The prospect rankings in the Class of 2027 in Illinois are unlike any other year in state history.
Simply put, the college commitments and recruiting lists for players ranked in the top 10 in Illinois aren’t anywhere near the level we’ve ever seen. Just one example: It’s the Ivy League and mid-major conferences — not the Big Ten — battling for the state’s top talent.
But there will always be an asterisk attached to this class.
Keep in mind, there are five nationally ranked players who will all be headed to high-major programs who began their high school basketball careers in Illinois.
The names are familiar, including Davion Thompson (Bolingbrook), who actually has reclassified and is a freshman at Arkansas, Devin Cleveland (Kenwood), Jaxson Davis (Warren), Howard Williams (Young) and Illinois commit Quinton Kitt (East Peoria). They all left for prep schools.
As a result, here are the top 10 prospects as they begin their senior year.
1. Ed Stasys, Benet
Stasys has earned his unexpected rise to the top spot. After an impressive spring and summer full of production, the ultra-competitive 6-8 big man is set to show he’s more than just an elite defensive player and rebounder with toughness.
2. Mason Martin, Neuqua Valley
The best shooter in the class boasts size at 6-4 and a quick release to go with his unlimited range. Adding strength and evolving his game will come in time for the Illinois commit.
3. J’dyn Lloyd, Belleville West
A physically imposing player with athletic gifts, the 6-5 Lloyd certainly looks the part. But an improved jumper and consistency elevated his stock. He’s committed to Missouri State.
4. Alex Sirbu, Buffalo Grove
From the time this class entered high school, there might not be a more improved player than the 6-9 Sirbu. An elite rebounder with size and strength, Sirbu is headed to Columbia in the Ivy League over other mid-major opportunities.
5. Jamier Montgomery, Crane
What a spectacular few weeks the smooth combo scoring guard put together in June and July. He grabbed a lot of worthy attention and was an instant mid-major target, ultimately committing to Kent State.
6. Hayden Schroeder, Wheaton Academy
All the 6-7 Schroeder has done throughout his career is produce. And he does his offensive damage with his back to the basket and with an improving face-up jumper.
7. Mikey Woods, Perspectives-Leadership
He’s new to the city and to the rankings, returning to Chicago after playing his freshman year at St. Francis de Sales. But he’s a high-motor, aggressive and talented guard with Division I ability.
8. Markese Peoples, St. Laurence
A breakout junior year was followed by an impressive spring that warranted more attention. It’s so difficult to divert the physical, big-bodied guard from the basket. Headed to Central Michigan.
9. Kendall Meyers, Marist
A seasoned player who helped the RedHawks to a state title last season, look for the 6-5 jack-of-all-trades Meyers to blossom as a senior as his role and opportunity expands.
10. Ryan Howard, Alton
A versatile and underrated player in the southern part of the state who impacts the game in a variety of ways and affects winning. Howard is staying close to home and headed to SIUE.