At present Ballislife.com suggestions off its 2023-24 highschool basketball protection with our first installment of the preseason 2023-24 FAB 50 Nationwide Group Rankings. We start with groups No. 31-50.
Notice: The FAB 50 powered by Ballislife.com is a continuation of the Nationwide Sports activities Information Service rankings that started in 1952. These have been the primary nationwide highschool rankings and the late Artwork Johlfs of Minnesota compiled them. They have been compiled for a few years by the late Barry Sollenberger of Phoenix, who merged them into the FAB 50 24 years in the past.
Preseason 2023-24 FAB 50 Nationwide
Group Rankings Powered by Ballislife.com
By Ronnie Flores
(Ultimate 2022-23 rating in parentheses; *Signifies forfeit wins, forfeit losses not included; **Signifies forfeits and defaults not included; Search for preseason Area-By-Area Prime 20 Rankings on Tuesday, November 7 and for the preseason Mr. Basketball USA Tracker on Tuesday, November 21.)
RELATED: Preseason 2023-24 FAB 50 (1-15) | Preseason 2023-24 FAB 50 (16-30) | Preseason East Area Prime 20 | Preseason Southeast Area Prime 20 | Preseason Midwest Area Prime 20 | Preseason Southwest Area Prime 20 | Preseason West Area Prime 20 | Preseason FAB 50 Present (REPLAY) | Ballislife Podcast Community | FAB 50 Rankings Standards | Historical past of Excessive College Group Rankings
GO TO: No. 31 / No. 32 / No. 33 / No. 34 / No. 35 / No. 36 / No. 37 / No. 38 / No. 39 / No. 40 / No. 41 / No. 42 / No. 43 / No. 44 / No. 45 / No. 46 / No. 47 / No. 48 / No. 49 / No. 50
31. (45) Nook Canyon (Draper, Utah) 25-3
Key Gamers: PF Brody Kozlowski 6-7 2024 (No. 68 Rivals.com), C Taylor Feroah 6-6 2024, SG Isaac Neibaur 6-3 2024, SF Tyler Mortensen 6-4 2026, C Derelle Want 6-10 2024.
Why This Rating: The Chargers return three starters and 10 lettermen off a membership that captured the Utah Excessive College Actions Affiliation (UHSAA) Class 6A title with a 66-51 victory over American Fork. It’s not simply the amount of returnees, it’s the standard as Nook Canyon has among the best front-lines within the West Area. Kozlowski (17.7 ppg, 11.9 rpg, 65 3-point) made a nationwide splash ultimately yr’s State Champions Invitational (SCI) and may very well be in line for All-American honors with a giant season. Feroah (5.5 ppg, 3 rpg) performed loads inside final yr, however this yr he could turn out to be much more harmful stepping away from the basket and creating mismatches (29 3-pointers) due to the elevated dimension. Neibaur has expertise taking part in starter sort minutes off the bench and is thought for his defensive prowess. Mortensen is anticipated to have a breakout yr and will assist take this unit to the subsequent degree.
The Skinny: Comparable to some groups on this vary, Nook Canyon began on the FAB 50 bubble final season and pushed its approach into the rankings by successful a state state title and shedding solely to FAB 50 ranked foes. FAB 50 title contender Sidwell Buddies of Washington, D.C., beat them by seven factors within the SCI semifinals and the Chargers have to point out they’ll take down groups of that caliber to maneuver up. Coach Dan Hunt (470-332) loves his group’s probability to try this due to its dimension, general protection and taking pictures capabilities. Want comes over from Juan Diego (Draper, Utah) and has good versatility, good instincts across the basket and might face up and do harm. If Nook Canyon jells instantly, it ought to have the ability to fare properly in opposition to its nationwide foes. Nook Canyon performs highly-regarded Wheeler of Georgia on the 5 For The Struggle Nationwide Hoopfest (Nice Grove, Utah) on Nov. 20-21. It’ll additionally take part within the Vacation Hoopfest in Levi and can head to Florida to play within the long-running Kruel Basic.
32. (NR) Archbishop Ryan (Malvern, Pa.) 17-11
Key Gamers: C Thomas Sorber 6-9 2024 (No. 24 On3.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Georgetown commit), SG Darren Williams 6-4 2024 (Florida Gulf Coast commit), PF Jaden Murray 6-7 2024.
Why This Rating: The Philadelphia Catholic League is a gauntlet and the Raiders fee because the favorites over No. 40 Archbishop Wooden and Neumann-Goretti. It begins with Sorber, a returning all-PCL choice who averaged 17.8 ppg, 11.2 rpg, 2.5 apg, 4.5 bpg as a junior and confirmed properly in opposition to excessive main summer time competitors. Williams (15.9 ppg, 4.3 rpg, 2.9 apg) is one other honors candidate who can play a number of positions. Murray and Rocco Morabito (6-2, 2024) return to the beginning lineup and are scholarship gamers. Ryan Everett (6-0, 2024) additionally has loads of big-game expertise. “We’ve got versatility and depth and might management the paint on either side of the ground with Thomas Sorber,” coach Joe Zeglinski mentioned.
