Big shots win playoff games just as much as defense does, and Kenwood has one of the best shot makers in Brooks. From all over the court, she can get going, and with her ball handling skills, she’s able to create her own if shes in a situation that requires it. Coming off a state title last year, she also knows what it takes to get there, and that could definitely mean the leadership quality will take effect.

Coming off a state title, Brooks is known to be a deep shooter with no conscience, and it’s because she practices every shot she takes. She can create her own, or she can play an entire quarter off the ball, and simply catch and shoot. Repeating won’t be an easy task, but when you have someone like Danielle, who is a hard scout, it wouldn’t be a surprise to see the Broncos back downstate.

Danielle reminded me at our Prep Girls Hoops Victory Region Finals of all the qualities I loved when I saw her play in Michigan two years ago. Her dynamic ball-handling, deadly three-point accuracy, passing skills, and finishing around the rim were off the charts. She stopped on a dime, used a flawless behind-the-back snap, then swished a deep step-back three off the bounce. Danielle dropped in soft floaters off explosive drives to the basket and made contested layups with both hands from extremely difficult angles–she can use every inch of the backboard to score. Danielle dished quick passes to open teammates, including a no-look bounce pass on the money. She cut back door to score a layup off two feet and created many steals on defense. Danielle dropped 16 points in the Championship game and 17 in the semifinals. She was a complete player who had an outstanding tournament, contributing in every way to lead Chicago Hoops Express to the finals. Danielle earned All-Tournament First Team honors.

Danielle came to Michigan for our Hardwood Classic Showcase in December of 2023–she left quite the impression. Danielle was the top-rated point guard in Illinois at the time and hasn’t flinched. At the showcase, she dazzled with her shifty crossover combinations, deadly perimeter shooting, downhill drives, and comprehensive impact. I’m thrilled to see her again this weekend, playing for Chicago Hoops Express 2026 at our Victory Region Finals.

Brooks played in the state finals like she has been here before. She was a pro by leading her teammates on the court and redirecting them when needed. Her offensive barrage during the title game and leading the team in assists and points was the difference maker and a big reason Kenwood won the championship.

Brooks is known in the state as an elite knockdown shooter, but over the past couple of seasons, her defense has been another asset of hers to hang her cap on. Kenwood has been favored since the beginning of the season to make it downstate and possibly win, and if that happens, Danielle would be a key reason why. Offensively, you know what you’re getting: she’s a spacer, a playmaker, and a hot hand when needed. But if those things aren’t working for her that game, you can bet she’s still top-tier with her defense. She may not be the biggest, but her wingspan, quick feet, and awareness will cause problems for any guard in the state.

Danielle has had strong seasons over the past couple of years, but this year feels like she’ll kick things into a different gear. Brooks is known for her ability to stretch the floor and get past her defenders with 2-4 moves, but her defense is one of the skills that gets overlooked due to her offensive abilities. Kenwood will be a program to watch this winter.

“ Danielle Brooks Danielle Brooks 5'7" | CG Kenwood | 2026 State IL is one of the smoothest prospects I know throughout the country at the high school level and that’s been on full display this weekend with her Chicago Hoops Express team. Brooks is a crafty, she is smooth in every step she takes, she has finesse, and she has a high motor. She can lead a team with speed and quickness or she can slow things up and run her team’s offense in the half-court with some of their sets or motion. Either way, she usually kills it and that’s been the case once again throughout these past couple of days.”

Brooks is a worker-no doubt about it. She is a skilled point guard with tight handles. On a talented Kenwood team, she stands out in her right for her scoring ability, impressive ball handling, speed on the court and the way she distributes the ball.