October 29, 2024 – The CCIW Club Basketball Power Rankings have been released following the first week of exhibition games, and one team’s impressive debut has already made waves. Augustana College, originally picked to finish last in the preseason poll, climbed to #3 after an impressive 80-75 victory over Knox Club. Led by freshman sensation Conor McCaffrey and seasoned captains Ben Statz and Kade Ariano, the Vikings have quickly established themselves as a serious contender in the conference. Here’s an in-depth look at the updated rankings and key takeaways from each team’s exhibition performance.
1. Illinois Wesleyan (#14)
Illinois Wesleyan remains atop the CCIW Club Basketball Power Rankings after an emphatic exhibition win over Lake Forest Club. The Titans displayed their depth, discipline, and defensive prowess in a game that showcased their well-rounded roster and finely tuned team chemistry. Leading the charge were forward Jamal Wright and guard Ethan Silver, a dynamic duo that brings both skill and leadership to the Titans' lineup.
Wright, a dominant presence in the paint, set the tone early with his aggressive rebounding and shot-blocking abilities. Known for his ability to control the boards, Wright finished with a double-double, adding an inside scoring presence that Lake Forest struggled to contain. His physical play forced Lake Forest into foul trouble, creating free-throw opportunities for Wesleyan and making it difficult for the opposition to gain any momentum on offense.
Complementing Wright’s interior game was guard Ethan Silver, who controlled the pace with his sharp shooting and precise ball handling. Silver’s ability to stretch the floor opened up driving lanes for his teammates and allowed the Titans to keep the defense guessing. Silver’s leadership on the court was evident; he orchestrated the offense with confidence and provided crucial assists that kept the Titans’ attack fluid and unpredictable.
What makes Illinois Wesleyan so formidable, however, is their depth. The Titans have several role players capable of making an impact, ensuring that there’s no drop in performance when they go to their bench. This depth allows them to maintain a high level of intensity on both ends of the floor, giving them an edge over less versatile teams. With a balanced offense and a defense that stifles opponents, Illinois Wesleyan is set up for a dominant season as the clear frontrunner in the CCIW.
2. North Central (#19)
North Central holds steady at #2 in the CCIW rankings after an impressive exhibition win over Wheaton Club’s secondary team. Known for their athleticism and relentless pace, the Cardinals showcased their high-energy style of play that sets them apart as a serious contender for the top spot in the conference. At the heart of North Central’s success are their dynamic backcourt duo, Michael Jefferson and Sam Klein, who bring a potent mix of speed, scoring ability, and defensive intensity to the floor.
Jefferson’s quickness and ball-handling were pivotal in setting the game’s tempo. As the primary playmaker, he not only created scoring opportunities for himself but also set up his teammates with precision passes that led to easy points. Jefferson’s ability to break down defenses and get into the lane forced Wheaton to collapse, opening up shots on the perimeter and creating mismatches across the court. His energy on defense was just as impressive, as he consistently applied pressure, causing turnovers that the Cardinals converted into fast-break points.
Klein, on the other hand, provided a consistent scoring threat from the outside. His sharpshooting kept Wheaton’s defense stretched and allowed North Central to space the floor effectively. Klein’s off-ball movement was exceptional, constantly shifting the defense and keeping defenders on their toes. He also displayed strong decision-making, making the right reads and taking high-percentage shots that kept the Cardinals’ offense efficient and productive.
North Central’s relentless pace and defensive tenacity are key components of their identity. By forcing turnovers and capitalizing in transition, the Cardinals can quickly overwhelm opponents who struggle to keep up. With Jefferson and Klein leading the way, North Central looks poised to challenge Illinois Wesleyan for the top spot, bringing a unique, high-speed approach that few teams in the CCIW can match.
3. Augustana (RV)
Augustana’s meteoric rise to #3 in the CCIW rankings is the biggest story in the conference this week, following their impressive 80-75 exhibition win over Knox Club. Initially ranked last in the preseason poll, Augustana has quickly proven that they’re not to be underestimated, thanks in large part to freshman phenom Conor McCaffrey. McCaffrey’s debut was nothing short of stellar, posting 20 points, 8 assists, and 5 rebounds, displaying a level of control and playmaking that immediately transformed the Vikings’ offense. His ability to score, distribute, and read the game suggests he has the talent to play at the varsity D3 level or even higher, yet he’s opted to lead Augustana’s club team, a huge advantage for the Vikings.