The Skinny: This membership has the depth essential to survive the catholic league and its nationwide schedule and in contrast to others who play in a weaker league, can simply bounce again from a loss. In addition they should take the subsequent step and seize a Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Affiliation (PIAA) state title after shedding handily to Imhotep Constitution within the Class 5A semifinals. As if the returning starters aren’t sufficient to get the job carried out, coach Zeglinski (130-72) may have Christian Dunham (6-3, 2024) for your complete season after he sat out the 2022-23 playoffs. Ryan additionally has Brandon Russell (6-4, 2025), an all-league switch from Pennington College (N.J.) and highly-regarded lead guard Semaj Stone (6-3, 2027). The Raiders will face highly-regarded Jackson-Reed within the first spherical of the Gonzaga Basic (Dec. 8-10) and can be severely examined on the Metropolis of Palms Basic in Florida, the place they open with main FAB 50 title contender Columbus. Win or lose, Archbishop Ryan will play a membership ranked larger than them of their second sport.
33. (22) Perry (Gilbert, Ariz.) 30-1
Key Gamers: PF Koa Peat 6-8 2025 (No. 3 Rivals.com, Ballislife First Group All-American), PG Barron Silsby 6-0 2024, PF D’Andre Harrison 6-5 2025, SF Trey McKinney 6-7 2025.
Why This Rating: The Pumas have been one sport away from severe FAB 50 title competition final season and return three starters and ten lettermen. We rank Perry as preseason No. 1 Arizona Interscholastic Affiliation (AIA) membership over Sunnyslope, Millennium and Desert Mountain after no AIA golf equipment have been ranked within the preseason final yr. With Peat again, there can be only a few, if any, video games this season the place veteran coach Sam Duane (468-198) doesn’t have the most effective participant on the ground. He’s already over 1,000 profession factors and is bodily as dominant as any entrance courtroom participant within the nation. The primary sophomore from an AIA program to earn All-American acclaim, Peat averaged 19.7 ppg, 9.4 rpg, 3.0 apg, 1.7 bpg and 1.3 spg. Silsby is a pure shooter who will assist to maintain defenses sincere in opposition to Peat, whereas Harrison is a D1 prospect whose board work and inside scoring can be key. “We all know easy methods to win after capturing back-to-back state titles and I believe we shoot the ball higher than final yr’s group,” Duane mentioned. “We’ve got expertise and are unselfish, however not as lengthy or athletic as final yr.”
The Skinny: We fee the Pumas because the No. 1 AIA group as a result of they’re the two-time defending state champions after downing Sunnyslope, 74-58, within the first ever AIA open division title sport. They’re additionally older and stronger than Sunnyslope and Desert Mountain, each of whom depend on a youthful core, and that may be essential versus a nationwide schedule. Peat netted 35 factors in final yr’s title sport, however how a lot they may miss Cody Williams (Colorado) stays to be seen. In any case, some really feel he’s among the best 2024 NBA Draft prospects on the market. That’s the place McKinney comes into play, because the play of the Walla Walla (Wash.) switch ahead may very well be the X-factor. One other newcomer who can impression video games is Bruce Department (6-4, 2027). Final season, even with out the premature loss to Pinnacle, the Pumas may solely climb so excessive due to their comparatively gentle schedule. That’s not the case this season, as they may face highly-regarded golf equipment Harvard-Westlake of California and Archbishop Stepinac of New York at Hoophall West in Scottsdale (Dec. 1-2), play within the Les Schwab Invitational (Dec. 27-30) in Portland Ore., with the likes of Harvard-Westlake and FAB 50 title contender Columbus of Florida, and tackle highly-regarded Grayson of Georgia on the Spalding Hoophall Basic in Springfield, Mass. (Jan. 13).
34. (34) Edmond North (Edmond, Okla.) 26-2
Key Gamers: PF Dylan Warlick 6-5 2024 (Ballislife Underclass All-American, Wyoming commit), PG Chiante’ Tramble 6-2 2024, SF Bryce Potts 6-6 2024, SG Dontrell Yearby Jr. 6-2 2024, PF Xavier Ross 6-8 2024.
Why This Rating: The Huskies fee because the top-ranked Oklahoma Secondary College Actions Affiliation (OSSAA) membership with 10 lettermen returning off a Class 6A title group. Warlick (18 ppg, 9 rpg) is the go-to participant and a strolling double-double who went for 16 factors and 17 rebounds within the state title sport. Yearby (8 ppg) is a team-first man who relishes the massive defensive task. Potts (8 ppg, 7 rpg) is a useful contributor on each ends of the ground. Ross (6 ppg) goes to tackle a much bigger function and Tatum Ridge (6-2, 2024) is an instant-offense participant for a group that appears to put on down foes with high quality paint touches. “We’re large and bodily and a dominant scoring group within the paint, however we have to enhance our 3-point taking pictures,” mentioned coach Scott Norris (445-201).
