Henricksen: Breaking down the top 10 sophomores

They’re young and talented. A few made an impact on the varsity level last year as freshmen and others have yet to be heard from.

Plenty will change over the next three years with these young players in the sophomore class. There will be growth spurts, development –– both improved and stagnated –– and plenty of late bloomers joining the party. But here are the City/Suburban Hoops Report’s top 10 prospects in Illinois in the Class of 2018 (listed alphabetically).

■ Darius Beane, Carbondale

A 6-3 long, wiry, smooth point guard who plays unselfishly and already has the ability to make those around him better. Beane has a feel for the game and a big upside as he continues to physically mature.

■ Kezo Brown, Simeon

After playing a key role as a freshman last season, his role will expand in 2015-2016. His makeup, poise and fearlessness stand out. The 6-2 combo guard will defend and make plays at both ends of the floor.

■ Xavier Castaneda, Young

The 5-11 sophomore missed time in the offseason with an injury but is healthy and has dazzled this fall, showing poise and maturity as a pure, decision-making point guard. And don’t discount his terrific perimeter shooting ability.

■ Ayo Dosunmu, Morgan Park

Yes, he plays with flash and flare, but he’s a 6-2 point guard with true scoring and playmaking ability. He’ll settle in with seniors Charlie Moore and Jarrin Randall this year before taking the reins as a junior.

■ Raekwon Drake, Orr

Arguably the most explosive athlete in the class, the 6-5 Drake opened eyes last winter with high-energy plays and playing above the rim. The skill set has a ways to go, but he’s a physically impressive prospect who dunks, rebounds and blocks shots.

■ Devonire Glass, Simeon

A high-level athlete at 6-6 who is long, active and bouncy. While not refined in any one skill area, Glass is still capable of putting it on the floor and knocking down a shot. There is a whole lot of upside here.

■ Tim Finke, Champaign Central

The top-ranked prospect in the class has offers from Illinois, DePaul, Creighton, Saint Louis and UIC, while Scout.com recently ranked him among the top 25 prospects in the country. The 6-5 wing is tough, strong, versatile and plays with a high basketball I.Q. and a little ruggedness.

■ Kendle Moore, Danville

With little fanfare the 5-11 point guard put together a solid freshman year. He can put the ball in the basket, competes and has speed with the ball in his hands.

■ Landers Nolley, Curie

The Condors were already loaded before Nolley arrived this past summer, showing he’s ready to make a splash with his smooth scoring ability and shooting stroke. The 6-4 perimeter threat is worth getting excited about.

■ Marquan Williams, Perspectives-MSA

When it comes to offensive prowess, there aren’t many in the class who can score like Williams. The pint-sized point guard packs a punch with his shooting and scoring off the dribble.