Nick Allen from Bradley-Bourbonnais, Aleks Alston from Kenwood, and Grant Best from Lyons, each recognized for their remarkable skill and leadership displayed throughout the season. These players have demonstrated exceptional dedication and performance, earning their place among the elite.
Nick Allen, Bradley-Bourbonnais, Earns All-Area Honors

Nick allen, the towering 6-foot-11 senior center from Bradley-Bourbonnais, has secured a coveted spot on the All-Area team for the second time in his impressive high school career. Allen, an Illinois State recruit, solidified his position among the region’s elite players through outstanding performances this season. Averaging an impressive 23 points, 12 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game, Allen showcased his dominance in the paint, proving to be a formidable force for the Boilermakers. His exceptional play also earned him the title of Southwest Suburban Conference Player of the Year, adding to his already remarkable list of accolades. As the all-time scoring leader for Bradley-Bourbonnais, Allen leaves behind a lasting legacy of excellence and dedication to the sport.
Aleks Alston, Kenwood, Leads Broncos to City Title

Aleks Alston, a 6-foot-10 senior forward from Kenwood, has earned All-Area honors after a stellar season that culminated in significant team achievements. Alston, currently uncommitted, also received recognition as a First Team All-City selection, further highlighting his impact on the court. He played a crucial role, alongside teammates Devin Cleveland, Amari Edwards, and TJ Seals, in leading the Broncos to the Red Shield championship and their first city title, marking a historic moment for the school’s basketball program. Alston’s versatility was evident in his impressive stat line, averaging 17 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 blocks per game, showcasing his all-around contributions to the team’s success.
Grant Best, Lyons, recognized for Exceptional Play

Grant Best from Lyons has also been named to the All-Area team. While specific details about his achievements and statistics were not provided,his inclusion on this prestigious list underscores his significant contributions to his team and his standing among the top high school basketball players in the Chicago area.
Chicago Area High School Basketball Standouts: Best, Brooks jr., and Buzelis Shine
Exceptional talent is on display in Chicago area high school basketball, with players like Grant Best of Mount Carmel, Al Brooks Jr. from Rich, and Vincas Buzelis of Hinsdale Central making notable impacts.best,an Air Force recruit,led Mount Carmel,while Brooks Jr. propelled Rich to a tournament title. Buzelis continues to impress with his all-around game. These athletes are ones to watch as the season progresses.
Grant Best: Leading Mount Carmel with Skill and Determination

Grant Best, a 6-foot-3 senior forward from Mount Carmel, has distinguished himself as a force to be reckoned with on the court. An Air Force recruit and First Team All-City selection, Best played a pivotal role in leading Mount Carmel throughout the season. His dedication and skill have made him a standout player in the Chicago area.
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Chicago Area High School Basketball Showcases Rising Talent: Best, Brooks Jr., and Buzelis
The chicago area high school basketball scene is a hotbed for emerging talent, and several players are making a name for themselves with outstanding performances.Grant Best of Mount Carmel, Al Brooks Jr. from Rich, and Vincas Buzelis of Hinsdale Central are among those who have distinguished themselves through skill, dedication, and leadership.Their contributions are pivotal to their respective teams, marking them as players to watch.
Grant Best: A Key Player for Mount Carmel

Grant Best, a senior guard standing at 6-foot-3 from Mount Carmel, has played a crucial role in his team’s success.Last season, Best helped Cameron Thomas and Noah Mister lead the Caravan to the Class 3A state title game. This year, he continued to be a key player, guiding the team into the sectional final. His consistent performance and leadership on the court have made him an invaluable asset to Mount Carmel.
Best’s contributions extend beyond just scoring. he averaged 18 points and 8 rebounds, demonstrating his all-around impact on the game. His ability to score and rebound makes him a valuable asset to his team. His dedication and skill have earned him recognition as one of the top players in the area.
al Brooks Jr.: Athleticism and Leadership at rich High School

