DC Metro & East Coast Hoops: Preseason Top 25 Breakdown
The 2025-26 high school boys basketball season is on the horizon, and The Sporting News has unveiled its highly anticipated preseason Top 25 rankings. While Florida teams dominate the top spots nationally, the DC metropolitan area and wider East Coast region are well-represented with powerhouse programs and future collegiate stars ready to make their mark.
National Powerhouses to Watch
Missouri’s Link Academy debuts at No. 1, showcasing a formidable roster that includes five-star small forward Tajh Ariza (Oregon commit) and future talents bound for Gonzaga, Kansas, Michigan State, Mississippi State, and Missouri. They aim to build on last year’s Nike EYBL tournament championship run. Close behind are several Florida giants, including defending national champion Columbus (Miami, FL) at No. 2, Prolific Prep (Fort Lauderdale, FL) at No. 3, and IMG Academy (Bradenton, FL) at No. 4, underlining the Sunshine State’s current dominance in prep basketball.
Local Pride: DC Metro Area Teams Shine
For basketball fans in the Washington D.C. area, there’s plenty to cheer about in these national rankings. Several nearby programs are positioned to have outstanding seasons, bringing top-tier talent and exciting matchups to our doorstep.
Bishop McNamara Mustangs (Forestville, MD) – No. 12
Leading the charge in Maryland, Bishop McNamara enters the season at No. 12 nationally. Head coach Jayde Gavin will rely on a strong senior class, including four-star talents SF Qayden Samuels and CG Prince-Alexander Moody (Indiana commit). Junior four-star PF Brandon Woodard also adds significant firepower, making the Mustangs a team to watch closely.
Paul VI Panthers (Chantilly, VA) – No. 19
Just across the Potomac, Virginia’s Paul VI Panthers secure the No. 19 spot. Their national title aspirations hinge on senior five-star combo guard Jordan Smith, a top prospect in the Class of 2026. Coach Glenn Farello’s team is looking to overcome last year’s semifinal exit in the VISAA Division 1 playoffs and capture a state championship.
Montverde Academy’s DC Connection
While based in Florida and ranked No. 6, Montverde Academy has a significant link to our local basketball scene. Their new head coach, Steve Turner, spent 21 successful years coaching at Gonzaga College High in Washington, D.C. His transition to Montverde brings a familiar face and proven leadership to one of the country’s elite programs.
Other Notable East Coast Contenders
Further north, Long Island Lutheran (Brookville, NY) comes in at No. 5, featuring five-star CG Dylan Mingo. New York also sees Archbishop Stepinac (White Plains, NY) debut at No. 7, bolstered by four-star senior guards Jasiah Jervis (Michigan State) and the Ratliff twins (USC commits), presenting strong regional competition.
Key Storylines and Players to Watch
Beyond the rankings, the upcoming season is rich with compelling narratives. The movement of top coaches, like Steve Turner to Montverde and Kevin Boyle to SPIRE Academy (No. 9), signals a shifting landscape in prep basketball. Players like Link Academy’s Tajh Ariza, Paul VI’s Jordan Smith, and Prolific Prep’s Bruce Branch III (the nation’s top 2027 prospect) are poised for breakout seasons and will be key in their teams’ quests for national glory. The battle for supremacy in states like Florida, California, and Arizona will also be a major draw, featuring deep rosters and intense rivalries.
DC Metro Area High School Basketball Teams in Top 25
| Team (Location) | SN Preseason Rank | Key Player(s) | 2024-25 Record |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bishop McNamara (Forestville, MD) | #12 | Qayden Samuels (SF), Prince-Alexander Moody (CG) | 14-15 |
| Paul VI (Chantilly, VA) | #19 | Jordan Smith (CG) | 27-6 |
| Montverde Academy (FL) (DC Coach Connection) | #6 | Joe Philon (PF), Jayden Hodge (SF) | 19-8 |
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which team is ranked #1 nationally?
Link Academy from Branson, Missouri, holds the top spot in The Sporting News’ 2025-26 high school boys basketball preseason rankings. - Are any DC metro area teams in the Top 25?
Yes, Bishop McNamara (Forestville, MD) is ranked No. 12, and Paul VI (Chantilly, VA) is ranked No. 19, bringing national attention to our local talent. - Who is Steve Turner and why is he relevant to DC fans?
Steve Turner is the new head coach for Montverde Academy (ranked No. 6). He spent 21 successful years coaching at Gonzaga College High in Washington, D.C., making his new role a point of local interest. - Where can I watch these high school basketball games?
Many high school basketball games, including those featuring top-ranked teams, are streamed live on the NFHS Network. - Why are so many Florida teams highly ranked?
Florida boasts six teams in the preseason Top 25, including four of the top six, due to a concentration of elite talent, dedicated basketball programs, and successful recruitment strategies.
As the high school basketball season tips off, keep an eye on these nationally ranked teams, especially our local contenders in Maryland and Virginia. The 2025-26 season promises thrilling matchups and a chance to witness future college and professional stars right here in the DC metro area.
DC East Coast High School Preseason Top 25
