Returning State Junior of the Year NaVorro Bowman of Sherman Oaks Notre Dame and Josh Lowery of Chatsworth Sierra Canyon will be featured players on their teams this season with Sierra Canyon starting at No. 1 with Notre Dame at No. 2 to start the state rankings. Photos: notredameathletics & sierracanyonbasketball / Instagram.com.
It’s time to launch our winter basketball content on CalHiSports.com and we’ll do it with our preseason boys basketball state rankings. There are three big questions heading into the 2026-27 season, one being just how good is the CIF Southern Section’s Mission League? Is it the best in state history and will a team from the league with both section and CIF state open crowns? Can any other team outside realistically win the state’s ultimate prize? Can a team from the league emerge as the state’s first true national No. 1 contender since the legendary Chino Hills team of 2016-17? Of course, it was another hectic off-season of player movement that greatly impacts these rankings. After all the dust has settled, Sierra Canyon of Chatsworth leads the pack for the sixth time in 10 seasons.
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The world of basketball is rapidly-changing, as the game has become more international on all levels. It’s no secret NBA basketball is dominated at the elite levels by many international players. In fact, the last American-born NBA MVP was James Harden of the Houston Rockets in 2017-18. Harden, of course, was a two-time D3 State Player of the Year at Lakewood Artesia.
In college basketball, international players are the rage with recruiters, because they are often more seasoned, have already played in a pro setting and have gotten more stern coaching than America’s young elite players whose careers are driven by shoe company affiliation. That has negatively affected the recruiting of high school players in America, and players within the CIF ranks are not immune.
High school basketball players are getting more international experience than ever before, too, as many of the nation’s elite players attend academy programs that play in the newly formed ATLAS League that will participate in regular season games against teams from Serbia, Canada, Italy, Germany and Lithuania. Many players have decided to attend academy-type programs all over the country and some players have just recently transferred after spending the summer with another program (check out our state transfer list HERE).
Because of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals that come with roster spots in NCAA power conferences, the stakes for high school players have never been higher. With college basketball rosters spots in flux because of the countless lawsuits and injunctions regarding NCAA player eligibility, in some ways it’s a Wild, Wild West. Some basketball stakeholders were hoping for congressional intervention, while others are pro-athlete who feel their earnings potential shouldn’t be limited in any form. The Protect College Sports Act, the bipartisan federal bill that is intended to regulate many aspects of modern NCAA athletics since many of the organizations bylaws are basically useless, was not voted on before the midterms, so the chaos remains.
Tyran Stokes transferred out of Notre Dame last year just a few days before the preseason state rankings were completed. Photo: @HoophallClassic / X.com.
There is some chaos in high school basketball in terms of the endless amount of summer and fall league games, the dizzying amount of transferring that mirrors the college game, and high school basketball being dominated by academy-type programs where teams play national and international schedules. CIF basketball, too, is being dominated by strong leagues and this season the CIF Southern Section’s Mission League could be the strongest in state history based on the amount of talented players and teams ranked in the preseason 2026-27 Cal-Hi Sports State Boys Basketball Rankings.
For the past two years, a high profile player has transferred on the eve of the release of the rankings. In fact, if Tyran Stokes (now at Kansas) had remained at Notre Dame of Sherman Oaks, Mission League teams would have went No. 1-2-3 in last year’s preseason state rankings. It almost happened happed this year again, as the Mission League has the top two teams in the preseason rankings, three of the top four, four of the top seven, five of the top 12 and six total in our Top 40 countdown. As if that isn’t enough, the projected No. 7 team, Chaminade of Mission Hills, has a player who is as good a college prospect as any sophomore in the state in 6-foot-6 Bear Acy. In fact, we count just over 25 future D1 players in the league.
Over the years, there have been some fantastic leagues, from the old Catholic League in the North Coast Section in the late 1960s and early 70s, the powerful Oakland Athletic League teams of the same time frame into the 1980s, some of the powerful leagues in the L.A. City Section in its heyday, the Camino Real League of the CIFSS in the early 1980s to the recent teams in the Trinity League, we witnessed some pretty incredible teams stacked in the same league, but perhaps nothing like this season. The Mission League is that good.
Will the Mission League produce both the CIF Southern Section and CIF open champion? Will it be two different teams from the league winning each title? Or will 11-time CIF champion Mater Dei of Santa Ana cap off a season in which long-time head coach Gary McKnight will become the nation’s all-time leader in wins with state title No. 12?
It should be an exciting season, and the call between putting defending CIF open champ Sierra Canyon and fellow Mission League club Notre Dame at No. 1 was almost too close to call. In the end, however, the Trailblazers open as the 2026-27 preseason No. 1 team in the state by Cal-Hi Sports. For the 12th consecutive year, a team from the CIF Southern Section will open as preseason No. 1 in the state. For Sierra Canyon, it’s the sixth time it has started in the pole position with the record 11 times by Mater Del of Santa Ana (see all-time preseason No. 1 list HERE).
We’ll never have ties in anything we publish (we’re just too old school and will take the heat) so the defending champs get the nod. The race for No. 1 was much closer than it was last season and perhaps as close any we’ve seen since we picked Bishop Montgomery over Sierra Canyon in 2016-17, which ended up being one of our best preseason forecasts in any sport in nearly 50 years of rankings after the preseason No. 1 team rolled to CIFSS and CIF open state crowns.
Regardless of what happens in Mission League play and with the other top teams, we do know this: Mater Dei and the other top contenders after the preseason Top 2 have their work cut out for them if they are are going to hoist a CIF open crown in Sacramento, if recent rankings history is any indication. Our preseason No. 1 team has finished as the top or No. 2 ranked team in California six of the past seven seasons. The only time it didn’t happen was in 2020-21 when Sierra Canyon finished fourth in the state in the unique CIF spring season when no CIF state championships took place.
The CIF is scheduled to crown its 2026-27 state champions on March 12-13, 2027 at Golden 1 Center in Sacramento.
2026-27 CAL-HI SPORTS PRESEASON
BOYS BASKETBALL STATE RANKINGS
(This is the 47th consecutive season that CalHiSports.com will provide state rankings; Last year’s final rating is in parentheses with 2025-26 won-loss record)
(Cal-Hi Sports co-founder and editor Mark Tennis contributed to these rankings)
1. (1) Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth) 30-1
This could be a special season for the Mission League so it’s only fitting the league’s projected top team starts out as as California’s preseason No. 1 team in our 47th consecutive season ranking the state’s best high school teams. For the last 14 seasons, Sierra Canyon has been preseason ranked and after that first season (2013-14) it has only been ranked lower than No. 5 once. That was in 2024-25, when the Trailblazers ended up as CIF D1 state champs after starting out No. 15. That was one of the finest coaching jobs by veteran Andre Chevalier (237-41 at school, 486 wins all-time) and last year’s club lived up to expectations after opening up No. 1 and finishing as CIF open champs. This year, Sierra Canyon is preseason No. 1 for the sixth time (the state record is 11 times by Mater Dei of Santa Ana) and it’s by the narrowest of margins over fellow Mission League nemesis Notre Dame of Sherman Oaks, a team it didn’t meet in last year’s Mission League title game because of a student death at Sierra Canyon. This is the second consecutive season the state’s top two teams hail from the Mission League, but last season Sierra Canyon was a much more of a slam dunk choice at No. 1, as the margin this year between Sierra Canyon and Notre Dame is razor thin.