Al Brooks Jr., a 6-foot-7 senior forward from Rich, is making waves with his exceptional athleticism and all-around game. Currently uncommitted, Brooks Jr. is considered one of the area’s most athletic players. He teamed up with Jamson Coulter and Jayden Williams to lead Rich to its first Big Dipper Holiday Tournament title in 31 years, marking a significant achievement for the program.
Brooks Jr.’s statistics speak volumes about his impact on the court. He averaged 17 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, 2 steals, and 1 block, showcasing his versatility and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. His athleticism and skill make him a player to watch as he considers his college options.
Vincas Buzelis: A Force at Hinsdale Central

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Illinois High School Basketball Standouts: Buzelis,Cleveland,and Coleman Shine
Illinois high school basketball witnessed exceptional talent this season,with Vincas Buzelis of hinsdale Central,Devin Cleveland of Kenwood,and Tyreek Coleman of Waubonsie Valley emerging as key players. Buzelis, a South Dakota State recruit, led Hinsdale Central to an impressive 29-4 season and secured the West Suburban Silver title. Cleveland, a sophomore at Kenwood, played a pivotal role in the Broncos’ journey to their first city title. Coleman’s contributions at Waubonsie Valley further highlight the depth of talent in Illinois high school basketball.
Vincas Buzelis: Leading Hinsdale Central to Success

Vincas Buzelis, a 6-4 senior forward from Hinsdale Central, has left an indelible mark on Illinois high school basketball. As a South Dakota State recruit, Buzelis showcased his talent throughout the season, culminating in being named the Hinsdale Central holiday Classic MVP. His leadership propelled the Red Devils to a remarkable 29-4 season, securing the coveted west Suburban Silver title.
Buzelis’s performance on the court was consistently impressive, averaging 19 points and 8 rebounds per game. His ability to score and rebound made him a dominant force, leading his team to victory after victory.his contributions were crucial in key games, solidifying his reputation as a top player in the state.
Devin Cleveland: A Sophomore Sensation at Kenwood

Devin Cleveland, a 6-3 sophomore guard from Kenwood, has quickly risen to prominence as one of the best young talents in the country. Earning First Team All-City honors, Cleveland played a vital role in leading the Broncos to the Red Shield championship and their first city title. His partnership with teammates Aleks Alston, amari Edwards, and TJ Seals created a formidable force that dominated the competition.
Cleveland’s statistics speak volumes about his impact on the game. He averaged 21 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals per game, demonstrating his versatility and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game.His scoring prowess, combined with his defensive skills and playmaking abilities, make him a player to watch in the coming years.
Tyreek Coleman: A Key Player for Waubonsie Valley
Illinois High School Basketball Stars Shine Bright Across the State
Illinois high school basketball is brimming with talent, and several players have distinguished themselves through outstanding performances. From Chicago to the suburbs,these athletes are leading their teams,breaking records,and earning accolades. Phoenix Gill, Marcos Gonzales, Cole Kelly, Christopher Kirkpatrick, Ian Miletic, JT Pettigrew, Dalton Scantlebury, Tyreek Coleman, Jaxson Davis, and Blake Fagbemi are among those making significant contributions to their respective teams and solidifying their positions as basketball talents in Illinois.
Chicago Basketball standouts: Gill and Gonzales earn City-Wide Recognition
Two Chicago high school basketball stars, Phoenix Gill of St. Ignatius and Marcos Gonzales of Brother Rice, have garnered significant attention for their outstanding performances. Gill, a Northwestern university recruit, and Gonzales, who is headed to The Citadel, have each played pivotal roles in their teams’ success. Their achievements highlight the depth of talent within the Chicago basketball scene, setting the stage for promising college careers.
Phoenix Gill: Leading the Wolfpack to New Heights

