School: Whitney Young
2018-19 record: 25-8 (8-1 Public League Red-North/West)
Postseason results: Lost to Curie in Class 4A sectional finals.
Players to watch: D.J. Steward is a co-Player of the Year favorite as the senior guard hopes to close an outstanding four-year career with a strong final season. The Duke commit will push for McDonald's All-American status. Backcourt running mate Tyler Beard has plenty to play for as one of the state's best uncommitted players. The frontcourt of senior Sangolay Njie and junior Grant Newell is also among the city's best.
Why they're in the power rankings: The Dolphins once again have the talent, coaching and depth to make a major push for a city and state title. Although Whitney Young came up short of Peoria last season, Njie and Steward both have state-title game experience. The backcourt of Beard and Steward is explosive enough to be one of the area's best. And, as always, Whitney Young has plenty of young talent that should emerge as freshman point guard Dalen Davis is one to watch.
Did you know? Playing perhaps the toughest schedule of any team in the state, Whitney Young is scheduled to play in events in Florida (City of Palms Classic), Massachusetts (HoopHall), California (Nike Extravaganza) and Missouri (versus Vashon).