Sierra Canyon head coach Andre Chevalier poses with 2025 CIF Open Division state title trophy. Photo: Ronnie Flores.
In splitting hairs between the Trailblazers and Blue Knights, we give the edge to Sierra Canyon because of a simple formula we’ve used over the years: Chevalier’s crew is the defending CIF open champ and with the returning talent get the benefit of the doubt until somebody takes them down when it matters. They are a junior-dominated club and that made the decision that much tougher vs. a senior-oriented club. Jordan Mize (6-8, Jr.) is one of the most talented forwards in the country. Even though he was an all-state underclass choice, Josh Lowery (6-4, Jr.) is somewhat unheralded, but his improvement will be key in rugged Mission League games. When you add in J.J. Sati-Grier (6-1, Jr.) to the ingredients, you have three players that gained tremendous experience in helping Sierra Canyon win last season’s CIF open crown especially after McDonald’s All-American Brandon McCoy Jr. (Michigan) went down with injury in the final game. With Houston Rolle (6-5, Jr.) in the fold over from nearby Heritage Christian, this team adds a hugely-talented scorer who will make the other pieces more dangerous on offense. If Rolle finds his role, there is no reason why this program can’t hold up its fourth CIF open crown and sixth overall state title. Against a national schedule and No. 7 St. Francis, Sierra Canyon will have to show it can guard teams inside, so the contributions of Eastvale Roosevelt transfer Carson Butler (6-8, Sr.) and Kenzo Hounsou (6-6, Jr.) will be key.
Sierra Canyon heads to Arizona Dec. 12 to face FAB 50 ranked Millenium (Phoenix) at Hoophall West. The Trailblazers face FAB 50 ranked Archbishop Stepinac at Hoophall Puerto Rico (Dec. 3-5) and could face the winner of Wheeler of Georgia and Archbishop O’Connell of Virginia in the championship game. Sierra Canyon faces No. 3 Mater Dei on Dec. 22 at Pepperdine University Pavilion as part of the Mission-Trinity League Challenge and also has a big matchup on Jan. 2 with FAB 50 title contender Bartlett (Tenn.) at the Memphis Hoopfest. The regular season Mission League title could be decided right away, as the Trailblazers travel to play St. Francis Jan. 6 and to No. 2 Notre Dame on Jan. 8.
2. (6) Notre Dame (Sherman Oaks) 22-8
The Blue Knights (we and others sometimes refer to them by that nickname in order to differentiate between the Golden Knights of St. Francis) come in as a close No. 2 behind league nemesis Sierra Canyon, which captured both the CIF Southern Section and CIF open tiles in 2025-26. Keep in mind, last year Notre Dame would have started No. 1 and the Mission League would have had the No. 1-2-3 teams in the preseason state rankings had Tyran Stokes (now at Kansas) not transferred out a few days before the rankings dropped. Notre Dame ended up at preseason No. 5 (the spot it started at three of the past five seasons) and the Blue Knights ended up playing in that range the entire season. This time around, the rankings difference between them and Sierra Canyon is much closer, even had Stokes stuck around and just as close as the No. 1 vs. No. 2 debate between Eastvale Roosevelt and Bellflower St. John Bosco in 2024-25. This team has all the ingredients – team speed, positional size and depth – to capture its first CIF and CIFSS open division titles. Last season, coach Matt Sargeant (267-130) lost the returning State Junior of the Year in the 11th hour but this time around he actually has him come back.
That player is UConn-bound NaVorro Bowman (6-2, Sr.), the most electrifying guard in the West Region and the leading Mr. Basketball candidate after averaging 22.5 ppg, 4.9 rpg, 5.0 apg and 1.9 spg while earning co-Mission League Player of the Year honors. He can take over games with his court presence, uncanny driving ability and will to win and it will be exciting to see how Mission League teams respond to him in crunch time. SMU-bound Josiah Nance has developed into a Top 75 player in the country after battling injuries as an underclassman and his ability will be key in those tough Mission League battles. Ilan Nikolov (6-5, Sr.) is a knock-down shooter who provides scoring pop (10 ppg) while Sargeant pencils Zion Lanier (6-3, Jr.) as a classic late bloomer while Nico Micelli (6-7, So.) provides front court depth. Speaking of late bloomers, transfer King Rachal (6-7, Sr.), bound for Utah St., is oozing with talent and with his ability and length could be the difference-maker for a program in its best position to meet its goals of a league, section and CIF open crown. That road won’t be easy, but Notre Dame has all the ingredients to make it happen.
In addition to the Mission League gauntlet and league tournament (the semifinals and final are Feb. 1 and Feb. 3), Notre Dame will face Servite of Anaheim at the Mission-Trinity League Challenge (Dec. 22). The Blue Knights also participate in the DC Hoopfest (Dec. 11-12) vs. highly-regarded Sidwell Friends of Washington, D.C., and in the Les Schwab Tournament in Portland, Ore. (Dec. 26-30) versus the likes of FAB 50 ranked clubs Rainier Beach of Washington, Wheeler of Georgia and Millennium of Arizona.
Mater Dei’s Gary McKnight is in line to become all-time national coaching wins leader probably sometime in January. Photo: mdathletics / Instagram.com.
3. (18) Mater Dei (Santa Ana) 22-16
The Monarchs own their highest ranking since 2023-24, when they started in this same No. 3 position one spot behind Trinity League nemesis St. John Bosco. This season, the traditionally strong league is a clear step behind the Southern Section’s Mission League in terms of team strength and depth and that means this Monarchs’ team rates as the clear cut Trinity League favorite for the first time since 2021-22. Mater Dei has the size, scoring punch and good shooting to rate as a strong CIFSS open entry. Should its rebounding and perimeter defense round into shape, this team could challenge the top Mission League clubs for the CIFSS and state open crowns while veteran coach Gary McKnight (1,316-165) is on the cusp of becoming high school basketball’s winningest coach nationally.
