By: Senior Writer Dave Spahn

November 13th, 2008
 

Lately, I’ve been writing articles about players who aren’t getting as much publicity as they deserve. Since Illinois is the best high school basketball state in the country, there are many players who fly under the radar simply because there are so many other prospects. Count Cameron Hill in that bunch. The lone returning starter from a Lincoln Way East squad that graduated four key seniors, Hill was overshadowed last season. He decided that the best way to get more publicity was to train harder than ever. Well, the hard work has finally begun to pay off. After several stellar showings at the Full Package Exposure League brought to you by Illinoishsbasketball.com, Hill is a fast rising prospect and a hot commodity amongst small schools looking for a scorer.

“A lot of DIII colleges have been showing interest," stated Hill." North Central, Hamline, Carroll, and St. Norbert are the schools that I have been in contact with the most. I haven’t really focused on recruiting that much; I am just working hard on my game.”

Hill can flat out put the ball in the hoop. He opened many eyes, including mine, at the Full Package Fall Exposure League brought to you by Illinoishsbasketball.com. Averaging 18.4 ppg in the league, he ranked 6th in scoring while playing alongside Michigan commit Matt Vogrich, who was the league mvp. He showcased his scoring ability in every league game, but his most impressive performances were games in which he scored 26 and 32 points respectively. Hill netted seven 3 pointers during a major upset in the fall league against the league champion Cavaliers, consisting of the majority of the Lake Forest Academy team. Full Package founder Steve Pratt called Hill a “streak shooter who was hot all fall! Led the league in three pointers made, but also displayed the ability to get to the rim and finish.”

“Hamline was at the game when we beat the Cavs, and they started to recruit me right after that,” Cameron explained. “I think I can attract attention like that every game; I just need to stay focused. The Full Package League was a great league, and I tried to get some kids from my school to come play too. I really wish they came, because the league would’ve helped prepare us for our upcoming season.”

 This season, Cameron intends to lead the Lincoln Way East Griffins. Being the only starter returning, Cameron knows that he will provide the most experience, leadership, understanding, and swagger to his team. Although they aren’t the most experienced team around, that is not to say they do not have a lot of talent. 6’9 big man John Bartlett looks to be their strong frontcourt presence throughout the season, and sophomore point guard Mike Tompson, whose father played in the NFL, also should contribute early and often. Cameron and company are shooting to surpass last year’s playoff run that ended with a loss against Thornton.

“I really think our team can make a deep playoff run. Our conference is really tough, but we can compete every night with any of the teams. Right now, I’m just trying to get the team ready for varsity speed. Once everyone is on the same page, we can really have a good season.”

“I have a few personal goals for this season. Last year, I was 89% from the free throw line. I want to raise that average to the mid 90’s this season. I also want to have a scoring average in the 20’s and break a few school records. As for team goals, I want to be up there in the conference championship race, and I want to make a deep playoff run, way deeper than last season.”

There is one thing I know for sure about this sleeper prospect: Cameron Hill has the heart and dedication to get to the next level, whatever level that may be. His passion for the game is something that cannot be taught. He resembles every college coach’s dream: a kid who will give his maximum effort, all 100%, every time he steps on the hardwood. Illinoishsbasketball.com will be sure to keep you updated on this under the radar player, but next time you hear about him, he probably will not be under the radar anymore….