Philipe Rech: The Best Player In Illinois That Nobody Knows About? 

By Roy & Harv Schmidt

November 21, 2011

2:45 P.M. CST

We have written several stories on hidden gems over the years, but there may not be a player in recent memory who fits that description any better than Philipe Rech, a 7'0 class of 2013 center.  That is because Rech has only been in the United States for the better part of three months and as a result most high school basketball fans in Illinois are just beginning to find out what he is all about.

Rech comes to the United States from Brazil, where he previously starred on the 17-under Brazilian National Team.  Because of his affiliation with that squad, until now there had been questions surrounding Rech's eligibility to play high school basketball in the U.S. this season.  However, that has since been taken care of, as Rech was recently ruled eligible to play at Carbondale High School in Carbondale, IL.

Rech is described by those who have seen him as a big man who runs the floor well, has great hands and exhibits outstanding footwork.  He also gets to spots in the lane quickly and plays extremely well with his back to the basket.  In addition, Rech also sports a jump hook in his arsenal and has a reasonably accurate mid-range jump shot.

As is the case with many imported big men, Rech needs to work on getting stronger, becoming a more physical player and establishing better defensive positioning.  But make no mistake about it--the consensus amongst those who have seen him play is that he has a world of potential.  To top everything off, Rech is also regarded as being quite humble and is a good student.

Rech will anchor a Carbondale squad that is young (they will start two sophomores and a freshman along with Rech) but has talent.  Carbondale begins their season at the Alton Thanksgiving Tournament.

Editor's Note: Since publishing this entry we have learned through reliable sources that the decision regarding Rech's eligibility was overturned and he has now been ruled ineligible this season at Carbondale.

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