THE ELITE

Nick Fruendt, 6-5, Jr, Batavia: The best two guard in the state. This season he will be out to prove he's the best junior.

Darius Smith, 6-2, So, Marshall: Unbelievably poised as a freshman.

Trey Blue, 6-2, Sr, Thornwood: The most unjustly ignored player in the area, even after his gutsy performance in the state tournament last season.

Mustapha Farrakhan, 6-4, Sr, Thornton: Long, strong and athletic. His shooting blows very hot and very cold.

Ceola Clark, 6-2, Sr, Warren: Tremendous passing skills, scoring average should rise this season.

THE UP AND COMING

Marcus Jordan, 6-3, So, Loyola: Overpowered opponents at the soph level.

Chris Colvin, 6-2, So, Young: Showed flashes of greatness last season.

Larry Dumas, 6-3, Sr, Bloom: The toughest guard in the area. Plays hard at all times.

Jeremy Montgomery, 6-1, Jr, Lincoln Park: Excellent shooter, needs to be more aggressive.

Dion Dixon, 6-1, Jr, Crane: Silky smooth game. Needs to develop a consistent shot.

THE SLEEPERS

Antonio Topps, 6-2, Sr, Leo: Played fourth fiddle to Rose, Gordon and Flowers on Meanstreets Express. Expect him to put up some impressive numbers this year for Leo.

Justin Taylor, 6-2, Sr, Hillcrest: An amazing athlete. Showed a lot of progress last season. Started playing within the flow of the game.

Richie Walker, 6-1, Sr, Bogan: He is as good a scorer as anyone in the state. Lacking on defense.

Justin Hightower, 6-2, Sr, Proviso West: Played well over the summer. He'll get a chance to gain some attention over Christmas.

Reggie Shipp, 6-2, Sr, West Aurora: Understated game. He doesn't do anything great but does everything well.

TWO TO WATCH

John Moran, 6-1, Jr, Jacobs: Great from three, solid all-around game.

Brian Bradley, 6-4, Jr, Lockport: Opened eyes in the supersectional last year. Very active and athletic.