Chicagoland Invitational Showcase: Underclassmen Evals

This past weekend I traveled out to Benet Academy for this seasons Part 2 of the Chicagoland Invitational Showcase. The event once again featured several of the best teams and players in the state and produced many great games and moments. Here are some Sophomores and Freshman that played well in the games I was able to watch: &nbsp; <strong>Katherine Palmer</strong> from Geneva played very well against a tough Nazareth team. Palmer, a 5’9’’ PG, is very calm and composed with the ball in her hands and plays tough on-ball defense. She possesses a quick and accurate jump shot that makes her very effective on the outside. Palmer finished with 13 points against Naz. The youngest of Lincoln Way West’s “Three Headed Monster” at the Guard position, <strong>Tara Gugliuzza</strong> has a ton of skill for a Sophomore. The 5’6’’ PG can handle the ball with quickness and finish well at the rim. Very strong shooter from outside. <strong>Makiyah Williams</strong> from Trinity was a very pleasant surprise. The 5’11’’ Sophomore can play any position and has a nice mid-range game. Williams has good ball handling skills that allow her to create openings for herself. She finished with a team high 11 points against Lincoln Way West. Keys to the success of Simeon this year, and years to come, Sophomores <strong>Aneesah Morrow</strong> and <strong>Khaniah Gardner</strong> played terrifically against Loyola Academy. A 6’1’’ Guard, Morrow can handle the ball well and use her size and strength to get position in the post. Gardner, a  6’2’’ Forward, is a rebounding and put-back machine on the offensive glass. Morrow finished the game with 15 points white Gardner had a team-high 16. Fenwick Sophomore<strong> Lauren Hal</strong>l put on a good showing in a close game against Fremd. The 5’10’’ Guard/Forward runs well in transition and has exceptional court vision to find open teammates. Hall can also guard multiple positions on defense and rebound at a high level. <strong>Ruthie Montella</strong> from Fremd continues to be a consistent player and key part to a successful team. The 6’0’’ Guard uses her length on defense to bother opponents and block passing lanes. Montella can drive well and finish strong at the rim in addition to knocking down outside jumpers.