In order for Mater Dei to play at the level it is striving for, the scoring averages (21.7 ppg) of returning leading scorers Zain Majeed (6-8, Sr.) and Richie Ramirez (6-3, Sr.) will go down because the team will be more balanced and potent. Trey Price (6-3, Sr.) averaged 6.5 ppg and 4.4 apg last season, but over the summer and fall showed why he’s such an indispensable piece. He can make good decisions under pressure and facilitates at a high clip. Another whose improvement will be key is Ryan Doane (6-9, Jr.), last year’s Cal-Hi Sports State Sophomore of the Year at Mission League rival JSerra (San Juan Capistrano). Another transfer who has displayed marked improvement over the summer is Ender Berg (7-0, Sr.). He actually played sparingly at Mater Dei in 2024-25 as a sophomore and returns from Legacy Christian (Valencia). His presence allows Mater Dei’s other top players to play at their natural positions where they have an advantage and can get the job done defensively. Also watch for Freddie Forbes (6-5, Fr.) to have some big-time moments because of his incredible deep-range shooting, while Micah Clark (6-7, Fr.) is another first-year player to watch. Forbes could join the likes of Dylan Ridgdon, Clay McKnight, Taylor King and the recently graduated Luke Barnett (Kansas) as the best pure shooter in program history.
The focus of a schedule that includes three holiday tournaments will be keeping an eye on when McKnight gets to 1,334 wins. He needs 18 wins to surpass the all-time national high school mark set by coach Robert Hughes of I.M. Terrell and Dunbar High Schools (both in Ft. Worth, Texas) between 1958-2005. That could happen in January for a coach that should one day join Hughes in the Naismith Hall of Fame.
4. (13) Crespi (Encino) 21-14
After starting at No. 38 in 2024-25 and No. 13 last season, the Celts begin the season as legitimate CIF open title contenders. They land in the preseason FAB 50 national rankings for the first time in program history behind a terrific veteran unit coming off a splendid summer. Similar to No. 5 Redondo Union, Crespi captured major division championships at both Nevada Live and Cali Live during the NCAA June Scholastic Live Period and will be a major challenger to top-ranked Sierra Canyon and No. 2 Notre Dame in the Mission League. Crespi is in this rankings position because of Isaiah Barnes (6-3, Sr.), an all-state candidate who is a play-maker and terrific rebounder from the guard position. The rugged inside play of Rodney Mukendi (6-8, Sr.) also will be key with the amount of size on some of the Mission League teams. Mukendi is a physical presence who has developed a dependable offensive game around the basket. The vast improvement of Jasiah Williams (6-5, Sr.), an ace defender who averaged 21.8 ppg, 6.2 rpg and 4.7 apg at the June live events, makes this club a serious threat in the CIFSS open division playoffs, but it has to get there first. After all, Crespi finished in fifth place last year in league after two consecutive fourth place finishes. Carter Barnes (6-2, Sr.) and Nick Daei (6-3, Sr.) round out the lineup for coach Derek Fisher and Chaminade transfer Aidan Acevedo (6-5, Jr.) adds to the depth. Daei is somewhat overlooked, but he showed over the summer what a vital cog he is with his ball-handing, play-making and knack for being in the right place and the right time. The unsung players who step up and make crucial plays are the type that will determine the Mission League standings as much as the stars. The Celts also look to stay healthy and intact after losing a starter on the eve of the playoffs last season. Crespi will participate at the St. Joseph Elite 8 (Dec. 10-12) in Santa Maria against the likes of FAB 50 title contender Principia of Missouri, Riviera Prep of Miami, No. 10 Modesto Christian, No. 11 Riordan of San Francisco and the host. The Celtics will also participate at The Classic at Damien (Dec. 26-30) and play highly-regarded Dallas Carter at the Panini Hoophall Classic in Massachusetts (Jan. 16).
5. (8) Redondo Union (Redondo Beach) 27-5
The Sea Hawks are looking for their third consecutive trip to the CIFSS open division playoffs and their first crown in the prestigious division. They have the ability to meet those goals with a group that has speed and chemistry. Redondo Union is not a tall unit, but wins with lights out pressure defense and coach Reggie Morris Jr. (206-56 in two stints at Redondo Union) expects to win the battle on that side of the ball with players ready to step up when called upon. That’s how this team went 8-0 at Section 7 and Nevada Live during the NCAA June Scholastic Live Period. We give a slight nod in the rankings to No. 4 Crespi as it graduated less firepower while Redondo must keep the loss count low playing in a league without any other state ranked clubs. The ring-leader is Western Michigan-bound Chris Sanders (6-4, Sr.), an all-stater who averaged 14 ppg, 7.5 rpg, and 2.5 apg as a junior and is a nightmare matchup because of his impressive strength and ability to finish around the basket. Joey Albala (5-7, Sr.) is a veteran point guard who can handle the ball in tight situations and has improved his shooting to keep defenses honest. He also has a knack for making the correct, winning play that Redondo Union will need to navigate through the CIFSS open playoffs. Juliayn Patterson (6-0. Jr.), a transfer from nearby St. Monica (Santa Monica), is a difference-maker with his burst off the dribble. Chris Davis (6-5, Jr.) is a fast-rising wing guard who has improved his jump shot and decision making while depth is provided by the likes of C.J. Edwards (6-0, Jr.) and Taj Ingram (6-7, Jr.). There is plenty to like about a team that starts one spot lower than last season but looks to take it a couple of steps further and losing in the opening round of the SoCal open playoffs to No. 9 La Mirada. Redondo Union will look to defend its title at the Tarkanian Classic (Dec. 18-22) along with four other FAB 50 ranked clubs (the Seahawks cracked the national rankings for the first time in program history last season) and also will participate in The Classic at Damien (Dec. 26-30), where they could meet Crespi in the Platinum Division final unless contenders such as No. 8 Centennial, La Mirada and No. 14 Salesian knock one of them out.
6. (3) St. Joseph (Santa Maria) 31-3
We almost put St. Francis in front of the Knights from the CIF Central Section, but then we recalled just how well this program has done after graduation losses. We started off coach Tom Mott’s (548-209) club No. 10 last season after graduating Tounde Yessoufou (St. John’s), but St. Joseph finished No. 3 after advancing to the SoCal open semifinal where it fell to Harvard-Westlake, 56-52. This program is gunning for its fourth CIF Central Section major division title in five seasons with a team that contains eight players 6-foot-5 or taller. Its best player, however, is Malcolm Price (6-2, Sr.) who replaces older brother Julius Price (Stanford) as the go-to player just as Julius replaced Tessoufou as the top dog. Malcolm Price (21.0 ppg, 4.4 rpg, 4.2 apg) is a classic combo guard who is primed for an all-state season. Godson Eyita (6-10, Sr.) is finally rounding into form and will be counted upon when this team takes on big frontlines during the Holidays and regional playoffs. Elijah Ormond (6-7, Sr.) is the most improved player on the club and if he steps up versus teams with good interior size, this club could be every bit as good as last year’s unit. Mott does have concerns about replacing his backcourt veterans and that’s where the play of Lukas Siskauskas (6-3, Jr.) and Bernardo Jeronimo (6-4, So.) come into play. Siskauskas (20+ ppg on JV) was a standout on the 17U Lithuanian National Team over the summer while Jeronimo has shown flashes of potential. Mott’s team always does plenty of traveling and this season will play in Bangkok, Thailand, at The Classic in Bristol, Tenn., and the Alaska Airlines Classic. It will also host the Elite 8 Tournament (Dec. 10-12) that includes FAB 50 title contender Principia of Missouri, Riviera Prep of Miami, No. 4 Crespi, No. 10 Modesto Christian and No. 11 Riordan.
