The Bolingbrook Panthers out of Illinois got off to a fast start in the 2015 travel season with highly-regarded 2016 guard Nicole Ekhomu leading the way. Ekhomu is getting plenty of support to two rising stars in the Class of 2017, 5-11 shooting guard Jnaya Walker and 6-1 forward Ty Battle.
The Panthers traditionally face a challenging national schedule, and 2015 has been no different. The Bolingbrook squad will face a huge test when the Panthers head to Louisville for the Summer Derby Classic on July 23-24. The event, which will feature many of the nation’s top travel programs, will be played at the Mid America Sports Center.
The Derby Classic may prove to be something of a coming out party for Walker and Battle. Walker entered the summer listed as the No. 69 recruit nationally in the Class of 2017 according to the All Star Girls Report, while Battle is rated at No. 116. Walker is a two-three type who possesses and impressive array of offensive moves, and outstanding athleticism. Battle is the daughter of former Illinois great Kenny Battle. She is a long athlete who has developed her shooting range out to 16 feet.
“Jnaya is the complete, ultimate team player,” said Bolingbrook program director Chris Smith. “She really can do it all. She is the type of player who will typically give you a stat line with about 12 points, eight rebounds, five assists and three steals.
“Ty was a post player, but she is growing into more of a forward. She is a strong finisher, she rebounds very well, and she has a high basketball IQ.”