Phoenix Gill, a 6-foot-3 senior guard from St. Ignatius,has cemented his legacy as a key player in the school’s basketball program. A Northwestern recruit, Gill earned first Team All-city honors, a testament to his exceptional skills and leadership on the court. He teamed up with junior Chris Bolte to propel the Wolfpack to a school-record 25 wins, marking a significant milestone for the program.
Gill’s impressive statistics speak volumes about his impact. He averaged 20 points, 7 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals per game, showcasing his versatility and ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game.his performance earned him the prestigious AC Williamson award at the Pontiac Holiday Tournament, further solidifying his status as one of the top players in the city.
Marcos Gonzales: Guiding Brother Rice to Sectional finals

marcos Gonzales, a 6-foot-3 senior guard from Brother Rice, has also made a name for himself as a standout player. A Citadel recruit, Gonzales earned Second Team All-City honors, recognizing his significant contributions to the Crusaders’ success. He combined forces with Jack Weigus and Caden Workman to lead Brother Rice into the Class 3A sectional finals, achieving an impressive 28-6 record.
Gonzales averaged 19 points and 6 rebounds per game, demonstrating his scoring ability and rebounding prowess.His leadership and consistent performance were crucial in guiding the Crusaders through a successful season, culminating in a deep run in the state tournament.
As Phoenix Gill prepares to join the Northwestern Wildcats and marcos Gonzales sets his sights on The Citadel, their high school achievements serve as a strong foundation for their future basketball careers. Their dedication, skill, and leadership have not only benefited their respective teams but have also left a lasting impact on the Chicago basketball community.
Cole Kelly, Christopher Kirkpatrick Stand Out in Stellar Basketball Seasons
Two Illinois high school basketball players, Cole Kelly from Neuqua Valley and Christopher kirkpatrick from new Trier, distinguished themselves with exceptional performances this past season. kelly, a 6-foot-6 freshman guard, etched his name in Neuqua Valley history, while Kirkpatrick, a 6-foot-3 junior guard, dominated for the New Trier Trevians. Their accomplishments highlight the talent and dedication present in the state’s high school basketball scene.
Cole Kelly’s Record-Breaking Freshman Year

Cole Kelly, a freshman at Neuqua Valley, delivered a season for the ages. His performance was not just good for a freshman; it was arguably the best in the school’s history. Kelly’s impact was felt across all facets of the game, making him a force to be reckoned with.
Kelly’s statistics speak volumes about his exceptional talent and dedication. He surpassed 600 points and 300 rebounds, a rare feat for any high school player, let alone a freshman. His consistency was remarkable, racking up 14 double-doubles throughout the season. On average, Kelly contributed 19 points, 10 rebounds, 3 assists, and 1 block per game.
Christopher Kirkpatrick’s All-Around Dominance for New Trier

Christopher Kirkpatrick, a junior at New Trier, showcased his all-around abilities by leading the Trevians in multiple statistical categories. His consistent performance and leadership on the court earned him recognition as a two-time CSL South All-Conference selection.
Kirkpatrick’s impact extended beyond scoring. He led the team in points, rebounds, assists, and steals per game, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to all aspects of the game. Kirkpatrick averaged 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 6 assists, solidifying his status as a dominant force in Illinois high school basketball.
Both Cole Kelly and Christopher Kirkpatrick have set high standards for themselves and their respective teams. Their performances this season suggest a shining future for both players as they continue their basketball careers.
Illinois High School Basketball Standouts: miletic,Pettigrew,and Scantlebury Shine
Illinois high school basketball boasts a wealth of talent,and three names stand out this season: Ian Miletic of Rolling meadows,JT Pettigrew from Bolingbrook,and Dalton Scantlebury. These senior players have consistently demonstrated exceptional skills and leadership, making significant contributions to their respective teams. Miletic, a Marquette recruit, led his team to a 29-4 record and a Mid-Suburban League championship. Pettigrew, committed to Valparaiso, showcased his versatility with impressive scoring and rebounding stats.
Ian Miletic: Leading Rolling Meadows to Success