Cherif Millogo is not the only 7-footer who will be looking to dominate this season at St. Francis of La Canada. Photo: gogoldenknights.net.
7. (NR) St. Francis (La Canada) 21-9
Similar to No. 6 St. Joseph, St. Francis is also known as the Knights (Golden Knights to be exact) and they are the fourth entry from the powerful Mission League. It’s a scenario where they could have easily been higher and could emerge as a force on a statewide and national level. First, however, they have to prove it can all mesh and the team will be intact down the stretch. Last year’s record is a bit misleading because Kentucky-bound Cherif Millogo (7-4, Sr.) did not play in the post-season. He was also missing for much of the summer and he and Yann Kamagate (7-0, Jr.) have to show they can dominate on the court and at the same time. Coach Todd Wolfson has done a great job in the past getting the maximum mileage out of his players, but this is a unique situation and the pressure to succeed hits different when you have the players he does in the lineup. Millogo is as unique a player as we’ve ever seen in the state and Kamagate is as talented a junior as there is nationally. The frontline is completed by Hermann Kone (6-9, So.). The key to St. Francis’ Mission League fortunes will be the consistent guard play of UC-San Diego-bound Jaylin Conard (6-2, Sr.) and Luke Paulus (6-1, Jr.). It’s conceivable that the Mission League semifinals could include the top four teams in the state and a different team from the league could each win the regular season, Mission League and perhaps the CIFSS open crown.
8. (14) Centennial (Corona) 27-8
Two years after veteran coach Josh Giles (547-176) endured his first losing season in 22 years, the Huskies are back as major CIFSS open and state contenders. With three sophomores in its lineup last season, Centennial bounced back to make the CIFSS open playoffs and rate as our No. 7 CIFSS team as the section’s open playoffs has been a 10-team affair the past two seasons with two teams not qualifying for the regional playoffs. The team does lose guard Slim Rogers to Stanford, but the sophomores are now seasoned juniors and showed in the fall and summer they have added wrinkles to their game and are ready to lead. Returning all-state underclass pick Karter Butler (6-1, Jr.), Kai Patton (6-3, Jr.) and Josh Agbo (6-4, Jr.) are complimented by Jayden Yim (5-11, Sr.), a clutch outside shooter who can get hot at a moment’s notice. JuJu Williams (6-4, So.) is oozing with talent is and is starting to play to the vast potential he showed at Monterey Trail of Elk Grove. Handling much of the interior chores are Carter Brown (6-7, Jr.) and Nathaniel Wright (6-5, Jr.). The Huskies will play No. 17 Bakersfield Christian on the road to open the season and have an early test with FAB 50 ranked Sunnyslope of Arizona at the BattleZone (Nov. 27). Tourney titles in the Platinum Division at the Tarkanian Classic (Dec. 18-22) and/or The Classic at Damien (Dec. 26-30) would give this team a rankings boost.
9. (7) La Mirada 24-9
Two seasons ago, the Matadores were screwed out of a regional playoff berth because of a ridiculous set of tiebreaker rules for CIFSS open division pool play, but bounced back in a big way last season. They qualified for the CIFSS open playoffs, and should have made the SoCal open playoffs before being upset by a hot-running Mater Dei team in the SoCal D1 playoffs. Still, coach Randy Oronoz has back the bulk of a team that was FAB 50 ranked for a portion of the regular season and could climb in this year’s rankings. Senior Gene Roebuck (22.5 ppg, 4.6 rpg, 2.7 apg) is a Mr. Basketball candidate and will crack the state’s all-time scoring list after earning class player of the year honors as a freshman and sophomore. Cisco Munoz (6-0, Jr., 9.3 ppg) was third team all-state underclass and Jordyn Houston (6-7, Sr., 11.5 ppg) is a key cog. Lamek Kifle (6-9, Sr.) sat out last season but if he’s as good as advertised, Houston could take his game to the next level and defenses won’t be able to throw everything at Roebuck. The Mats have three tough games, including a Dec. 12 matchup with FAB 50 ranked Sunnyslope of Arizona at Hoophall West, before participating in the Tarkanian Classic with that same club and the likes of FAB 50 ranked Vashon of Missouri, Mustang of Oklahoma, and Basha of Arizona. Similar to No. 4 Redondo and No. 8 Centennial, the Mats will also be at The Classic at Damien after Christmas.
Somto Patrick, a freshman starting center last season, has been an impact player for Modesto Christian. Photo: Mark Tennis / Cal-Hi Sports.
10. (20) Modesto Christian 27-7
Since teams from the CIF Central Section can go North or South for the regional playoffs, the Crusaders rate as the true NorCal preseason No. 1 team. We slow played this program last season because of the transition to coach Chris Teevan from Brice Fantazia (Modesto Junior College), but we should have known better as Modesto Christian always seems to peak in time for the CIF Sac Joaquin Section playoffs and did much better than expected. We give them the nod over the Riordan team it lost to in the NorCal open playoffs because of the return of its top three performers and quality role players. Siincere Hudson (6-2, Sr.) and Trevor Dickson (6-4, Sr.) form one of the best 1-2 punches in the state and Somto Patrick (6-9, So.) made a big splash last season and during summer camps. All three were all-state underclass choices. If Patrick takes his game to the next level, there is no reason why this team can’t out perform its preseason ranking once again. Elijah Payne (6-6, Sr.) and Cole Martin (6-3, Sr.) are two underrated veterans who will help the Crusaders navigate a tough schedule that includes a Nov. 23 game with No. 4 Crespi. The Crusaders will open The Elite 8 Tournament in Santa Maria (Dec. 10-12) with FAB 50 title contender Principia of Missouri.
