Scouting: Elgin Academy

Elgin Academy Hilltoppers

Coach: Dewayne Robinson (5th year, 16-74)

Conference: Independent School League

2014-15 record: 3-20 (0-12 ISL)

Top returning players: Jordan Hare (So., 6-4, F), Eddie Joyce (So., 6-7, F/C), Dee Robinson (Sr., 5-10, G), Armin Ward (Sr., 5-10, G)

Top newcomers: Jonathan Cruz (So., G), Elliott Wittmeyer (Jr., 6-2, G)

Season outlook: The Hilltoppers could be on the verge of a breakthrough, led by the talented, veteran backcourt of seniors Dee Robinson and Armin Ward. Robinson won the area scoring crown last season when he averaged 18.4 points in 24 games. “Dee has really developed his game,” said Elgin Academy coach Dewayne Robinson, Dee Robinson's brother. “He has been focusing on the leadership aspect and distributing to get his teammates involved. He's gotten better in all areas and we're looking for him to come out and be the leader we know he can be.” Ward should improve on his solid contribution of 7.6 points after playing only 9 games last season. They are joined by 6-4 sophomore Jordan Hare, who started as a freshman and scored 7.3 points per game. He played predominantly in the post last season. Because teammate Eddie Joyce grew three inches in the off-season to 6-7, Hare may become more of a wing presence so he can be an inside-outside threat. Junior Elliott Wittmeyer was unable to play last year due to injury, but the tough 6-4 wing returns as the team's best on-ball defender, his coach said. Sophomore transfer Jonathan Cruz is a good shooter and ballhandler who will bring energy off the bench. “We've got a couple of returning pieces and a couple of new pieces we didn't have last year,” Dewayne Robinson said. “Some of these guys have been in the system now for their full high school careers. I think this will be the year for us to show what we're capable of. I think we'll be able to do some good things.”