Ian Miletic, a 6-foot-7 senior forward from rolling Meadows, has been a dominant force on the court. As a Marquette recruit and two-time All-Area selection,Miletic’s skills and leadership were instrumental in the mustangs’ impressive season.
Miletic’s contributions extend beyond scoring. He averaged 20 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists, showcasing his all-around abilities. His performance was crucial in leading the Mustangs to the Mid-Suburban League championship and a stellar 29-4 record as they headed into Friday’s sectional final.
Looking Ahead
Tyreek Coleman, Jaxson Davis and Blake Fagbemi have solidified their positions as basketball talents in Illinois. Their achievements and contributions to their teams underscore their potential for future success. As they continue to develop and hone their skills, they are poised to make even greater impacts on the court, leaving a lasting legacy in Illinois high school basketball.
Chicago Area High School Basketball Stars Shine Bright: Scantlebury, Smith, and Thompson Lead the Way
Published
Chicago’s high school basketball scene is a hotbed of talent, and several players have consistently distinguished themselves. Dalton Scantlebury of Lane, Luke Smith of Addison Trail, and Davion Thompson of Bolingbrook have not only excelled on the court but have also left a lasting impact on their schools and the broader basketball community. These exceptional athletes are showcasing their skills and dedication, making them players to watch.
Dalton Scantlebury: Leading Lane Tech to New Heights

Dalton Scantlebury, a 6-foot-9 senior center from Lane, has been a dominant force.As a first-team All-City selection and a future player for the University of pennsylvania,Scantlebury’s impact on Lane is undeniable. He spearheaded Lane to its first regional championship, a testament to his leadership and skill.
Scantlebury’s statistics highlight his all-around game. He averaged 16 points, 9 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 blocks per game, demonstrating his ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game. His presence in the paint was a constant challenge for opponents, and his offensive contributions were crucial to Lane’s success.
Luke Smith: A Scoring Legend at Addison Trail

Luke Smith, a 6-foot-0 senior guard from Addison Trail, has left a significant mark on the Illinois high school basketball landscape. While currently uncommitted, his performance has undoubtedly caught the attention of college scouts across the nation.
Smith’s scoring ability is truly remarkable.He averaged 27 points,8 rebounds,and 7 assists per game,showcasing his versatility and ability to impact the game in multiple ways. His scoring exploits have landed him in the IHSA record book, finishing his career ranked 30th in state history with 2,531 points and 10th in field goals with 860. Smith assaulted the IHSA record book,
solidifying his place among the state’s all-time greats.
Davion Thompson: Bolingbrook’s Rising Star

Davion Thompson of Bolingbrook has emerged as a significant talent in Illinois high school basketball. His skills and contributions have made him a player to watch.
Illinois High School Basketball Standouts: Thompson, Tyler, and Woo shine
Published
Illinois high school basketball is brimming with talent, and three names have risen to the forefront this season: davion Thompson of Bolingbrook, Jayden Tyler from Homewood-Flossmoor, and Rykan Woo of DePaul Prep. Each player has demonstrated exceptional skill and leadership, leaving a lasting mark on their respective teams and the state’s basketball landscape. From Thompson’s impressive scoring and accolades to Tyler’s championship pedigree and Woo’s all-around contributions, these athletes represent the best of Illinois high school basketball.
Davion thompson: A Sophomore Sensation

Davion thompson, a 6-foot-3 guard from Bolingbrook, has taken the Illinois basketball scene by storm.As a sophomore, Thompson has already earned significant recognition, including being named Sun-Times player of the Year. This marks his second All-Area selection, solidifying his status as one of the top sophomores in the nation.
Thompson’s statistics speak volumes about his talent and dedication. He averaged an impressive 24 points and 5 rebounds per game. his shooting percentages are equally remarkable: 58% on two-point shots, 49% on three-pointers, and a stellar 90% from the free-throw line. These numbers highlight Thompson’s versatility and efficiency as a scorer.
JT Pettigrew: Bolingbrook’s Versatile Big Man

JT Pettigrew, a 6-foot-7 senior forward from bolingbrook, is another standout player drawing attention. Committed to Valparaiso, Pettigrew has demonstrated his skills as a dynamic and mobile big man.
Pettigrew’s statistics speak volumes about his impact on the court. He averaged 16 points, 10 rebounds, and 2 blocks per game. His shooting accuracy is also noteworthy, with a 59% success rate from two-point range and an impressive 40% from beyond the three-point arc.
Illinois High School Basketball Stars Shine: tyler Leads Homewood-Flossmoor,Woo Guides DePaul Prep
Illinois high school basketball continues to showcase exceptional talent,with Jayden Tyler of Homewood-Flossmoor and Rykan Woo of DePaul Prep emerging as key figures. Tyler, a 6-foot senior guard and Wofford recruit, propelled the Vikings to the Class 4A state championship in 2024. Woo,a 6-foot-1 junior guard,earned Second Team All-City honors after leading DePaul Prep to the Catholic League title and the Pontiac Holiday Tournament championship. Their achievements highlight the dedication and skill present in Illinois high school basketball.
jayden Tyler: Homewood-Flossmoor’s Leader