11. (12) Archbishop Riordan (San Francisco) 26-2**
After opening up at No. 8 in the state for three consecutive seasons, the Crusaders begin a notch below this time around but still rate as a serious contender to capture the NorCal open title. The program is smarting over a golden missed opportunity when it gave up a big lead to No. 14 Salesian in last season’s NorCal open title game. One reason we start it below Modesto Christian is the talented unit must find continuity and point guard Judah Van Ewijk (6-2, So.) broke his wrist in a fall league game. Oregon State-bound Emmanuel Ahamefule (6-9, Sr.) has a chance to be a dominant presence after sitting out last season, while newcomer Amare Chandler (6-5, Jr.) from Livermore is also a big-time talent. Coach Joey Curtin welcomes back veterans Sean Porter (6-7, Sr.), Jack Loevner (6-4, Jr.), Andre Amesquita Carter (6-3, Jr.) and Cole White (6-1, Sr.) while Dillon Rice (6-2, Fr.) might be too talented not to get some playing time. If it all meshes, this team will be right in the mix to make its second appearance in the CIF open title game in three years. Riordan opens The Eight 8 Tournament in Santa Maria on Dec. 10 vs. highly-regarded Riviera Prep of Florida.
12. (2) Harvard-Westlake (Studio City) 27-7
This proud program (back to-back CIF open champs in 2023 and 2024) was preseason Top 3 between 2022-2026 but takes a step back this season after heavy graduation losses. Last year’s preseason No. 2 squad lived right up to expectations after falling to Mission League foe and eventual CIF open champ Sierra Canyon in the SoCal open final. Sure, coach Dave Rebibo (407-138) has a club that comes in as the No. 5 team from the Mission League, but it’s also the No. 9 team from the CIF Southern Section and will likely improve as the season wears on. With a backcourt that includes UC Riverside-bound Cole Holden (6-3, Sr.) and Utah-bound Pierce Thompson (6-5, Sr.), this team could play spoiler in the CIFSS open playoffs. A budding star is Dakota Ray (6-4, So.) while up front depth is provided by Dom Fontenot (6-8, Sr.) and Nairobi Ebi (6-7, So.). Should a Mission League team win the regular season, league playoff and CIFSS open title and enter the regional unbeaten, not only will it be the No. 1 team in the state, it will have a chance to win the FAB 50 national title.
13. (NR) San Gabriel Academy 19-9
The Eagles will be battling for their first ever berth in the CIFSS open playoffs with a veteran team and a big-time go-to player. We were going to begin coach Danny Piepoli’s club a shade higher, but it must prove it’s a Top 10 team after faltering down the stretch last season. San Diego St.-bound Mahamadou Diop (6-10, Sr.) is a big-time talent as a finisher and shot blocker and the 2025 CIF D3 State Player of the Year is in line for huge honors should the team meet expectations. Mohamed Toure (6-8, Sr.) is a nice complementary piece and if Oumar Dabo (6-7, Jr.) finds consistency to his offensive game, SGA could give some teams ranked above fits. The key to the engine is point guard Zach Arnold (5-11, So.), an all-state freshman choice last season who is among the best IQ play-makers in SoCal regardless of class. Xavier Wang (5-11, Sr.) and Sean Palmer (5-10, Sr.) round out the rotation for a team that meets No. 23 St. Bernard of Playa del Rey on Nov. 24 and highly-regarded Bishop Montgomery a week later.
14. (4) Salesian (Richmond) 28-3
Similar to No. 12 Harvard-Westlake, the Pride is taking a step back from where they have been positioned in recent seasons, but will be a dangerous team come playoff time. Coach Bill Mellis (697-189) has a team built in the mold of recent juggernauts and should once again be a NorCal open playoff participant. That mold is terrific guard play, quickness and tough pressure defense. While the graduation loss of NorCal Player of the Year Elias Obenyah and Grid-Hoop Player of the Year Carlton Perrilliat brings this team down a notch, Mellis is excited about this team’s shooting and is looking forward to seeing how it jells down the stretch. Asante Johnson (6-0, Sr.) is the top honors candidate and the player Mellis trusts the most when all the pieces get in place. Perhaps the most talented guard is Loyola-Chicago-bound N.J. Gray (6-0, Sr.), a transfer from Branson of Ross. Tayshaun Bozeman (6-3, Jr.) is another expected to take a jump to the next level and Miles Cooper (5-11, Jr.) is another transfer (all-state underclass at College Park Pleasant Hill) who adds depth. Juelz Richo (6-5, Jr.) will be counted on to do some of the things Perrilliat did with his all-around game, but ultimately how far this club goes could be determined by the interior work of transfers Julian Zaragoza (6-8, So.) of Davis and Marko Djurdjic (6-5, So.) of Northgate (Walnut Creek).
Brentwood’s Ethan Hill has the physical presence on the basketball court like a dominant tight end does on a football field. Photo: Mark Tennis.
15. (34) Brentwood (Los Angeles) 26-4
The Eagles didn’t get a lot of fanfare last preseason, but they ended up tying No. 16 Crossroads for the Gold Coast League title and have the bulk of their team back. Coach Moose Bailey has one of the best point guards in the state back in the fold in A.J. Okoh (6-0, Sr.). The team’s other returning all-state underclass choice is one of the toughest checks in the state in Ethan Hill (6-6, Jr.). Auggie Sugarman (6-2, Sr.) and James Langan (6-4, Sr.) are veterans and Moose’s coaching staff is excited about the improvement of Rocket Elzien (6-5, So.). The eventual champion of the Gold Coast League could be in line for a CIFSS open berth, especially if the section once again goes to 10 teams for its marquee playoff division.
16. (NR) Crossroads (Santa Monica) 17-12
The Roadrunners had high expectations last year (preseason No. 28), but didn’t really have all their pieces on the floor at the same time throughout the season. Coach Anthony Davis has the pieces in place to challenge for a CIFSS open berth, but the team must prove it is a better team than league nemesis L.A. Brentwood and No. 26 Windward. Shalen Sheppard (6-8, Jr.) is a big-time talent who missed time last season after his transfer from Brentwood and could take this team to the next level with consistency. Van Moczydlowsky (6-4, Jr.) is a fast-rising player with college coaches and transfer Noah Grossman (6-4, Jr.) is a quality scorer. The veteran at the point guard is Roman Esparza (5-11, Jr.). This team will test itself Dec. 4 against Allen (Texas), the Lone Star State’s top-ranked club, at the Take Flight Challenge at Redondo Union.
