School: Bloom
2018-19 record: 26-4 (9-1 Southland)
Postseason results: Lost to Homewood-Flossmoor in Class 4A sectional semifinals.
Players to watch: The Blazing Trojans have arguably the most talented starting five in the state this season. Seniors Keshawn Williams (Tulsa), Martice Mitchell (Minnesota), Dante Maddox Jr. (Cal State Fullerton) and Donovan Newby (Milwaukee) are all Division I signees. The team's fifth starter, Christian Shumate, transferred from Plainfield East and could also be Division I bound by the end of the season. All five have All-Area potential this season, although the 6-foot-3 Williams and 6-foot-9 Mitchell have drawn the most acclaim this summer.
Why they're in the power rankings: Already one of the state's best teams last season, Bloom has the talent, athleticism and balance to be nationally-ranked at some point this season. The Blazing Trojans also have the benefit of playing with each other on the varsity level for multiple seasons -- something that shouldn't be overlooked.