When the City/Suburban Hoops Report rolls out its preseason rankings, St. Charles East is expected to be among the top 25 teams in the Chicago area. That’s with a healthy Kendall Stephens, who will sign with Purdue on Wednesday.
Stephens’ season is in jeopardy, however, as a likely torn labrum could keep the four-year starter out of action for an extended period of time, potentially the entire season.
“We remain optimistic,” says coach Pat Woods, who begins his second season as head coach at St. Charles East. “He could be dressed and ready to play next week, take time off for rehab or miss the entire season. At this point we just have to wait and see.”
Although early indications are the labrum is torn, there are some labrum tears athletes play with. Stephens has continued to attend practice since the injury, conditioning with the team and shooting with no contact. The type of tear will determine the treatment Stephens will need. Stephens, who was injured in practice, had a MRI taken on Monday. He will know more after meeting with his doctor on Thursday.
Stephens, one of the best perimeter shooters in the state and one of the Hoops Report’s top five prospects in the Class of 2013, averaged 17 points and 7.5 rebounds a game as a junior.
With the return of Stephens, up-and-coming junior guard Dom Adduci, who averaged 13 points and 3 assists a game as a sophomore last season, and plenty of size, St. Charles East is favored to win the River Division of the Upstate Eight Conference.
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