17. (22) Bakersfield Christian 24-12
Last season, coach Garrett Brown’s squad started off as the No. 3 CIF Central Section team, and it more than lived up to expectations, advancing to the CIF D2 title game in a rare intersectional matchup with No. 20 San Joaquin Memorial. BCHS did lose the rubber match, but will be a CIF D1 tile contender and that’s the regional division it should have been in last season. Brown has his club back en masse, led by all-state underclass pick Taiwo Daramola (6-9, Sr.), who showed in the state title run what type of two-way talent he is. The backcourt of Braelyn Smith (6-2, Jr.) and Caiden Jackson (6-1, Sr.) is one of the best in the state and Jeremias Killebrew (6-5, Sr.) is another honors candidate who is much improved. As if those are not enough horses, talented R.J. Shehee (5-11, Jr.) comes over from Bakersfield and gives this team another dimension with his toughness and ability. Brown really likes his defense and the various combinations he can throw at teams and will get to see where his team is right away when it hosts No. 8 Corona Centennial in its season opener.
18. (24) Sheldon (Sacramento) 27-6
The Huskies weren’t on our preseason radar last year, but qualified for the NorCal open playoffs, where they were a mainstay through the 2010s. This team will be better than the 2025-26 edition, but must show it has closed the gap with the other top NorCal clubs after getting blown out by St. Ignatius in a regional opener. The CIF San Joaquin Section D1 runner-ups are led by Baron Sabir (6-4, Sr.), the returning Sacramento Bee Player of the Year who averaged 24.2 ppg, 6.0 rpg and 1.5 spg as a junior and this summer showed why he is among the state’s best players. Kejshaun Brooks (6-8, Sr.) and Ryder Daniels (6-0, Jr.) are much improved, but it’s the newcomers that will allow this team to challenge No. 10 Modesto Christian for Sac Joaquin Section supremacy. Aeron Wallace (6-3, Sr.) from Notomas is capable of 20-point outings, P.J. Parker (6-9, Jr.) from McClatchy is one of the most talented players in his class regionally and Kayo Griffin (5-9, Fr.) has a bright future. Should all the pieces mesh, watch out for the Huskies when the post-season rolls around.
19. (9) Damien (La Verne) 32-7
The defending CIF D1 state champs drop down a notch due to heavy graduation losses, but they have a solid nucleus to work with to warrant this ranking. Besides, veteran coach Mike LeDuc (1,127-288 since 1979-80) had a team that played above preseason expectations last season so there is no reason it can’t do that again provided it replaces the interior defense of leading player Eli Garner (Idaho St.). Cal Baptist-bound and returning all-state underclass choice Zaire Rasshan is one of the best outside shooters in the state and the trio of JoJo Mariles-Jara (6-3, So.), C.J. Murray (6-3, Jr.) and JoJo O’Connor (6-0., So.) are gym rats who will display marked improvement. The Classic at Damien’s top division will include No. 4 Crespi, No. 5 Redondo Union, No. 8 Centennial, No. 9 La Mirada, No. 13 San Gabriel Academy and No. 14 Salesian, among others.
Dominick Olanrewaju is the top returning player for team that won last year’s CIF D2 state title. Photo: Mark Tennis.
20. (17) San Joaquin Memorial (Fresno) 28-7
The defending CIF D2 champs come in as our No. 3 team from the CIF Central Section after starting off No. 2 last year over the team it beat in the state final: Bakersfield Christian. BCHS has more returning firepower, but 2026 State Coach of the Year Brad Roznovsky (297-130) has a solid core and in recent years his teams have hovered in this range during the weekly rankings updates. Dominick Olanrewaju (6-5, Jr.) is an honors candidate on the wing while Ty Schalk (6-3, Sr.) is one of the best shooters in the section. Roznivsky will look for newcomer Roman Felix (6-8, So.) to provide some of the inside presence Parker Spees (UC-Irvine) did on last year’s team. Even though Felix is not as seasoned, he does have some unique skills. Donovan McCarthy (6-2, So.) is another highly-regarded newcomer for a team that will participate at the Clovis West Nike Invitational (Dec. 8-12) and the Tarkanian Classic (Dec. 18-22).
21. (NR) Moreau Catholic (Hayward) 23-6
The Mariners have an excellent team, but are looking for a stronger finish in the CIF North Coast Section playoffs after years of dominating the Mission Valley Athletic League. Look for Moreau’s streak of MVL titles to continue to 11, as coach Frank Knight’s program hasn’t lost a league game since the 2021 CIF spring season. Brendan Williams (6-10, Jr.) is one of the top post players in the state regardless of class and is just now tapping into his vast potential. He is surrounded by veterans on the perimeter in Isaiah Clendinen (5-10, Sr.), Kareem Jackson Jr. (6-1, Sr.) and Isaiah Dotson (6-2 So.). What could propel this team to the next level is the ability of Sebastian Atako (6-5, Jr.), one of the program’s best shooters in recent memory whose recruitment has picked up, and the contributions of Riordan transfer C.J. Ani (6-3, So.) after the sit-out period.
22. (30) Palisades (Pacific Palisades) 23-12
Last season the Dolphins won the program’s first major division L.A. City Section title since 1969 and should be better this season. They started off at No. 38 but were much better than their record indicated because of injuries and sit-outs. The reason for the optimism is the return of E.J. Popoola (6-5, Sr.) and Olujimi Popoola (6-5, Sr.), explosive talents who team with Phil Reed (6-1, So.) to give coach Jeff Bryant one of the best perimeter groups in the state. A.J. Neale (6-6, Sr.) is a cagy veteran who doesn’t get a lot of credit, but gets things done when Pali is in a dog fight. Jack Levey (6-0, Sr.) is the team’s best knock down shooter and will be needed for key moments at the Tarkanian Classic and Classic at Damien if the Dolphins are going to make waves at those two prestigious tournaments.
23. (NR) St. Bernard (Playa del Rey) 18-12
The Vikings were CIFSS open contenders under coach Tony Bland (now back in college coaching) earlier this decade and veteran mentor Bernard McCrumby hopes his program can get to that level this season. The first order of business is winning the Del Rey League title over clubs such as St. Anthony of Long Beach and St. Pius X-St. Matthias of Downey and the Vikings are in good position to do that with returning all-state guard and UC-San Diego commit Brandon Granger (5-11, Sr.). He’s a fearless competitor, terrific scorer and one of the state’s toughest checks. Two other players returning with all-league credentials are Chris Rupert (6-10, Sr.) and Khalon Burris (6-3, So.). McCrumby also has excellent interior depth to work with, as Jeremiah Agbahowe (6-5, Sr.), Garang Garang Macham (6-9, Sr.) and Jayden Harbin (6-9, Sr.) make this team dangerous as they navigate through seven showcase or tournament appearances before the playoffs.
24. (28) Parker (San Diego) 21-11
Head coach Mason Biddle’s team is the preseason No. 1 for San Diego County for the second consecutive season, but this time around hopes the open section title game goes in its favor. Last year, Parker lost to No. 31 Victory Christian in the title game and gave CIFSS D1 finalist JSerra all it could handle in the SoCal D1 playoffs. The optimism is built around all-state guard and New Mexico-bound Tavid Lee Johnson (6-3, Sr.), who is capable of near triple-double outings each game and has improved his consistency. Kai Jones (6-1, Jr.) flanks him in the backcourt and depth is provided by Columbus Palmer (5-10, Jr.) and talented newcomer Malik McClain Brown (6-2, Fr.). If this team can battle higher ranked teams on the glass, it will have a chance to move into the Top 20.
