With the great depth and talent amongst Illinois’ 2023 class, there was great combination for each spot in the rankings. Especially atop the rankings where each of the players are all closely grouped together. Here are our top five players in the states class. 

Cameron Christie – 2023 – SG – Illinois Wolves – Rolling Meadows HS

While any of these top four players have a legitimate claim at the top spot, it is Christie that takes the number one ranking. With his productivity over the past year on the UAA and at the high school level in addition to his upside, Christie did enough to secure this spot. As a 6’6” wing guard with elite shot making ability and his playmaking off the dribble, Christie is one of the more skilled scorers on a national level. 

Recruitment: Committed to Minnesota 

Jeremy Fears – 2023 – PG – Indy Heat – Joliet West HS

As one of the top point guards nationally, Fears slots in at the second spot on the list. Fears is a newcomer to the rankings after returning to Illinois recently after attending La Lumiere. Throughout this time over the past three years, Fears has consistently performed at a high level with his play on both ends of the floor. Not only is Fears one of the top facilitators on a national level but also lockdown ability on the defensive end. He has continued to show great feel, vision, and handle against an incredibly high level of competition. 

Recruitment: Committed to Michigan State

Darrin Ames – 2023 – PG – Mac Irvin Fire – Kenwood Academy

With his play at Kenwood as well as on the EYBL over the past year, Ames locked in his top three spot in these rankings. He is one of the top scoring point guards nationally in the 2023 class who also has a good ability to distribute the basketball. The incredibly explosive guard can create so well for himself and score it from all three levels. Ames has all the tools to make an immediate impact at Kansas State. 

Recruitment: Committed to Kansas State

Owen Freeman – 2023 – F/C – MidPro Academy – Moline HS

As the top big man in the states class and one of the top in the entire nation, Freeman comes in at the fourth spot in these rankings. As well to being 6’10” with a solid build, he has good athleticism, feet, and mobility. As well to being a force in the post, Freeman’s all-around skill level has continued to greatly improve with his ability to put the ball on the floor and hit outside shots. He is a complete big man with so many tools for the next level. 

Recruitment: Committed to Iowa

Asa Thomas – 2023 – SF – Illinois Wolves – Lake Forest HS

Thomas rounds out the top five in Illinois’ 2023 rankings. Over the past fourteen months, the 6’6” wing has been one of the fastest risers in the entire state. He had a breakout summer last year and has continued to climb from there. He has continued to prove he is one of the top shooters in the entire region as well to being one of the more efficient scores in the entire nation. 

Recruitment: Committed to Clemson