McCaffrey’s presence as a true point guard has opened up the floor for senior captains Ben Statz and Kade Ariano to thrive. Statz, a sharpshooter, was able to find clean looks and scored 18 points, benefiting from McCaffrey’s court vision and ability to draw defenders. Ariano, the team’s primary inside presence, recorded a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, controlling the paint and capitalizing on opportunities created by McCaffrey’s playmaking.
Coach Brad Anderson praised his team’s chemistry and potential but acknowledged there’s room for improvement, particularly with turnovers and defensive consistency. “We need to protect the ball better and stay disciplined on defense,” Anderson noted. “But Conor’s impact is undeniable. He elevates everyone’s game, and I’m excited to see what this group can achieve.”
With a combination of seasoned leadership from Statz and Ariano and the game-changing play of McCaffrey, Augustana’s offense looks potent and versatile. They’ll open the season on November 3rd against Butler Club, a game that will be an early test of whether this newfound momentum can translate into sustained success.
4. Weaton (RV)
Wheaton drops to #4 in the CCIW rankings after a closer-than-anticipated exhibition win over Aurora Club. While the Thunder ultimately came out on top, the game exposed a few areas for improvement, particularly on the defensive end and in the paint. Guard Isaac Turner and forward Jacob Steele emerged as key players in the win, but Wheaton’s overall performance left questions about their ability to handle more physical teams like Illinois Wesleyan and North Central.
Turner was the clear standout, scoring efficiently from all over the court and keeping Wheaton in control during critical moments. His shooting range and ability to create his own shot make him a reliable offensive weapon, and he’s proven to be a calming presence when the game tightens up. Turner’s offensive output will be a focal point for Wheaton throughout the season, but he’ll need more support if the Thunder aim to climb back up in the rankings.
Steele, meanwhile, was strong on the boards and provided interior scoring, but he faced challenges defending against Aurora’s bigs. Aurora managed to exploit Wheaton’s gaps in the paint, grabbing offensive rebounds and scoring second-chance points. Wheaton’s defense as a whole struggled to contain Aurora’s drives, leading to a higher foul count and allowing Aurora to keep the game closer than expected.
Head Coach Rick Lawrence acknowledged the areas of concern postgame, stating, “We have to get stronger on defense, especially in the paint. Rebounding and protecting the rim will be key for us as we go up against some very tough teams in the conference.”
For Wheaton to compete at the top of the CCIW, they’ll need to solidify their interior defense and develop a more balanced offense to take some pressure off Turner. As they head into the season, Wheaton’s ranking at #4 reflects both their strengths and the adjustments needed to keep pace with the CCIW’s top contenders.
5. Elmhurst
Elmhurst holds steady at #5 in the CCIW rankings following a solid exhibition win over Monmouth Club. Known for their physical, grind-it-out style, the Bluejays leaned on their defense and rebounding to secure a comfortable victory, holding Monmouth to under 60 points. This low-scoring affair was a testament to Elmhurst’s commitment to defensive intensity and disciplined play, which are shaping up to be the foundation of their identity this season.
Leading the charge for Elmhurst was forward Ryan Harris, who paced the team in scoring and provided a consistent offensive presence. Harris’s ability to battle in the post and knock down mid-range shots gives Elmhurst a reliable option inside, while his physicality helps set the tone for the team. Alongside him was center Will Brantley, a force on the boards who added key rebounds that limited Monmouth’s second-chance opportunities. Brantley’s presence in the paint kept Monmouth’s offense in check, and his rim protection will be crucial for Elmhurst as they look to compete with more high-powered teams in the CCIW.
Despite the win, Elmhurst’s offense showed areas for improvement. The Bluejays’ methodical approach, while effective on defense, sometimes slowed down their own scoring opportunities. With an offense that leans heavily on half-court sets and physical play, they’ll need to find ways to inject more versatility and speed into their attack, especially when facing teams with stronger defensive rotations.
Head Coach Mark Baldwin acknowledged this balance postgame. “We’re proud of the way we controlled the game, but we know we need to be quicker and more dynamic on offense,” he said. “Our defense can only take us so far; we’ll need more options on the other end to challenge the top teams.”
For now, Elmhurst’s physicality and defensive discipline keep them competitive and firmly in the middle of the CCIW rankings. However, to make a serious push, they’ll need to develop a more fluid offense that can keep pace with the conference’s more versatile teams.
