As tempted as I am to turn this space into a debate over the NBA's age limit -- my vote for the worst rule in sports -- I'll do my best to refrain from arguing with no one in particular in regards to a new column from Jeff Borzello of CBS Sports projecting current high school players into the NBA draft.
Anthony Davis is set to go No. 1 overall on Thursday to the New Orleans Hornets, meaning Chicago high school hoops will have produced two top picks in five years. The current incoming high school seniors might be our city's strongest crop yet, led by three-time state champion and Sports Illustrated cover boy Jabari Parker. Parker doesn't go No. 1 in Borzello's mock -- he's at No. 2 -- but the Simeon forward has plenty of local company. Three Chicago Public Schools students are projected in the top seven.
While Parker has been touted as a future No. 1 overall selection in the NBA draft, that honor goes to Andrew Wiggins, an ultra athletic Canadian forward who's currently playing for Huntington Prep in West Virginia. Here's a look at the Chicago kids highlighted:
2. Jabari Parker, 2013, Simeon (Ill.)
There is little doubt that Parker will have a long and successful NBA career. He has a tremendous basketball IQ and feel for the game, to go along with a wide range of skills. He's been injured this spring, but nothing lingering.
3. Jahlil Okafor, 2014, Whitney Young (Ill.)
Okafor isn't an overwhelming athlete, but his hands and back-to-the-basket moves make for a go-to big man at any level. He has very good footwork and has developed a face-up jumper that draws defenders from the hoop.
7. Cliff Alexander, 2014, Curie (Ill.)
Alexander has emerged as a top-five player in his class over the past few months. He is an explosive inside player who uses his strength and size to dominate. Alexander has good post moves and owns the glass.
For more on the recruitment of Jabari Parker, keep it locked to SB Nation Chicago.