School: Whitney Young
2016-17 record: 27-7, 8-2 Public League Red-West
Postseason results: Won Class 4A State Championship
Players to watch: The senior trio of Xavier Castaneda, Javon Freeman and Justin Boyd make up one of the best perimeter groups in the state this season. Castaneda, a USF commit, is one of the best point guards in the state, while Freeman, a Valparaiso commit, is one of the state's top slashers and scorers. Boyd, who was injured for part of last season, is a noted perimeter specialist who came up big in the state title game.
Why they're in the power rankings: Coming off of a Class 4A title last season, the Dolphins peaked at the right time when they were finally healthy. Losing Lucas Williamson will hurt but there might not be a better perimeter in the state then Castaneda, Freeman and Boyd. If the Dolphins get some of their younger pieces like Myles Baker and Tyler Beard to step up then they could have another solid chance at earning a championship.
Did you know? Whitney Young is the only team from Illinois rated in the USA Today's preseason national boys basketball rankings. The Dolphins come in at No. 23.
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