6. North Park
North Park holds onto the #6 spot in the CCIW rankings after a scrappy exhibition win against Carthage Club. Known for their fast-paced, high-energy style, North Park leaned on their athleticism and aggressive play to secure the victory, though it wasn’t without its challenges. The Vikings showcased the best of their run-and-gun approach but also exposed areas for improvement, particularly in ball control and defensive consistency.
At the center of North Park’s offense was guard Malik Johnson, a dynamic playmaker who thrives in transition. Johnson’s quickness and agility allowed him to create scoring opportunities both for himself and his teammates, setting the tone early with fast-break layups and well-timed assists. His ability to penetrate the defense and push the pace forced Carthage onto their heels and highlighted North Park’s preference for an up-tempo game. Johnson’s impact on the game was unmistakable, and his energy appears to be contagious, driving the rest of the team to keep up the intensity.
However, North Park’s aggressive style came with a downside: turnovers. The Vikings struggled at times to control the ball, often making risky passes or rushing shots in transition. These miscues allowed Carthage to stay within striking distance and underscored the need for North Park to strike a better balance between speed and control. Defensive lapses also became an issue, as Carthage capitalized on missed assignments and found gaps in North Park’s defense, particularly in half-court sets.
Head Coach Damon Carter acknowledged these areas for growth. “We love playing fast, and that’s our identity, but we need to be smarter with the ball and more disciplined on defense,” Carter said postgame. “If we can clean up our turnovers and tighten our rotations, we’ll be a tough team to beat.”
For North Park, the focus moving forward will be on maintaining their fast-paced style while reducing unnecessary risks and reinforcing their defensive structure. Their athleticism and transition play give them the potential to compete with higher-ranked teams, but they’ll need to refine their approach to climb the CCIW standings.
7. Carroll
Carroll drops to #7 in the CCIW rankings after a narrow, hard-fought win against Rockford Club in their exhibition game. While the Pioneers managed to pull out a victory, the game highlighted both their strengths and weaknesses, leaving questions about their ability to handle stronger conference opponents. Carroll’s offense relies heavily on its backcourt, specifically guard Nate Ellis, who has emerged as the team’s primary playmaker and scorer.
Ellis led the team in scoring during the exhibition, showcasing his knack for creating his own shot and finding seams in Rockford’s defense. His quick first step and ability to knock down mid-range jumpers were essential in keeping Carroll competitive, especially when the game got tight. Ellis’s scoring will undoubtedly be a focal point for the Pioneers this season, but their heavy reliance on his production raises concerns about the team’s overall offensive balance.
Beyond Ellis, Carroll struggled to establish a secondary scoring option, which made their offense feel predictable at times. Rockford was able to key in on Ellis in critical moments, leading to rushed shots and missed opportunities for the Pioneers. Carroll’s limited inside presence also showed, as they were out-rebounded on several occasions and lacked a strong post game to diversify their offense. This left them vulnerable to Rockford’s physicality and allowed their opponent to stay within striking distance throughout the game.
Defensively, Carroll showed flashes of intensity, but lapses in focus led to breakdowns that Rockford capitalized on. Head Coach Troy Lambert acknowledged these areas for improvement, stating, “We need to play a more complete game. Relying on one player for scoring won’t be enough in this conference, and we have to be stronger on the boards.”
For Carroll to move up in the CCIW standings, they’ll need to develop a more balanced attack and establish a stronger inside presence. While Ellis’s talent is undeniable, a one-dimensional offense and inconsistent defense will make it difficult to contend with the top teams in the conference.
8.Millikin
Millikin remains at #8 in the CCIW rankings following a disappointing exhibition loss to Beloit Club, which exposed some key areas for improvement as they head into the season. While Millikin showed flashes of potential, particularly from forward Brandon Lewis and guard Trey Fisher, their lack of cohesion and struggles on both ends of the floor hindered their performance. For Millikin to compete with stronger teams in the conference, they’ll need to address these weaknesses and find a more consistent rhythm.
Lewis led the team in scoring, using his size and strength to create opportunities in the post and contribute on the boards. His physical presence gave Millikin some much-needed grit in the paint, though he often found himself in challenging situations without sufficient support from his teammates. Lewis’s ability to control the paint will be crucial as the season progresses, but he can’t carry the load alone. Fisher, meanwhile, added some offensive firepower from the perimeter, displaying solid shooting and quickness. However, beyond Lewis and Fisher, Millikin struggled to find a consistent third option, which made their offense predictable and easier for Beloit to defend.