The Skinny: The Huskies are usually not laborious to peg as the highest OSSAA membership and No. 5 group from the Southwest Area, however their remaining rating can be decided by how properly they fare out-of-state. Final yr’s group began simply outdoors the FAB 50 because the No. 11 group within the Southwest Area, however their one level loss to FAB 50 ranked Religion Household of Texas predicated how excessive it may climb final season and their preseason positioning this one. Edmond North did lose standout T.O. Barrett to switch (Hyperlink Academy of Missouri), however add Tramble from Putnam Metropolis West. He’s a proficient player-maker who sported averages of 16 ppg and 6 apg as a junior. Jonathan “Slim” VanBuren (6-2, 2026) and Lukas Wooldridge (6-4, 2025) add to the depth. Edmond North will take part within the Match of Champions in Tulsa the place they may face Oklahoma’s different preseason top-ranked golf equipment reminiscent of Owasso or Dale and can enterprise to Springfield, Mo., for the Bass Professional Match of Champions (Jan. 11-13) in opposition to a area that features Cardinal Hayes of New York and FAB 50 title contenders McEachern of Georgia, St. John Bosco of California and Paul VI of Virginia.
35. (NR) St. Mary Prep (Orchard Lake, Mich.) 15-11
Key Gamers: SG Trey McKenney 6-4 2025 (No. 12 ESPN.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), PG Sharod Barnes 6-2 2025, SG Daniel “Bugsy” Smythe 6-3 2024, PF Jayden Savoury 6-6 2025, PG Isaiah “Zip” Hines 5-8 2025.
Why This Rating: The Eaglets are a sound alternative to start as No. 1 amongst Michigan Excessive College Athletic Affiliation (MHSAA) packages as they bought mainly everybody again from a group that superior to the D1 state semifinals. It regarded like Cass Tech can be proper within the combine, however when Darius Acuff left for IMG Academy of Florida, that made St. Mary Prep a better alternative. There isn’t a query now McKenney is the highest junior guard within the state, as he was named the 2022-23 Michigan A.P. D1 Participant of the 12 months after upping his freshman averages of 16.9 ppg and 6 rpg to 25.4 ppg and 11.1 rpg. He may not match these numbers as a result of the productiveness of his teammates will go up a notch with one other yr of expertise below their belt. In line with coach Todd Covert, McKenney has improved as a decision-maker in pick-and-roll, and labels Smythe among the best shooters within the state. He’s additionally bullish on the underclass veterans, as Barnes, Hines and Savoury have all lately picked up D1 presents. “Our prime seven gamers return after a Ultimate 4 look final yr,” Covert mentioned. “We’re an skilled group and battle-tested.”
The Skinny: With its expertise, expertise and custom, there isn’t a purpose why St. Mary Prep can’t seize the Catholic League title and go two steps additional to seize the MHSAA D1 state crown. After opening up at No. 39 within the FAB 50 in 2020-21 and No. 47 in 2021-22, St. Mary Prep was unranked in 2022-23 and toiling alongside earlier than catching hearth within the playoffs. That playoff run set the tone for this season, however coach Covert is a bit involved about complacency and out of doors distractions. There’s loads of expertise and if everybody does their job this group may have alternative to maneuver up. As if the returnees are usually not sufficient, the Eaglets add Peyton Kemp (6-1, 2027) and Quincy Wright (6-5, 2027). Kemp is a top-shelf level guard prospect whereas Wright can play each forwards spots. St. Mary Prep will compete within the Motor Metropolis Roundball Basic, the D.C. Hoopfest and the Oakland County Showcase.
36. (NR) Hudson Catholic (Hudson, N.J.) 16-12
Key Gamers: PG Tahaad Pettiford 6-1 2024 (No. 21 Rivals.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Auburn commit), PG Ahmad Torrence 6-3 2026, PG Omari Moore 6-3 2025, PF Javon Rampersant 6-7 2026.
Why This Rating: The Hawks return 10 lettermen from a group that by no means actually fairly jelled however has sufficient expertise and firepower to warrant this spot. Pettiford is likely one of the main causes for the optimism, as he is likely one of the quickest, most fun and highly-regarded guards within the nation. He missed many video games as a junior whereas recovering from a torn meniscus and is keen to show he’s McDonald’s All-American worthy. He averaged 18.4 ppg as a sophomore and 16.7 ppg, 3.1 rpg and three.1 apg for New Heights on the 2023 Nike EYBL circuit. This perimeter-oriented group additionally returns Torrence, a budding star who can easily get to the basket or arrange teammates. Moore already has D1 presents and is a slashing finisher with a pleasant pull-up sport. Alex Massung (6-1, 2024) and Saad Mitchell (6-2, 2026) present further depth. If this group works the boards and pushes tempo, be careful.
