Preseason Preview: Program Changing Transfers
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These transfers below have been the talk of the Illinois basketball world. With the season starting soon, I believe that these key additions will help their programs to a trip downstate. Cyra Conwell IL #49 CG #17 HEIGHT 5'4" POS…
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Continue ReadingThese transfers below have been the talk of the Illinois basketball world. With the season starting soon, I believe that these key additions will help their programs to a trip downstate.
Moving up to 3A, Butler has an argument as one of the best teams in that class, let alone the state. Last year the team earned a spot in the 2A final four and though they didn’t take home the 1st place trophy, they return this year with every player.. plus another key addition. Conwell has everything that will push this team to the next level. Another shifty scoring guard who defends from baseline to baseline. With a ton of high level players on the roster, this team will be one to watch.
Easily the best college prospect in the state. Trinity has had one of those rememberable summers. A gold medal and a pile of offers from top D1 programs across the country, but the biggest news could be her attending Bolingbrook High School. With a program that’s familiar with winning it all downstate, the current roster can definitely win another one. Jones will add speed, size and a for sure double double in every game. This offense will be tough to stop, and defensively they wont allow many teams to score high numbers.
Montini has been a powerhouse in Illinois, housing many state titles and putting out some of the state’s top talent. This year, the Broncos are now home to another highly skilled player, Nikki Kerstein Nikki Kerstein 5’8″ | PG Montini Catholic | 2025 State IL . A player that brings a ton of talent on the offensive end of the court. With her ability to space the floor, score around the rim, and create opportunities for her teammates, Kerstein should add a new dynamic to Montini’s offensive schemes. As one of the top players in the class of 2025, Nikki has the potential to keep the success going for the Broncos.
Highlights
Coming off of a 3A state championship. Nazareth Academy looks to make history by going back to back in two different classes. With a loaded team that returns almost every key player, Von Schlegell’s arrival will be a great addition. A high caliber scoring guard that can defend, and impact the game in both a half court and full court setting. Her speed and the ability to be a threat in the PnR and play off the ball will be another area that defenses will have to scout against.
Loyola Academy is a program that has had couple state final victories and could possibly contend for another this year. This program consistently showcases a focused and determined style of play on both ends of the court, and with the addition of one of Illinois’s top point guards, Aubrey Galvan Aubrey Galvan 5’7″ | PG Loyola Academy | 2025 State IL , this team now adds new depth to their offensive game-plan. The playmaking skills and defensive mindset have been instrumental in Aubrey’s success, and this season her ability to score the ball should be on display as well.
This program has division 1 college prospects at almost every position, and this year they’ve welcomed in another, Icesis Thomas Icesis Thomas 5’10” | SF Kenwood | 2025 State IL . Originally from Bishop Noel Institute in Northwest Indiana. Thomas will provide energy, muscle and a ton of athleticism that will allow this team to play a fast tempo type of game. She’ll also add presence to the paint, while using her versatility and strength to help on the defensive side of the ball.
Another key addition to the Kenwood program that has flown under the radar. The recent Roosevelt commit brings presence in the open floor and in the paint for the Broncos. She’s active on the boards, has tremendous length to finish around the rim, and can defend the 3-5. Tillman has tremendous work ethic that goes along with a high motor. Kenwood will be one of the top programs to watch.
A program who is no stranger to state titles and top tier players, Benet Academy welcomes Aria Mazza Aria Mazza 5’7″ | PG Benet Academy | 2025 State IL to the pack. Aria’s skillset will allow her to play multiple roles, play on and off the ball, and will add a ton of spacing to a very versatile team. She can score from the 3 to the paint and her craftiness will be utilized as well. On the defensive side of the ball, she’ll bring her speed and quickness. This young team will be competitive this season.