Private School League preview

Outlook: Defending champion Walther Lutheran returns three starters and adds 6-8 transfer Brandon Stanciel to rate an edge over Timothy Christian, last year’s runner-up. Defending Elite Eight qualifier Chicago Christian is the dark horse.

The top five: Brandon Smith, Walther Lutheran, G, sr.; Jeremy James, Walther Lutheran, G, sr.; Jaaron Holmes, Timothy Christian, F, sr.; Andy Stuursma, Chicago Christian, G, sr.; Tim Rusthoven, Wheaton Academy, F, jr.

Keep on an eye on: Peter Tameling, Timothy Christian, F, sr.

Did you know? Five of the nine member schools have qualified for the Elite Eight.

Quote: ‘‘Stuursma is capable of playing all five positions, and we might have to play him everywhere.’’ — Chicago Christian coach Kevin Pittman

Prediction: Walther Lutheran, Timothy Christian, Chicago Christian, Wheaton Academy, Aurora Christian, Westminster Christian, Illiana Christian, Luther South, Luther North.

Patrick Z. McGavin