The Skinny: Hudson Catholic should begin behind Don Bosco Prep, the group it fell to in final season’s New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Affiliation (NJSIAA) North Non-Public A quarterfinals. Sure, the loss rely was excessive, however that may simply come down this yr so long as Pettiford is within the lineup. With Dave Boff shifting on from perennial FAB 50 energy Roselle Catholic and Camden graduating a stellar senior class, the NJSIAA pecking order is as extensive open as we’ve seen in years and we’ve got a hunch the Hawks are primed for a giant yr. Additionally preserve an eye fixed out for St. Rose of Belmar, which superior to the Non-Public B state title sport with a largely underclass lineup. As for Hudson Catholic’s inside, Rampersant is flanked by Chadd Dubois (6-4, 2025) and that duo must step up to ensure that the Hawks to outlive an always-tough schedule.
37. (NR) St. Ignatius (Cleveland, Ohio) 19-8
Key Gamers: PF Damon Friery 6-9 2025 (No. 126 On3.com), SF Sam Springer 6-7 2024, PF Reece Robinson 6-8 2024 (Cleveland St. commit), PG Quinn Woidke 6-1 2025.
Why This Rating: The Wildcats are available in because the No. 2 Ohio Excessive College Athletic Affiliation (OHSAA) membership behind highly-regarded Richmond Heights on the energy of proficient returnees and an impression newcomer. Coach Cam Joyce (a former participant at Northwood and the son of St. Vincent-St. Mary coach Dru Joyce II) likes his group’s mixture of taking pictures and dimension. The inside is led by Friery (14.0 ppg, 4.1 rpg) and Robinson (8.1 ppg, 6.5 rpg), the latter the son of Cleveland St. coach Daniyal Robinson. Springer (4.5 ppg, 3.5 rpg) has labored laborious to enhance his sport and is sneaky athletic as a stretch-four. St. Ignatius has loads of firepower, however is seeking to shore up its backcourt for a deep playoff run.
The Skinny: As excessive as Joyce is on his depth on the wings, he’s a bit involved in regards to the depth in his backcourt. Jack Zapolnik (6-0, 2024) averaged 5.2 ppg as a junior and is anticipated to up his manufacturing whereas Woidke can be a pleasant shot within the arm. He’s able to 20-point plus outings and had a terrific summer time after lacking final season as a result of harm. If Zapolnik and Woidke discover the fitting chemistry and switch Kalli Johnson (6-3, 2025) from Booker T. Washington (Tulsa, Okla.) blends in with the veterans, this group can be laborious to beat come playoff time. Different OHSAA D1 contenders embody Centerville, Hilliard Bradley and Garfield Heights, the group that knocked out the Wildcats in a D1 regional semifinal contest. St. Ignatius will get its shot at extremely regarded membership and defending D4 state champ Richmond Heights on the Scholastic Play-By-Play Showcase. The Wildcats additionally face highly-regarded Oak Ridge of Florida on the Flyin’ To The Hoop in Dayton, Ohio (Jan. 14).
38. (NR) Bullis (Potomac, Md.) 26-5*
Key Gamers: PG Tyler Boston 5-10 2024 (Holy Cross commit), SF Cayden Diggs 6-7 2024 (No. 86 On3.com, Outdated Dominion commit), PF Jewel Walker 6-4 2024 (Ohio St. commit lacrosse), C Eric Reibe 7-0 2025 (No. 86 On3.com), SG Adrien Stevens 6-4 2025 (No. 136 On3.com).
Why This Rating: There’s loads to love off a group with three returning starters and eight lettermen again that doesn’t have a evident weak spot. The Bulldogs cracked the FAB 50 because the fourth membership from the DMV, which may have 5 and even six groups ranked practically every preseason, as we like the very fact they’re senior-oriented and highly-motivated. Boston is the catalyst, a seasoned lead guard whose toughness is barely matched by his smarts. Boston was second 5 All-Met by the Washington Submit in 2022-23. Diggs is a terrific slasher who relentlessly takes defenders off the bounce and is primed for a giant senior marketing campaign. Walker is a stud within the land of the giants, always working the glass and doing what it takes for his group. The group’s depth additionally helps push one another in follow. “We’ve got good follow habits, benefit from the sport and being round one another, however our late follow begin date (Nov. 13) places us behind a few of our competitors,” coach Bruce Kelley mentioned.
