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MAC ON SPORTS: THORNTON TRANSFER CHANGES PICK

J. Thomas McNamara

   Ty Rodgers, who is one of the top 100 senior prospects in the country and a target of high-major programs, enrolled at Thornton and is a monster addition to coach Tai Streets’ program.

     Rodgers has moved with his family into the Thornton school district.

     After leading Grand Blanc High School to its first state championship last season in Michigan, the 6-6 forward was named the state’s AP Division 1 Player of the Year. He averaged 17.8 points, 9.4 rebounds, 3.7 assists and 2.3 steals as a junior.

    There is a clear connection: Rodgers played this past spring and summer for Streets and his Meanstreets club basketball team on the Nike EYBL circuit. Thus, Streets is familiar with his new star player.

       “He’s just a winner,” said Streets. “He’s always won and is such a great kid. He plays super, super hard and is a throwback who competes on every possession.”

     Rodgers is a coveted uncommitted prospect. He has trimmed his list of schools to nine, including Michigan, Michigan State, Illinois, Xavier, Connecticut, Memphis, Rhode Island, Alabama and Marquette.

       At one time Michigan State was considered the favorite. Michigan and Alabama are front and center. Locally, Illinois has made a big push for the strong, athletic hybrid forward. Coach Brad Underwood was in to see Rodgers at his new digs in the south suburbs last week. Rodgers visited Illinois last month.
        Harvey Thornton is a favorite to repeat its 2019 championship. Covid canceled the 2020 tournament.
        I will have more on this developing story in a future print edition of the Decatur Tribune.

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