Illinois Basketball Has the Best Player in Illinois

Illinois Basketball has the best Player in Illinois

Morez Johnson Jr committed to Illinois Basketball almost two years ago. As a Sophomore, Johnson Jr had no hesitation in committing to the Illini and has stayed Loyal. Morez’s game has developed strongly since then. He has maintained his top 50 status and just recently put up a very impressive performance in the beginning of the EYBL. Johnson Jr put up 25 points and 22 rebounds in a win against the NY Renaissance.

Morez has benefitted from a more open front court. The past years, he has played alongside high school teammate, James Brown. Though the two are talented, both share similar skillsets that end up clogging the paint. Since Brown has switched to Mokan Elite’s EYBL team, Johnson is enjoying the benefits of spacing. Throughout this EYBL season, Morez has put up 13.1 points per game in addition to 9.8 rebounds. This past week, Johnson Jr received a nice bump in the 247sports rankings.

The Top Prospect in the State of Illinois:

Johnson Jr has risen 9 spots in the recent 247sports rankings. Currently, he is the 46th ranked prospect and holds the spot as the best prospect in the state of Illinois. He will also play his senior season at Thornton Township high school, where he likely will have more duties as a scorer and interior presence. Illinois Basketball will not have Coleman Hawkins and Terrence Shannon to start the 2024 season. Looking ahead to that roster, Johnson will fit in seamlessly to the role that Hawkins had.

Also, Johnson will play alongside Amani Hansberry in what will be an intriguing front court. The Chicago native has the length, athleticism and defensive prowess to compliment Hansberry’s growing perimeter game and rebounding expertise. Johnson Jr. and Hansberry would be the perfect mix of skill and revved up motor.

Player Comparison

Player comparisons are always difficult, particularly in the prep prospects. We always want to pick a name that is recognizable and one that fans are aware with. However, there is a line between picking one and comparing a kid to NBA superstars. I am sure a name like Bam Adebayo is thrown around given the similar height and athleticism. However, I do not think Morez has the guard skills and defensive versatility that Adebayo displays yet. Foot speed and lateral quickness needs to develop, so I think a Bam Adebayo comparison is pretty inane.

Ant Wright used the name Harry Giles in his prospect breakdown. Giles is an above average athlete who excelled in high school because of his motor and vertical explosion. I think a name like Bobby Portis is an adept comparison for Johnson jr. Both have solid athleticism, however have a strong motor that benefits them on the glass. Adebayo is a little more skilled and defensively versatile, while Portis is more of a paint presence. Hence, my amateur opinion leads me to a name like Bobby Portis.