The Skinny: This group isn’t well-known on the nationwide circuit, but it surely doesn’t matter they only come to beat groups and go dwelling with out a lot fanfare. Their particular person expertise is far the identical approach; they don’t seem to be the highest-ranked, however the beginning 5 goes to go away highschool with scholarships. One more reason why like Bullis is it has true expertise at every of the 5 positions. Reibe didn’t play a lot as a sophomore due to a late enrollment, however he was a standout in the course of the grassroots and June scholastic reside durations and the P5 presents are beginning to roll in for the 250-pound seven-footer. Stevens is a terrific defender with a budding offensive sport. Depth is supplied by Jayson Peterson (6-7, 2025), Angelo Dickerson (6-2, 2026), Luke Salzman (6-6, 2024) and switch Darren Moore Jr. (6-1, 2025). The Bulldogs, who play a difficult schedule together with a visit to the D.C. Nationwide Hoopfest and Hoophall East, ought to seize the Interstate Athletic Convention (IAC) and are extremely motivated to win the Maryland Personal College State Match. Final season, in its inaugural yr, Bullis was the No. 1 seed however was shocked within the quarterfinals by No. 8 seed Mt. Zion Prep of Lanham.
39. (BB) Brother Rice (Bloomfield Hills, Mich.) 22-2
Key Gamers: SF Elijah Williams 6-6 2026 (No. 3 ESPN.com), SF Warren Marshall IV 6-4 2024 (Oakland commit), PF Luke Salkowski 6-6 2024, PF Chase Van Ameyde 6-6 2024 (Notre Dame commit baseball).
Why This Rating: The Warriors have sufficient returning firepower and a particular switch to warrant this spot because the No. 7 group from the Midwest Area. Coach Rick Palmer (68-36) has two returning starters and 9 lettermen off a group that spent a while FAB 50 ranked earlier than an upset loss within the Michigan Excessive College Athletic Affiliation (MHSAA) D1 playoffs. Marshall is a combo guard with dimension who can play upfront or provoke offense. The most important factor for him to show is management and expertise in crunch time conditions and he’s embraced the function now that three proficient seniors have graduated. Van Ameyde is a big-time pitcher on the diamond, however on the hardwood he’s a returning starter who does the little issues essential to win. Salkowski is a traditional late bloomer who regardless of taking part in JayVee as a tenth grader, can be taking part in school basketball due to his work ethic and shot-making skill. Jeremiah Caffey (6-3, 2024) is one other participant anticipated to tackle a much bigger function.
The Skinny: The Warriors captured the Michigan Catholic Excessive College League title, however fell to sizzling St. Mary Prep within the district remaining, 57-50, once they have been No. 1 ranked within the state. This preseason, St. Mary Prep is deserving of the highest spot, however don’t rely out the Warriors regardless of the commencement of Curtis Williams (Louisville), John Blackwell (Wisconsin) and Xavier Thomas (Toledo). Palmer loves his group’s inside energy and athleticism and if Elijah Williams is nearly as good as marketed, this group may transfer up within the rankings. Williams is taken into account among the best prospects within the 2026 class and makes the transfer to Brother Rice now that his father Monty Williams is the brand new coach of the Detroit Pistons. Trevor Smith (6-8, 2026) is one other switch (from Okemos) and is a future D1 participant. The veteran guards can be pushed by Ace Walters (6-1, 2027), the son of former NBA guard Rex Walters.
40. (NR) Archbishop Wooden (Warminster, Pa.) 19-9
Key Gamers: SG Jalil Bethea 6-5 2024 (No. 7 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Miami commit), PG Josh Reed 6-3 2024 (Drexel commit), SG Milan Dean 6-4 2025.
Why This Rating: The Vikings have three starters and 7 lettermen getting back from a membership that misplaced to Roman Catholic in each the semifinals of the Philadelphia Catholic League and PIAA Class 6A state event. Roman Catholic is a bit down, however Neumann-Goretti is a membership that together with the Vikings can be within the thick of the PCL race with No. 32 Archbishop Ryan. Bethea leads the title hopes after averaging 23.2 ppg, 7.8 rpg and 4.3 apg as a junior whereas exhibiting this summer time he has an out of doors shot at Mr. Basketball USA honors if Wooden performs as much as expectations. Reed is a proficient combo guard who can go inside for robust buckets or seize offensive rebounds. Dean is one other returnee with all-league credentials and is thought for his vertical pop. “I like our guard play, shot-making and toughness, however our lack of peak is a priority,” mentioned coach John Mosco (184-73).
The Skinny: This group will not be fairly to the extent of the 2020-21 Wooden membership that opened No. 9 within the FAB 50 and performed to that degree earlier than shedding within the PIAA Classs 6A remaining to Studying by a degree, but it surely’s very proficient and might make some noise on a nationwide scale. The inside rebounding must be by committee and Wooden will look to drive tempo and depend on the depth created by Deuce Maxey (6-1, 2025), Mike Inexperienced (5-10, 2025), Brady McAdams (6-3, 2025) and Brian Donahue (6-3, 2026). It’s not simple to depend on freshmen within the PCL, however the progress and manufacturing of Jaden Jenkins (6-8, 2027) may very well be important in opposition to the higher groups on the schedule. Along with the PCL wars and a sport with public league kingpin Imhotep Constitution, Wooden will check itself on the D.C. Nationwide Hoopfest (Dec. 9-10), the King Cotton Basic in Pine Bluff, Ark. (Dec. 27-29), and on the Spalding Hoophall Basic (Jan. 13), the place it takes on highly-regarded Centennial of Corona, Calif.
