Nov. 26--Last season's record; last season's final ranking in parentheses.
1. Simeon 28-4 (2)
Unmatched depth, outstanding backcourt.
2. Morgan Park 23-7 (4)
Pieces in place for fourth straight trip to state.
3. Fenwick 22-8 (NR)
Mike Smith, Mike Ballard, Jamal Nixon a terrific trio.
4. Riverside-Brookfield 28-4 (12)
Sectional champs return four starters.
5. Kenwood 19-7 (NR)
Return, development of junior big man Manny Patterson is the key.
6. Evanston 20-9 (19)
Sky's the limit for a loaded junior class.
7. Notre Dame 26-5 (8)
Size, experience and toughness.
8. Curie 19-7 (NR)
Devin Gage, Elijah Joiner and depth to boot.
9. Bogan 25-7 (6)
Luwane Pipkins gone, James Jones ready to break out.
10. Marian Catholic 14-16 (NR)
T.J. Smith and depth galore.
11. Young 18-10 (NR)
Guards are young but quite talented.
12. St. Joseph 29-6 (3)
3A champs lose four starters, return 6-11 Nick Rakocevic.
13. Bradley-Bourbonnais 20-7 (NR)
Two D-I players in guard Micah Bradford and 6-7 forward Zach Hollywood.
14. Stevenson 30-3 (1)
Defending 4A champs reloading around Justin Smith.
15. Bolingbrook 25-7 (10)
Talent in pipeline following third-place finish in 4A.
16. St. Ignatius 22-9 (NR)
Great coaching, highly underrated 6-6 senior Daniel Ogele.
17. Benet 22-8 (NR)
No big names, but Gene Heidkamp's crew always exceeds expectations.
18. Oak Park 17-10 (NR)
Talent, depth to win West Suburban and more.
19. Larkin 20-9 (NR)
Christian Negron has the makings of a star.
20. St. Rita 26-4 (7)
Rebuilding or reloading?
On the verge: Conant 19-11, Hinsdale South 15-15, Joliet West 11-16, Lincoln-Way West 21-8, Proviso East 13-14.
Mike Helfgot is a freelance reporter for the Chicago Tribune.