25. (29) Village Christian (Sun Valley) 24-7
The Crusaders are one of those talented teams that didn’t qualify for the regional tournament and were better than a vast majority of the state’s teams that did after losing in the CIFSS D1 playoffs. Coach Julian Andrade has a unit that should avoid that problem this year and is a contender for a high seed in this year’s D1 sectional bracket. It begins with Will Conroy Jr. (6-1, So.), last year’s state freshman of the year (26.7 pg) who continues to get stronger and more explosive. Village Christian had some big wins last season against higher ranked clubs (Crespi, Sheldon) and the key to beating higher ranked teams this time around and moving up is making teams pay for putting too much focus on Conroy. That will be determined by the abilities of Deion Lewis (5-11, Sr.), Mateus Silveira (6-7, Sr.) and Noah Poter (6-2, Sr.). Newcomers that could help take this team to the next level are Marcus Chen (6-5, Sr.) from San Marino and Taijohn Blunt (6-7, Jr.) from Palmdale.
Four-year starting big man Nick Welch Jr. of Rolling Hills Prep has signed with TCU. Photo: southbayhoops / Instagram.com.
The Next 15
26. (NR) Windward (Los Angeles) 18-12
Head coach D.J. Gay has been eyeing this season for two years, as he has a veteran club with three three-year regulars. Leading the lot is San Diego State-bound Davey Harris (6-6, Sr.), a second team all-state underclass choice who is one of the best players in the CIFSS. Djordan Hall (6-1, Sr.), Zion Willis (6-5 Sr.) and Jordan Hampton (6-2, Sr.) are also experienced veterans, while Asher Haloossim (5-11, Sr.) is fast rising and will make teams pay for putting too much focus on Harris. Windward’s personnel could be better than this spot, but it somewhat underachieved after starting No. 34 last year so we’ll slow play the Wildcats to start.
27. (26) De La Salle (Concord) 23-8**
We started coach Marcus Schroeder’s unit No. 36 last season but it performed at a higher level than forecasted so we’ll pencil the Spartans in right in that same range they finished this time around. Sparta hopes to once again qualify for the NorCal open playoffs, but after meeting the goal of a CIF North Coast Section title (it lost in the semis last season). Leading the way is USF-bound Davit Pachulia (6-4, Sr.), a dead-eye shooter and returning first team all-EBAL choice. Olanre Owoborode (6-8, Sr.) is a double-double candidate while Austin See (6-2, Sr.) is the backcourt veteran. This team will get a shot in the arm from Folsom transfer Parks Weaver (6-3, Jr.) while Noah Ladrech (6-5, Sr.) and Ashton Preston (6-6, Sr.) will play after high school and provide depth.
28. (10) St. John Bosco (Bellflower) 24-10
After starting in the Top 10 for four consecutive seasons (including No. 2 in both 2024 and 2025), coach Matt Dunn’s program (525-208) takes a step back rankings-wise to start this year. Of teams in this range, the Braves have a high ceiling to improve and if they end up being the No. 2 team fro the Trinity League, they’ll likely move up. Earning bigger roles this season will be Chace Patterson (6-3, Jr.), Will Hazelrig (6-7, Jr.) and Aaron Anderson (6-3, Jr.). Watch out for Inglewood transfer David Conerly (6-5, Sr.) while first year players Bryce Bible (6-8, Fr.) and King Harris (6-2, Fr.) come highly regarded.
29. (NR) Rolling Hills Prep (San Pedro) 23-7
The Huskies are competitive and after starting out at No. 27 in 2025-26 start in that range this season. They had some big wins, including veteran coach Harvey Kitani going over 1,000 career wins (1,002-313 career coaching record, not including forfeits), but also some losses they prevented them from moving up. This year, Rolling Hills Prep will look to be more consistent and it begins with TCU-bound all-state candidate Nick Welch Jr. (6-9, Sr.). If he has a big season that will open things up for newcomer Rudy Wang (6-7, Jr.). Carter Fulton (6-1, Sr.) is a blur in the backcourt while Cole Nakata (5-10, Sr.) offers experience.
30. (38) Millikan (Long Beach) 24-7
The Rams are another of the four talented teams that lost in CIFSS D1 quarterfinals and failed to qualify for the regional playoffs. The defending Moore League champs are looking for more this season and it begins with 2026 Moore League Player of the Year Quali Giran (6-0, So.). He’s capable of 25 ppg plus (24.2 ppg as a Fr.) but coach Stephon Price is looking for others to step to make this unit more formidable against a tough schedule. The best candidates are Max Anderson (6-5, So.), Cayden Brown (6-4, Sr.) and transfer Darius Dixson (5-10, Jr.).
Tristan Beechler is a 6-foot-4 point guard at Lincoln of Stockton and should help the Trojans mount a threat to Modesto Christian in the Tri-City Athletic League. Photo: Mark Tennis / Cal-Hi Sports.
31. (27) Victory Christian (Chula Vista) 28-5
The defending San Diego Section Open champs lost their stellar backcourt of D.J. Humphries and Jayden Gray to graduation, but a plethora of transfers has them in the mix with No. 24 Parker in their quest to repeat. St. Augustine of San Diego is always a threat, but Mission Bay of San Diego was hurt by the late coaching departure of Marshawn Cherry. The best of the transfers include Max Hackney (6-6, Sr.) from Malibu, Brooklyn James (6-8, Sr.), Tristan Anderson (5-9, Sr.) and Lamar Smith (6-6, Sr.). Anderson was all-state underclass at Olympian of Chula Vista.
32. (16) Etiwanda 26-5
After starting No. 32 last season, coach Danny Ryan’s group was better than forecasted and qualified for the CIFSS open playoffs but not the regionals because it didn’t win a pool play game. This team would have been in its final rankings range from 2025-26 had talented junior wing Achilles Orji not left for an Arizona Prep Academy. Still, the team is strong enough to begin right where it did last season behind the stellar backcourt of all-state underclass choice Devin Mitchell (6-3, Jr.) and Jacob Coleman (6-4, Jr.). Providing depth is Isaiah Benn (6-1, Sr.) and Jordan Cassell (6-1, Jr.), while Jordan Davis (6-6, Sr.) must get it done inside.
