Word on the circuit is ……

With the first live period in the books it is time to share some of the info I have been hearing from sources out on the circuit. I wish I could be there in person, but since that is not possible I am bringing you the next best thing. The following evaluations/observations come from trusted sources of mine in the gym. <ul> <li>We will start with our "cover girl", <strong>Ashlyn Sturdy</strong>. Ashyln is a 2020 guard from Tri City/Sangamon Valley. The Pizzaz 17u team she plays with won their pool and their Platinum bracket. Ashlyn is a lead guard that can really score it if needed but is also an excellent true point. She rarely came off the floor in 6 wins and showed her ability to get to the rim and finish or get fouled. She is excellent on defense and anticipates well.</li> <li><strong>Anna Hall </strong>is a 5'11 2020 Forward from Civic Memorial. Her SI Hawks Elite 17u team went 4-1 on the weekend and Hall led the way. She showed her usual skill in the post where her strength and footwork make her hard to guard. The continued development of her game facing the basket is what is most exciting. Anna made a shot from behind the 3 point line in every game. Her ability to guard on the perimeter was also showcased in this event. Anna is definitely expanding her game in preparation for her senior year and beyond.</li> <li><strong>Anna Burrus </strong>is a 6ft 2020 4/5 from Concord/Triopia. She plays with the Central Illinois Predators 17u team. Anna continues to be dominant on the boards on both ends. The biggest improvement to her game has been the ability to knock down the 15-18 jumper with consistency. Anna has a motor that just doesn't quit so players and coaches alike love having her on the team.</li> <li><strong>Macy Silvey </strong>is a 5'8 2022 guard from Edwardsville. She plays with the Blue Star Silvey 15u team. Her team played in one of the top 2022 brackets against a few EYBL teams and other top competition. During the summer this year Macy is playing a different role in running the point. She handled it very well, not turning it over, playing strong defense and still hitting her shots with consistency. Showing this ability will only help Macy on the recruiting boards as she is still a little undersized for the typical 2 guard at the D1/D2 level.</li> <li><strong>Grace Riley </strong>is a 5'6 2021 guard from Belleville East. Grace plays with the Evolution Elite 17u team. She led the team in scoring over the weekend doing a great job of hitting the 3 ball. She was consistent throughout the weekend shooting at a high percentage from deep. This helped spread the floor for her other teammates to do work inside. Although most of her scoring this weekend was from the outside Grace has shown the ability to attack the rim and finish in the lane.</li> <li><strong>Bella McCartney </strong>is a 5'10 2020 forward from Routt Catholic. Bella plays with the Illinois Inferno 17u team. She has a toughness and motor that most girls cannot match. Bella consistently battles bigger players for rebounds and wins. She can finish inside and step away from the basket to drive or hit the mid range shot. Bella averaged a double double for the weekend.</li> <li><strong>Claire Christeson </strong>is a 6ft 2022 4/5 from Civic Memorial. Claire plays with the SI Hawks Elite 16u team. She really had a nice weekend showing the ability to be a force in the lane on both ends. Claire was in double digits for rebounds in every game. Her length really causes problems on the defensive end. Claire is another player with a high energy level that can lift her team with her effort on the floor.</li> </ul> With the first viewing period ending each player can celebrate their success and prepare for the next step. That starts tomorrow! No rest time, but a new opportunity to show your ability and desire in front of college coaches. More into to come on more players, good luck to everyone.