Defensively, Millikin’s lapses allowed Beloit to capitalize on open looks and second-chance points. Their inability to box out effectively and control the boards gave Beloit too many opportunities, and the lack of defensive communication led to frequent breakdowns. Head Coach Mike Evans acknowledged these issues in his postgame comments, stating, “We need to play smarter and with more intensity. Right now, we’re missing some fundamentals, especially in terms of rebounding and defensive rotation.”
For Millikin, the focus moving forward will be on improving team chemistry and defensive fundamentals. While they have individual talent in Lewis and Fisher, they’ll need to develop a more cohesive approach on both ends of the floor to challenge their CCIW rivals. With adjustments, Millikin has the potential to rise, but they’ll need to address these areas quickly to avoid falling further behind.
#9 Carthage
Carthage rounds out the CCIW rankings at #9 after a close exhibition loss to Knox Club. While they showed potential in the game, especially through the efforts of freshman forward Derek Mills and senior guard Marco Rivera, Carthage’s inexperience and lack of depth ultimately proved to be obstacles. As a team in the midst of a rebuild, Carthage is focusing on development and finding a cohesive identity, but it’s clear there’s still work to be done if they hope to climb in the CCIW standings.
Mills, a freshman, was a bright spot for Carthage, contributing on both ends of the floor with his hustle, rebounding, and efficient scoring in the paint. Despite his youth, Mills showed impressive poise and a willingness to compete against more seasoned players. His energy and tenacity made a noticeable difference, especially in keeping Carthage within striking distance as the game progressed. Rivera, the team’s senior leader, provided stability in the backcourt, adding scoring from the perimeter and a calm presence during high-pressure moments. Rivera’s leadership will be essential for Carthage as they navigate a challenging season with a relatively young roster.
However, Carthage’s inexperience showed, particularly in their defensive rotations and late-game execution. Knox was able to exploit Carthage’s defensive lapses, finding open looks and taking advantage of breakdowns in communication. Additionally, Carthage struggled to maintain intensity throughout the game, with fatigue setting in and impacting their ability to stay competitive in the final minutes.
Head Coach Dan Morales acknowledged the team’s growing pains, saying, “We’re a young group, and we’re going to make mistakes, but I’m encouraged by the fight and effort we saw. It’s about building on these experiences and learning from them.”
For Carthage, this season will likely be focused on development rather than immediate results. With promising young talent like Mills and a dedicated leader in Rivera, they have the foundational pieces to improve over time. While wins may be hard to come by, the experience gained this season could set the stage for a more competitive Carthage squad in the future.
Overall
As the CCIW Club Basketball teams head into the season, the Week 0 power rankings reflect both the strengths and weaknesses that each squad showcased in their opening exhibition games. Illinois Wesleyan holds firm at the top with a balanced and disciplined approach, making them the team to beat. Their depth and cohesion make them formidable, and they’re setting the standard for excellence in the conference. Close on their heels, North Central brings relentless pace and athleticism, with their backcourt duo of Michael Jefferson and Sam Klein pushing them as legitimate contenders for the title.
Perhaps the most exciting development is Augustana’s jump to #3, thanks largely to the arrival of freshman point guard Conor McCaffrey. His immediate impact has revitalized the Vikings, elevating both their offensive dynamics and overall potential. Augustana’s sudden emergence as a contender will add intrigue to the conference, especially as they look to prove that their ranking is no fluke.
Further down, Wheaton, Elmhurst, and North Park have all shown glimpses of promise but need to address specific areas—whether it’s defense, rebounding, or turnovers—if they hope to challenge the top three. Carroll, Millikin, and Carthage, meanwhile, have considerable room for growth, particularly as they work on developing team chemistry and refining their systems. For these teams, the focus will be on building foundations and making incremental improvements throughout the season.
The CCIW Club Basketball season promises a mix of high-energy play, emerging talents, and dynamic matchups. With teams like Augustana and North Park bringing exciting, fast-paced games and veterans like Illinois Wesleyan emphasizing disciplined execution, fans can expect competitive play and potential upsets. As teams settle into their rhythm, the rankings will likely shift, and the race for the top spot will be as intense as ever. This season’s journey is just beginning, and it’s clear that each team has something unique to bring to the court.