Joliet sophomore Anthony Shoemaker, a 6-4 forward, had an impressive varsity debut for the Steelmen, finishing with 20 points, 10 rebounds, four assists and four blocks.
Shoemaker is long and lanky, with excellent court vision and presence. He drained two three pointers and has clearly already assumed a leadership role with Joliet. He's a slasher at this point, doesn't have the body for a post up game, but is a gifted shot blocker.
There was an excellent turnout of power-brokers and Public League coaches, including Larry Butler, Mac Irvin, Simeon coach Robert Smith and Von Steuben coach Vince Carter.
Most of the Young team was on hand (including Anthony Johnson and Marcus Jordan). Marshall's Darius Smith was in the stands, along with Simeon center and Illinois recruit Stan Simpson.
There was a nice sized crowd at Young and I heard that it was packed at Glenbrook North for the 11 a.m. scrimmage. Overall, the games are a good public relations move by the Illini coaching staff.
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