NCAA Basketball Recruiting: Analyzing top-40 forward AJ Casey top 8 teams

The Chicago area has traditionally had quality prospects coming out of high school and the 2022 class is no different. The top player from Chicago according to rankings is AJ Casey, a 6’8 combo forward from Whitney Young High School that is a consensus four-star recruit.

His rankings have fluctuated in the past few months, listed anywhere from the 25-50 range. 247sportsComposite currently has Casey at No. 35. But when healthy and on his game, the forward has five-star potential.

While capable of playing on the perimeter a bit, Casey is more naturally suited to be as a power forward. He can play face-up and has a quick first step to beat other frontcourt players. Casey is an impressive and versatile athlete with an all-around game, while also having the size to be a good rebounder and defender.

The versatile forward’s recruitment has been in the early stages but in this past week has taken the next step, with a group of eight teams officially involved. For those that have been following Casey, several of these teams have already been in the picture, such as Gonzaga, Illinois, and Ohio State.

Recent decisions from other class of 2022 prospects may have altered the picture for Casey with some teams potentially falling back in the race. But who has the best shot to land the four-star forward?

Here is a closer look at Casey’s fit with all eight options, including the likelihood for early playing time and best chance at winning.