School: Loyola
2018-19 record: 22-12 (8-7 Catholic League Blue)
Postseason results: Lost to Evanston in Class 4A sectional finals.
Players to watch: Senior forwards Bennett (Siena) and Jordan Kwiecinski (Drake) are a pair of Division I recruits who can rebound and score from multiple levels. Varsity players for multiple seasons, the brothers have both gained a lot of confidence heading into this season as they both have All-Area potential.
Why they're in the power rankings: With three straight regional titles and three straight holiday tournament titles (the Gulfshore Holiday Hoopfest in Naples, FL), Loyola has accomplished plenty the past few seasons with a balanced roster and tough defense. One of the strongest defensive teams we saw this summer, the Ramblers have the talent and balance to once again be one of the area's best.
Did you know? Connor Barrett, a senior on last season's Loyola squad who is doing a postgrad year at Brewster Academy, signed to play basketball at Valparaiso next season.