Team Scrimmage: Illinois Defenders (17U)
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This past week I was invited out by Kara Krolicki, the head coach of the very talented top team of the Illinois Defenders . This program has been in action for awhile, but has never gotten its just due or…
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Continue ReadingThis past week I was invited out by Kara Krolicki, the head coach of the very talented top team of the Illinois Defenders . This program has been in action for awhile, but has never gotten its just due or respect from evaluators as such as myself.
Which is something I apologize for.. cause this team has TALENT!!
Rankings update: june 1st
Reardon is the unicorn of this talented group. She has the ability to be a threat from all levels on the court. Shows force on the block, smooth release from the midrange and arc, and can facilitate from the post as well. Defensively, she has the size and motor to guard 2-5 as well. With nothing but time on her side, Regan can truly make a name for herself as this season goes on. High potential.
Highlights
Sally has seem to hit a growth spurt since the last time I’ve seen her play, and so has her skill set. Multiple times though out the scrimmage she showed the ability to be calm during pressure, dribble with security and facilitate from all angles on the court. She has a ton of creativity, matched with the lengthy frame to be just as versatile on the defensive end as well. A plug and fit guard who can play with any type of player and succeed. Strong upside.
Highlights
Morgan is in that same super standout boat. She has the skill set of a guard, but the frame of a stretch post. Feil can be a knockdown shooter from the mid to the arc, or can go to work in the post and either shoot over or use some solid footwork to get points on the board. Versatile and athletic. Strong upside.
Confidence has been something I preach to every player to develop. Egan has that, wether she shows it or not. First couple of long 3s didn’t fall.. but the kid kept shooting and they started to just fall straight through the net. She shoots within the system, and within her range.. which is deep. She’s tough on the defensive side and can play just as well off the ball, as she does with it.
Highlights
Sadie Grabow
Sadie Grabow
Sadie plays the game with good instincts, creativity and hustle. Match all of that with her length and scoring ability, you get a talented guard who can run the show from multiple positions. Grabow can score from paint to arc, while also having the focus to guard multiple positions.
Mary Gruber
Mary Gruber
A tough nosed defender who can put numbers on the board as well. Gruber has strength, a relentless attitude and the patience to play and produce with different skillsets around her. She has the type of play style where she can fit in to any situation and find a way to be successful.
Mary Kate Porter
Mary Kate Porter
Patience is key for Porter. She has a solid handles, strong vision and the frame to play and defend different positions. She can for sure score in bunches and that’s from all areas on the court. Strong potential
Guarding full court in any game is a tough ask for most players, but to guard full court in an open run is completely different mindset. Bryn looked for her shot here and there but the main thing that stood out to me was her need to defend with balance, focus and awareness. The talent is visible on the offensive end as well. Strong potential.