Jayden Tyler, a 6-foot senior guard from Homewood-Flossmoor, has solidified his legacy as both a leader and a winner. As a Wofford recruit, Tyler played a pivotal role in leading the Vikings to the Class 4A state championship in 2024.This season marked a significant step for Tyler, as he transitioned into the team’s primary star, shouldering more responsibility and consistently delivering high-level performances.
Tyler’s contributions extended far beyond just scoring points.He averaged 19 points per game, showcasing his offensive capabilities, but he also contributed substantially in other areas. He pulled down an average of four rebounds per game,demonstrating his willingness to compete for possession. Additionally, he averaged three assists and two steals per game, highlighting his all-around impact on both the offensive and defensive ends of the court. His career total exceeds 1,000 points, a testament to his consistent performance and significant impact throughout his high school career.
Rykan Woo Named Second Team All-City after Leading DePaul Prep to Championships
chicago’s high school basketball scene continues to produce exceptional talent, and Rykan Woo of DePaul Prep is the latest name to join the ranks of the city’s elite. The 6-foot-1 junior guard has earned a coveted spot on the Second Team All-City roster following a stellar season.Woo’s contributions were instrumental in guiding the DePaul Prep Rams to significant victories, including the Catholic League title and the prestigious Pontiac Holiday Tournament championship. His dynamic playmaking alongside teammates Makai Kvamme and Rashaun Porter solidified DePaul Prep’s dominance this season.

A Season of triumphs
Rykan Woo’s junior year was marked by consistent performance and leadership on the court. As a key member of the DePaul Prep Rams,Woo played a pivotal role in securing two major championships. The first came with the Catholic League title, a testament to the team’s hard work and strategic execution throughout the season. The second triumph arrived at the pontiac Holiday Tournament, a highly competitive event that draws top teams from across the state.
Woo’s ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game made him a valuable asset to the Rams.His scoring prowess, combined with his rebounding, assists, and steals, consistently impacted the outcome of games. The synergy between Woo, Makai Kvamme, and Rashaun Porter created a formidable offensive force that opponents struggled to contain.
Statistical Highlights
Throughout the season, Rykan Woo consistently delivered impressive statistics, solidifying his reputation as one of the city’s top players.He averaged 16 points per game, showcasing his scoring ability and offensive versatility. In addition to his scoring, Woo contributed three rebounds per game, demonstrating his willingness to battle for possession and secure crucial boards. His playmaking skills were also on display, as he dished out three assists per game, facilitating scoring opportunities for his teammates. Defensively,Woo was a disruptive force,averaging two steals per game and creating turnovers that often led to fast-break points for the Rams.
Second Team All-City selection.Teamed with Makai Kvamme and Rashaun Porter to lead the Rams to the Catholic League title and the Pontiac holiday Tournament championship.Averaged 16 points, 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 2 steals.
Looking Ahead
With the All-City recognition and two major championships under his belt,Rykan Woo’s future in basketball looks exceptionally bright. As he enters his senior year, expectations will be high for both him and the DePaul Prep Rams. College scouts will undoubtedly be keeping a close eye on Woo, as he possesses the talent, work ethic, and leadership qualities that are highly sought after at the next level. The upcoming season presents an prospect for Woo to further refine his skills, elevate his game, and solidify his legacy as one of the top players in Chicago high school basketball.
Conclusion
Jayden Tyler and Rykan Woo represent the present and future of Illinois high school basketball.Their achievements and dedication serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes throughout the state. As they continue their basketball journeys, their impact on the sport will undoubtedly be felt for years to come.
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