41. (4) Ben Davis (Indianapolis, Ind.) 33-0
Key Gamers: PG Mark Zackery IV 6-0 2025, SG Ok.J. Windham 6-3 2024 (No. 119 247Sports.com, Northwestern commit), C Kaleb Milan 6-9 2025.
Why This Rating: The Giants have sufficient again from a historic season to as soon as once more problem for the coveted Indiana Excessive College State Athletic Affiliation (IHSAA) Class 4A crown. Final season, they grew to become Indiana’s first group to win 33 consecutive video games and end unbeaten with a state title, however should substitute a effective senior core. Kokomo is the IHSAA Class 4A front-runner, however we give the Giants a slight nod because the No. 2 Indiana squad over Cathedral, a group that started No. 13 in final season’s FAB and needs to be sturdy as soon as once more. Ben Davis has Zachary (6.6 ppg, 2.1 apg) again and he needs to be able to go as soon as soccer season ends the place he’s a D1 defensive again prospect. He’s an instinctual and aggressive athlete who went for 16 factors within the state title sport win over Kokomo and also can distribute. Windham (8.4 ppg) is a terrific shooter who also can guard a number of positions. Six lettermen return in complete from a program that is aware of easy methods to win below Don Carlisle, who additionally received a state title as a participant for the Giants (1995 and 1996) within the outdated one-class system.
The Skinny: The Giants will miss Zane Doughty (Ball State), who stepped up in opposition to Kokomo star Flory Bidinga within the state title sport. So, do the Giants have a legit shot at repeating? “We’ve got an excellent probability,” Carlisle mentioned. “We solely misplaced two video games in your complete program and I’ve some actually good sophomores and some guys from the JayVee that may contribute instantly.” Milan, a switch from Scecina Memorial in Indianapolis, provides the frontline a significant enhance and is a constant double-double menace on this lineup. Additionally search for level guard Jahmir Avery (6-0, 2025) and Mark White (6-3, 2024), rebounder and athlete, to take a step ahead as a senior. Carlisle is at present on administrative go away over a bodily encounter involving a scholar in fitness center class, and if he doesn’t return it will likely be a blow and distraction to the group’s repeat probabilities. The Giants could not go unbeaten and should overcome any potential off-court distractions, however have simply sufficient for a professional shot to be the primary program to repeat in Class 4A since Carmel in 2012-13.
42. (NR) Mater Dei (Santa Ana, Calif.) 29-7
Key Gamers: SF Brandon Benjamin 6-5 2025, PF Brannon Martinsen 6-8 2026 (Ballislife Underclass All-American), PF Blake Davidson 6-8 2025, SG Luke Barnett 6-2 2026, SG Owen Verna 6-3 2025.
Why This Rating: The Monarchs fee as a stable No. 3 amongst California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) golf equipment behind FAB 50 title contender Harvard-Westlake and CIF open contender St John Bosco. They’re underclass-dominated however fairly proficient and motivated to compete for CIF Southern Part and state open crowns. Martinsen (12.4 ppg, 4.6 rpg) is likely one of the finest gamers in California’s gifted 2026 class and nonetheless has room for loads of enchancment. Benjamin, who averaged 22.5 ppg and eight.7 rpg at close by Canyon of Anaheim, is artful and expert and suits in completely to educate Gary McKnight’s offense that emphasizes motion with out the ball and shot choice. Davidson completes the frontline and may very well be in retailer for a breakout season after taking part in a complimentary function final yr. Verna (10.2 ppg) is a terrific spot-up shooter and Barnett (9.9 ppg) performs like a cagey veteran regardless of his youth.
The Skinny: From a rankings standpoint, Mater Dei has a whole lot of work to do, however can be loads higher than final season when a few streaks ended. The Monarchs didn’t qualify for the CIFSS open playoffs for the primary time because it started in 2013-14 they usually additionally noticed their state-record 34-year consecutive league title streak finish. McKnight, who’s now 1,243-134 since 1982-83 with 11 CIF state crowns and 39 league titles in these 41 seasons, additionally welcomes again veteran guard Brady Karich (6-2, 2024) and Utah Tech-bound Scotty Belnap (6-5, 2024). An underclass-oriented St. John Bosco membership was the group that ended the league streak and JSerra and Santa Margarita can even be formidable within the Trinity League this season. Profitable league can be key earlier than Mater Dei can take into consideration the CIFSS open playoffs, the place No. 44 Roosevelt, No. 46 Sierra Canyon of Chatsworth, Sherman Oaks Notre Dame additionally loom as contenders, together with defending part champ Corona Centennial and defending state champ Harvard-Westlake.
