The New Wave: Six Illinois Class of 2027 Seniors to Watch

Illinois high school basketball continues to produce talented prospects capable of making an impact at the next level. With the 2026–27 season upon us, a new group of seniors is preparing to make its mark during the final chapter of their high school careers.

From established perimeter scorers to developing frontcourt prospects, this group represents a variety of skill sets, playing styles, and recruiting journeys.

In this edition of The New Wave, we spotlight six members of the Class of 2027 who deserve recognition as the season begins: J'Dyn Lloyd, Nojus Venckus, Nedas Venckus, Zion Braimah, Boti Szabo-Zsamba, and Landon Lethunya.

J'Dyn Lloyd | 6'4" SG | Belleville West | Missouri State

Lloyd enters his senior season as a college-ready combo guard with an aggressive offensive approach and an ability to consistently pressure the rim. A confrontational downhill driver, Lloyd excels at attacking defenders and finishing around the basket, utilizing smooth footwork and impressive touch to convert in traffic. His physicality and ability to create advantages make him an intriguing offensive piece at the next level. Continued development in his decision-making and perimeter shooting will be important as he transitions to Missouri State.

Nojus Venckus | 6'3" SG | Lockport Township | Emporia State

Venckus is a slithery combo guard with a natural scoring ability and an impressive feel for the game. He possesses the athleticism to create separation, attack defensive gaps, and operate effectively in the half court. His positional length adds another dimension to his game, allowing him to be a disruptive presence defensively. With a strong understanding of offensive spacing and an ability to create his own opportunities, Venckus brings an intriguing skill set to Emporia State.

Nedas Venckus | 6'3" SG | Lockport Township | Emporia State

Like his brother, Nedas brings a smooth and elusive offensive game, combining plus scoring ability with an advanced feel for the game. His ability to navigate defenses, create opportunities off the dribble, and operate in different offensive situations makes him an effective combo guard. A good athlete with valuable positional length, Venckus possesses the tools to contribute on both ends of the floor as he makes the transition to Emporia State.

Zion Braimah | 6'7" PF | Pecatonica

Braimah is an explosive athlete whose physical tools immediately stand out. His ability to play above the rim, cover ground, and impact possessions with his athleticism gives him an intriguing frontcourt profile. He is particularly effective within structured offensive and defensive systems, where his physical advantages and ability to execute his role can shine. His athleticism and willingness to operate within a team concept provide an exciting foundation for his next chapter. Braimah is committed to Navy.

Boti Szabo-Zsamba | 6'10" C | Lake Forest Academy

Szabo-Zsamba brings a physically imposing presence to the frontcourt. A big-bodied interior prospect, he possesses a strong frame, physicality, and the ability to establish position around the basket. His solid feel for the game and developing interior scoring ability allow him to contribute offensively without needing an extensive number of touches. His strength and willingness to operate in the paint give him an intriguing foundation as he continues to develop.

Offers: Pittsburgh State

Interest: NIU, Ivy Leagues

Landon Lethunya | 6'10" PF | Lake Forest Academy

Lethunya is an intriguing long-term frontcourt prospect whose combination of length, athleticism, and positional size provides significant upside. A lanky and mobile forward, he possesses the physical profile to impact the game in multiple areas of the floor. His positional versatility and natural athletic tools make him an interesting developmental prospect. With continued refinement of his skill set and added experience, Lethunya has the potential to become a very intriguing player at the next level.

Interest: Harvard, Holy Cross, Mercyhurst, Northern Illinois, and Yale