THE FINALISTS FOR THE 2017 “#TheBIGS HIGH SCHOOL HOOPER OF THE YEAR”
By Eugene McIntosh
The chase for the city title begins today and what a better way to kick it off. Take a look below to check out the finalists for the 2017 "#TheBIGS High School Hooper Of The Year" award.
DEMARIUS JACOBS – UPLIFT (Sr.)
Uplift's Demarius Jacobs
Southern Illinois got a steal when "D" signed his letter of intent earlier this year. He is the most athletic player I've seen this year and can change the game defensively when he's on top of his. He reminds me of a more athletic high school version of Paul George. He's unstoppable going to the rim, can finish with both hands and will definitely have you out of your seat 2-3 times per game. His decision making in the clutch has to improve if Uplift wants another "ship" but right now he has the tools he needs to be a top player in the city of Chicago without a debate.
LUCAS WILLIAMSON – WHITNEY YOUNG (Sr.)
Lucas Williamson (Photo: Lauren Williamson)
Lucas has been huge all season for Ty Slaughter and the Dolphins. I watched him dominate the Proviso West Tournament and lead Young to the title while taking home the MVP. He is very solid offensively and rarely plays outside of himself. He told me earlier in the season that being a leader was something that he continues to work at everyday and it has certainly paid off. Williamson along with Javon Freeman(Seton Academy transfer) and Xavier Castaneda (The Big 3) have their eyes on the prize. Young is no joke.
AYO DOSUNMU – MORGAN PARK (Jr.)
The only junior of the crew, Ayo has been the man for the Mustangs as they won their first conference title with a victory over Simeon in the second meeting of the "Battle of Vincennes". Ayo is more athletic than he looks and is at his best in the open court. He finishes with the best of them and is very confident in what he does. His jump shot needs work but he's a junior so he has plenty of time to perfect his craft. The kid is about his business so I'm confident he'll come back next year with a full arsenal.
ELIJAH JOINER – CURIE (Sr.)
The University of Tulsa commit told The Bigs earlier in the year that Curie was taking the city and winning back to back State Championships. Elijah has been on a tear all season leading the Condors to a 20-2 record and I'm considering them the favorite for the city tournament. Having the state title experience as a junior, Joiner is well versed in his game. He can shoot it, rebounds well, sees the floor and plays with a great pace. He's also that guy on the floor that head coach Mike Oliver knows he can count on. I've watched him demonstrate a few times this season.
EVAN GILYARD – SIMEON (Sr.)
Simeon's Evan Gilyard
The UTEP commit will have his hands full in the next month as Simeon looks to repeat as city champs and make a return trip to Peoria for the state title. Evan has been a true point guard for the Wolverines knowing when to get guys like Talen Horton-Tucker and Kezo Brown the ball in their spots as well as knowing when to put the team on his back and take the game over. He's quick, can shoot the 3, has a nice mid range game(rare in this day and age) and is clutch from the free throw line. Sometimes he gets ahead of himself but what young player doesn't. His late game decision making will be the tell all story for Simeon.