News Summary

The unveiling of a ‘Mount Rushmore’ showcasing the top four high school basketball players from Will County has ignited discussions among fans. While honoring legends like Darryl Downing and Gary Bell, the exclusion of notable players has led to debates about selection criteria and the impact of these icons on the local basketball tradition.

Will County High School Basketball’s Mount Rushmore Sparks Debate

In the heart of Will County, where basketball is more than just a sport—it’s a way of life—a freshly minted “Mount Rushmore” honoring the area’s most iconic high school players has created quite a buzz. The Mount Rushmore project, an idea that captures the essence of the top talents from various Chicago regions, shines a spotlight on the thriving basketball tradition of Will County, especially around Joliet and its neighboring towns.

The Legends of Will County

This Mount Rushmore recognizes four players who are considered the legends of Will County basketball. Each of them made significant contributions to their schools and left an indelible mark on the sport in the region. But hold on—a few names are missing from this exclusive list, sparking further discussion among fans and players alike. Let’s take a look at the illustrious four, who have shaped the basketball landscape in Will County.

Darryl Downing: A True Pioneer

First up is Darryl Downing, a name that resonates deeply among fans of Providence. Downing burst onto the scene as a freshman, leading his team to a remarkable third-place finish in Class A. The following year, he not only led Providence to a state championship but scored an impressive 21 points in the title game. Dowling became the first Mr. Basketball in Illinois in 1979 and remains Providence’s all-time scoring and shot-blocking leader. His career included a stint where he played in the prestigious McDonald’s All-American game, sharing the court with none other than Michael Jordan. After leaving his mark in high school, Downing continued his basketball journey overseas and later transitioned into education, becoming a teacher and mentor.

Gary Bell: The Records Cascade

Next, we have Gary Bell from Joliet West, who brought a blend of talent and skill that made waves in basketball circles. After moving from North Carolina to Joliet in 1988, Bell quickly made a name for himself, showcasing his abilities at Dirksen Junior High. Throughout his high school career, he amassed 101 victories while capturing two sectional titles and four regional titles. Bell’s scoring prowess was undeniable—he averaged 24.7 points and 9.9 rebounds in his junior year and continued to dominate as a senior. By the time he graduated, he left Joliet with over 2,140 points and 1,250 rebounds, a feat only few have matched in the school’s history.

Roger Powell Sr.: A Scoring Machine

Then there’s Roger Powell Sr., a player whose explosive scoring ability had fans rushing to the stands in the early 1970s. Powell led Joliet Central to a notable finish in the state tournament and ended his senior year averaging an astonishing 33 points and 12 rebounds. He became the all-time leading scorer for Joliet Central with over 2,200 points, leaving a legacy that inspired many future players. After high school, Powell took his talents to Illinois State, where his college career flourished.

Alando Tucker: The Underrated Gem

Last on this Mount Rushmore is Alando Tucker, touted as one of the most underrated players in Illinois high school basketball. Tucker’s remarkable ability on the court was evident during his senior season, where he averaged 21.8 points, 7.7 rebounds, and 5.7 assists. He played crucial roles in several key victories for Lockport, although rival teams posed challenging obstacles. Tucker’s contributions earned him accolades in college, where he stood out in the Big Ten and even became an All-American. His professional journey saw him playing parts of three NBA seasons and later making a significant impact overseas.

The Controversy of Exclusions

While the Mount Rushmore celebrates these four exceptional athletes, the absence of two notable players—Michael Thompson, a McDonald’s All-American from Providence, and Phil Henderson, another McDonald’s All-American from Crete-Monee—has opened a can of worms. Discussions surrounding the criteria for selection have ignited debates about perceived biases, showing just how passionate the community is about its basketball history.

As Will County continues to honor its basketball legends and cherish its rich traditions, the conversation about who truly deserves to be in a place of honor will undoubtedly carry on, keeping the spirit of the game alive.

Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic

LIVE BALL Resources

Louisville High Schools Spark Thrill at State Championships
Santa Ana Honors Rishvanth Krishna as Boys Tennis Player of the Year
South Suburban Chicago Basketball Legends Honored
Celebrating Chicago’s High School Basketball Legends
Brandon Matich Steps Down as East High Football Coach
Aurora Celebrates Basketball Legends on Kane County’s Mount Rushmore
Brent Karpowich Named Gatorade Rhode Island Boys Soccer Player of the Year
Highlights from the 2024-25 Bucks County Girls Basketball Season
Kansas High School Soccer Season Concludes with All-State Team Announcements
High School Sports Achievements Shine Bright in 2024-25 Season

Additional Resources