Chicago-Area High School News and Scores | Season Pass

SOUTH SUBURBAN BLUE

Outlook: It’s all about Hillcrest. The Hawks have two state trophies since 2010 — a state championship in ’10 and a third-place last year — and will contend for another one this season. But Lemont boasts a deep lineup of guards to challenge. Also watch for T.F. South and T.F. North.

Top five players: Juozas Balciunas, Lemont, G, Sr.; Kenny Doss, T.F. South, G, Sr.; Greg Martin, Tinley Park, F, Sr.; Jovan Mooring, Hillcrest, G, Sr.; Tom Zale, Oak Forest, G, Sr.
Did you know?: Hillcrest is aiming for its 25th consecutive conference championship.

Quote: “(Hillcrest) gives us a gauge for where our programs need to be if we want to compete at the highest level. It also lets us know that every year we will be competing against a potential state contende,” — Lemont coach Rick Runaas

Predicted finish: Hillcrest, Lemont, T.F. South, T.F. North, Oak Forest, Bremen, Tinley Park.