Three high school boys' basketball games during a seven-hour stretch today at the Collinsville Holiday Tournament will have a significant Illinois feel to them.
Beat writer Scott Richey is on hand throughout the day, with Pickett and his Belleville East teammates taking the court right now against Decatur Eisenhower in a first-round game at Vergil Fletcher Gymnasium.
One 3-point attempt for Javon Pickett. One 3-point make for Javon Pickett. #FutureIllini
— Scott Richey (@srrichey) December 28, 2016
Another product from the Metro East that has Illinois fans paying attention is Edwardsville guard Mark Smith.