43. (NR) Bishop O’Connell (Arlington, Va.) 16-14
Key Gamers: SF Bryson Tucker 6-7 2024 (No. 12 On3.com), SF A.J. Swinton 6-6 2024 (No. 106 Rivals.com, Florida State commit), SG Quincy Wadley 6-4 2026 (No. 15 ESPN.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American).
Why This Rating: The Knights rely 9 lettermen getting back from a membership that completed in the course of the pack of the Washington Catholic Athletic Convention (WCAC) race. It ain’t simple successful the WCAC crown and it has been ten years since Bishop O’Connell final received the tourney title. Paul VI and Gonzaga are front-runners, however we just like the Knights and DeMatha Catholic to problem in a yr the place perennial contender St. John’s is reeling from transfers and the sickness of coach Pat Behan. Veteran coach Joe Wootten, who enters his twenty fifth season having received sport No. 500 final season (510-256), had a younger membership that skilled rising pains and may use that have to its benefit this season. It provides Tucker, a streaky expertise who performed a partial season at IMG Academy in Florida final season. He’s an easy scorer with a terrific basketball I.Q and proficient sufficient to earn all-WCAC honors if the Knights problem for the convention crown.
The Skinny: This membership is deep and versatile and if Tucker is locked in with the veterans it may very well be a particular marketing campaign. Swinton is a flexible expertise that may play upfront, deal with the ball and has an improved perimeter sport. He was terrific in fall leagues for a group that may run and employs an efficient full-court press. Final yr, Wootten carried three freshmen and it was obvious Wadley is a particular expertise. In truth, he was ok to earn all-WCAC honors after averaging only a shade below 15 ppg. He’s one other participant with large guard capabilities with deep vary in addition and already proficient sufficient to earn USA Basketball mini-camps and occasion invitations. It’s been 11 years since a Melo Trimble-led O’Connell membership captured the WCAC crown. Earlier than that, the Knights final received the title in Wooten’s fifth season (2003-04) and maybe omen for this season was that membership 20 years can also be the final time the O’Connell was ranked within the preseason proper on this vary (No. 44).
44. (NR) Roosevelt (Eastvale, Calif.) 23-7
Key Gamers: SF Brayden Burries 6-5 2025 (No. 12 247Sports.com), SG Darnez Slater 6-4 2024, PG Isaac Williamson 5-11 2025, PG Myles Walker 5-10 2025.
Why This Rating: The Mustangs may very well be main gamers for the CIF Southern Part open division title together with No. 42 Mater Dei and No. 46 Sierra Canyon, with defending champ Harvard-Westlake of North Hollywood and highly-regarded St. John Bosco of Bellflower the early main contenders. Coach Steve Singleton has loads of offensive firepower on his roster led by Burries, a bodily specimen and among the best underclass gamers within the nation. It received’t be lengthy earlier than he’s thought of among the best, no matter class, and with a giant season may very well be a California Mr. Basketball candidate. Slater is a proficient scorer in his personal proper who strikes properly with out the ball and also can take defenders off the dribble. With these two, Roosevelt will create loads of matchups issues and create open photographs for Williamson and Walker, who praise one another properly and provides Singleton the choice to go to a much bigger lineup when Walker is out of the sport.
The Skinny: Beneath Singleton, this program received the CIF D1 state crown in 2016-17 and completed simply outdoors of the FAB 50 at No. 14 within the West Area and this membership has the potential to be higher. Clearly, it’s going for the open crown on the part and regional degree however may have its work reduce out for it to knock off the groups in its vary and the three from California ranked forward. Burries and Williamson didn’t play final season due to residency points at their old skool and can be wanting to compete in significant video games. Williamson is a knock down shooter, however he and Walker, a switch from close by J.W. North of Riverside, have to point out consistency on the perimeter (they are typically streaky) to ensure that Roosevelt to maneuver up. Singleton (who coached Dominguez of Compton to a D2 state crown and No. 17 FAB 50 rating in 2000-01) additionally has to get stable manufacturing on the inside from Kevin “Tochi” Anigbogu (6-9, 2024), a switch from Centennial of Corona, to fulfill expectations. We’ll discover out alot about this group and the West Area pecking order at The Basic at Damien the place Roosevelt will compete with the likes of No. 50 Owyhee, St John Bosco and highly-regarded golf equipment American Fork of Utah and Sunnyslope of Arizona, amongst others.
45. (NR) South Grand Prairie (Grand Prairie, Texas) 20-14
Key Gamers: PG Cam Carroll 6-2 2025, SF Cam Paul 6-7 2025, SG A.J. Borden 6-4 2024.
