Class of 2009 guard Paris Gulley is ready to build off last year’s class 2A state runner-up finish when his Peoria Manuel Rams got knocked off 56-42 to North Lawndale in the state championship game. Gulley is a 6-2 combo guard with a slick handle, and a mid-range jumper that at times can be deadly. With the first official day of practice underway, Gulley is excited about what the season holds.

“Conditioning went good; I just really can’t wait for the season to start. I’m trying to get downstate once again this year and get first. I have been playing really good this fall. I think my game really peaked over the summer. I am working on everything right now in my game,” said Gulley.

On the recruiting ront, Gulley currently has no offers but is hearing from a plethora of schools and played in a front of a number of coaches this fall. “Everything with open gym went good we had scouts and coaches in the gym every other week. Kansas State, Iowa, West Virginia, Bradley, Illinois, and Kent State have all been in to open gym. DePaul, Marquette, and Kent State have all been in touch with me. Western Illinois and Eastern Illinois have also contacted me.

“Yeah I want to play for a coach that fits my play of game that runs. I am looking for good academics also,” Gulley said about his college preferences.

While the accolades have rolled in a bit before the season started with Paris already being named a McDonalds All American Nominee. Gulley didn’t stop there he has high hopes for his team and set some individual goals. “Win state first, but I want to make all conference, all tourney in all the tournaments we play in, first team all state, I want to have a big season and hopefully have a shot at Mr. Basketball in Illinois.”

One of Gulley’s biggest supporters and critics is Peoria Irish Coach Gavin Sullivan, who coached Gulley this summer on the AAU circuit. “Paris is an underrated player in my mind. He is a tough hard nosed guard that can play either guard position. Talent isn’t the only thing Paris brings a team either. He has a good basketball IQ, a great work ethic, a want to get better, and is a natural leader,” said Sullivan.

Peoria Manuel will open in the Lincoln Thanksgiving Tournament and again it will have a stout field with Champaign Centennial, Lincoln, East St. Louis, O’Fallon, and Danville.