33. (NR) Loyola (Los Angeles) 16-16
The Cubs’ talent level could be a bit better than this spot, but keep in mind they come in as the No. 6 Mission League team in our rankings system. The losses could mount up, but if Cam Joyce’s club does start racking up league wins it can quickly move up. The scoring and work around the basket of Mattai Carter (6-3, Sr.), Randall Sanders (6-5, Sr.) and Omaro Cuffe (6-4, Sr.) is proven, but it’s the talented young backcourt of Mike Taylor Jr. (6-1, So.) and prized newcomer Yovar Shepard (6-0, Fr.) that will have to handle the rigors of the rugged league.
34. (NR) Lincoln (Stockton) 22-9
After winning the NorCal D1 title in 2025, the Trojans took a step back last season but are looking to challenge for the CIF Sac Joaquin Section D1 title and battle No. 10 Modesto Christian for the Tri-City Athletic League crown. Kenneth “Tre” Simmons (6-4, Jr.) is a returning all-state underclass choice and sit-out transfer Tristan Beechler (6-4, Jr.) is at the same level ability-wise as a big point guard. The depth is quality for coach Anthony Matthews as well with the likes of Quia Thompson (6-3. Jr.), Semaj Buford (6-4, Jr.) and Harper Matthews (6-3, So.).
35. (NR) Arcadia 23-6
The Apaches are similar to some teams in this range that are junior-dominated but must close the season stronger than it did in 2025-26. The defending co-Pacific League champs (with Pasadena) will be looking for more than just a league crown this year with the return of all-state underclass pick Owen Eteuati-Edwards (6-7, Jr.). Ajani Balogun (6-8, Jr.) is improved as is the coach’s son, Nick Wallace Jr. (6-0, Jr.), who has battled injuries in the off-season. Transfer Travis Walton Jr. (6-1, So.) is highly-regarded for a team that will test itself against nationally-ranked Vashon of Missouri in its second game.
36. (23) Corona del Mar (Newport Beach) 27-4
Harvard-bound Maxwell Scott is one of the top returning players in Orange County and should lead the Sea Kings to another outstanding season. The sharp-shooting guard already has the school record for career points at 1,785 and counting and had a school record last season with 44 points in a single game. Another top returnee is junior Grid-Hoop standout Nolan Scott, younger brother of Max. He’s coming off of a season on the gridiron that established him as a top D1 college prospect as a tight end. There are some holes to fill, however, with the graduation loss of guard Luke Mirhashemi (Colorado) and guard Oliver Nakra (school’s single season three-point record holder).
Corona del Mar’s Maxwell Scott should easily surpass 2,000 points scored for his career. Photo: seakingbasketball / Instagram.com.
37. (NR) Granada (Livermore) 21-9
The Mats will look to challenge No. 27 De La Salle for EBAL supremacy after all of their pieces are in place. Last season, EBAL club Amador Valley had a terrific team on paper (preseason No. 15) but it never came together, so head coach Quaran Johnson is looking for continuity between the veterans and newcomers. The best newcomer, of course, is Amador Valley’s Jaylen Smith (6-0, Sr.), who is bound for San Diego and is one of the best guards in the state. Brandon Hahn (6-7, Sr.), who was third team all-state underclass in 2025-26, is an intriguing talent to college coaches while depth is provided by a trio of sophomores: Malcolm Davis (6-3, So.), Melo Bempah (6-2, So.) and Quaran Johnson Jr. (5-9, So.), the coach’s son.
38. (NR) Cornerstone Christian (Antioch) 29-8
The defending CIF D3 state champs hope to gain hardware at a higher level this year as the bulk of the rosters returns for an encore run. Included are the team’s two best players: all-state underclass choice Benjamin Lukacs (6-2, Sr.) and James Perry (6-7, Sr.). The team will play in The Classic at Damien’s top division and in order for it to do any damage players such as Amari Woodard (6-2, Sr.) will need to step up.
39. (NR) Bishop Montgomery (Torrance) 24-3
The Camino Real League champions have a host of top returning players and should give longtime head coach Doug Mitchell (836-266 on-court record) a chance to develop a team that could go higher in the rankings. The Knights didn’t play a schedule as strong as others in SoCal, which is why they didn’t get ranked as high. Tarron Williams (6-5, Sr.) was the MVP of the league as a junior and twin brother Terron Williams (6-5, Sr.) was first team all-league. Both players display a motor that doesn’t quit on both sides of the ball. Austin Kirksey (6-4, Jr.) is a shooting guard who had several 20-point outings last season. Sophomore Marcel Quinn (6-2) is another player to watch.
40. (5) Santa Margarita (Rancho SM) 28-6
This last spot was tough to do, but we ended up wanting to use it to mention the Eagles, who finished No. 5 last season. Head coach Justin Bell has done a great job building the program, but the Eagles lost just about everyone to graduation. The list includes two-time all-stater Kaiden Bailey (Georgia Tech), Drew Anderson (Stanford) and Brayden Kyman (Washington State). Hudson Dannels (6-8, Jr.) had some standout performances in the fall and will look to lead Santa Margarita back into the upper echelon of the Trinity League. Bailey’s younger brother Krawford Bailey (6-4, So.) and Jakai Craig (6-0, Fr.) are building blocks for the future. Two other teams that almost snagged this spot that wouldn’t surprise us at all to move up quickly were St. Ignatius of San Francisco (25-5 last year) and Bishop O’Dowd of Oakland (23-8). Both will improve as the season wears on after a key transfer is integrated into the lineup. Another Trinity League team similar to Santa Margarita in losing a high number of top graduated players plus a key transfer would be JSerra of SJ Capistrano (24-14).
20 More Teams To Watch
(40) Bishop Amat (La Puente) 29-6
(NR) Bishop O’Dowd (Oakland) 23-8
(NR) Buchanan (Clovis) 27-5
(NR) Campbell Hall (North Hollywood) 12-16
(NR) Clovis 25-10
(NR) Clovis West (Fresno) 20-13
(11) Crean Lutheran (Irvine) 28-8
(39) Dougherty Valley (San Ramon) 23-11
(15) JSerra (San Juan Capistrano) 24-14
(37) King’s Academy (Sunnyvale) 26-5
(NR) Mission Bay (San Diego) 20-10
(NR) Mitty (San Jose) 17-11
(NR) Oak Hills (Hesperia) 16-11
(NR) Oakland Tech (Oakland) 23-11
(36) Rancho Christian (Temecula) 22-11
(NR) St. Anthony (Long Beach) 15-11
(NR) St. Augustine (San Diego) 14-16
(21) St. Ignatius (San Francisco) 25-5
(NR) St. Pius X-Matthias (Downey) 15-10
(NR) Torrey Pines (Del Mar) 20-14
Ronnie Flores is the managing editor of CalHiSports.com. He can be reached at ronlocc1977@gmail.com. Don’t forget to follow him on Twitter: @RonMFlores
