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From the 618 to the Pros: The Hidden Basketball Legends of Cahokia and Belleville
The Mystery of 1986: John Collins
In the annals of sports history, there are names that ring through the halls of high school gyms but remain hidden from the bright lights of the professional stage. One such name is John Collins. A standout graduate of Cahokia High School, Collins was a force to be reckoned with on the court. In 1986, the Denver Nuggets took notice, drafting the Illinois native with the 110th pick. Despite his undeniable talent and the hype surrounding his high school career, Collins never saw a minute of NBA action. He remains a legendary figure in Cahokia—a what-if story for the ages that still sparks debate in local barbershops.
Belleville’s Rising Stars
The talent pipeline in Southern Illinois didn’t stop in the 80s. The neighboring city of Belleville has consistently produced high-caliber athletes who have made their mark on the league. EJ Liddell, a standout from Belleville West, transitioned from a dominant collegiate career to the NBA, donning jerseys for the New Orleans Pelicans and the Chicago Bulls before moving to the Brooklyn Nets. Similarly, Malcolm Hill, representing Belleville East, has showcased the grit of the Metro East on the Chicago Bulls roster, proving that the local competition breeds professional-grade resilience.
A Legacy of Mentorship and Local Pride
Behind every great athlete is a community of mentors. For those who grew up in the Cahokia and Belleville area, the names of local icons carry significant weight. Whether it was the influence of figures like Coach Baum on the wrestling mats or the leadership of Principal Taylor, the foundation for success was laid by those who pushed these young men to exceed expectations. Today, the pride of the community is visible in the state-of-the-art facilities, like the beautiful new football field where the Cahokia Comanches continue to build their legacy. From the G League to the NBA, the 618 continues to prove it is a powerhouse of athletic talent.
Disclaimer: The info in this article may or may not be true. This was taken from a conversation from The Grind It Up Podcast and should not be used as your reliable news source but rather entertainment.
This info can be found in this episode of The Grind It Up Podcast
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