Why This Rating: We just like the Warriors because the third College Interscholastic League (UIL) group within the FAB 50 proper in entrance of UIL kingpin Duncanville, as final season’s younger squad is a yr older and higher. Coach Brandon Bennett returns a whopping 11 lettermen from final yr’s membership that misplaced to Highland Park within the Class 6A, Area I bi-district playoffs. Main the way in which is Carroll, a bodily, attacking guard that is aware of easy methods to get downhill to attain or arrange others. Borden compliments him properly, as he can publish up smaller guards inside and is a terrific defender. Paul is an athletic wing scorer who also can work the boards inside. He also can preserve protection sincere as a pull-up shooter and has a excessive ceiling, which is the case for this complete group.
The Skinny: It’s an in depth name however we just like the Warriors proper in entrance of Duncanville because the second-to-last group from the Southwest Area within the rankings. Bennett has three wonderful gamers and depth with a group that may actually get after it defensively and solely misplaced two seniors that have been function gamers. South Grand Prairie has proven properly in fall leagues, however has loads of work to do and should win the Area I, District 8 title to compete with the likes of San Antonio Brennan, Plano East and No. 47 Duncanville for the UIL Class 6A state crown. Ought to the Texas groups on this vary falter, Vashon and Chaminade of Missouri are sturdy golf equipment that may have an excellent probability to crack the rankings.
46. (NR) Sierra Canyon (Chatsworth, Calif.) 23-11
Key Gamers: PG Justin Pippen 6-4 2024, SG Isaiah Elohim 6-5 2024 (No. 34 Rivals.com), PF Noah Williams 6-6 2024, SF Bryce Cofield 6-5 2025 (No. 132 On3.com), C Majok Chuol 7-0 2024.
Why This Rating: The fifth and remaining CIF group to crack the rankings are the Trailblazers, a bodily and harmful group that’s keen to point out the nation they’ll nonetheless compete at a nationwide degree regardless of the commencement of a powerful senior class. With LeBron James Jr. having graduated there received’t be as many cameras and fanfare round, in fact, however Sierra Canyon can be a troublesome playoff out. That’s due to the maturation of Pippen and the bodily energy of its excessive degree team-oriented protection. Pippen is likely one of the most improved gamers within the nation together with his clean and unselfish strategy and good outdoors taking pictures, Cofield is a downhill attacker who advantages on offense from the alternatives created on protection and Williams is one other team-first weapon. If Chuol continues creating and supplies first-rate rim safety, this can be a group few will wish to see come playoff time.
The Skinny: The Trailblazers are preseason FAB 50 ranked for the ninth consecutive season, but it surely wasn’t a straightforward determination. They must present they’ll get by fellow Mission League foe Notre Dame of Sherman Oaks and compete with defending part and state open champ Harvard-Westlake. We critically thought of Arizona golf equipment Sunnyslope and Millennium of Arizona for one of many remaining FAB 50 spots, however the Trailblazers soundly defeated each golf equipment in fall league and have been simply extra bodily than a lot of the opponents they confronted as common season tune-ups. In addition they performed a majority of the autumn with out the companies of Elohim, a veteran participant and gifted scorer who at the moment final yr was thought of some of the gifted gamers within the nationwide senior class. He’s a talented and deliberate offensive participant and the way he meshes with the core when he comes again will dictate a whole lot of what occurs with this group down the road. No matter its make-up, Sierra Canyon’s protection received’t take a time off and this group is taking part in with a chip on its shoulder to point out the media and followers they’ll compete at a excessive degree with out worrying about all of the social media consideration the group has garnered in current seasons.
47. (3) Duncanville (Duncanville, Texas) 28-1
Key Gamers: SG Kayden Edwards 6-2 2025 (No. 55 Rivals.com), SF B.J. Davis-Ray 6-6 2025 (No. 36 Rivals.com), PF Cam Smith 6-7 2025.
Why This Rating: Sure, the commencement losses are heavy, however don’t look now as a result of the Panthers will nonetheless be a participant on a nationwide scale due to their expertise base, custom and training. They’ve been the UIL’s finest group for 5 years operating and have a junior core that would make a run at one other Class 6A state crown. Edwards is a lefty that’s quick with the ball in his arms on the level and a inventive scorer who can get sizzling in a rush when he’s off the ball. He’s flanked by Davis-Ray, a scoring wing with dimension that could be a matchup nightmare. Each Edwards and Davis are nationally-known to recruiters and Smith is properly on his approach. He’s simply scratching the floor of his potential, as he can go and shoot and is even higher as a switchable defender who excels contesting photographs on the perimeter and across the rim. Duncanville additionally prides itself on good group protection and that may assist it keep in shut video games.
The Skinny: This yr’s unit received’t be nearly as good because the final two Duncanville groups that opened up No. 7 in 2021-22 and No. 8 in 2022-23, however the Panthers don’t need to be to have a shot on the UIL Class 6A crown. After dropping out of the UIL playoffs final yr proper after the preseason FAB 50 dropped, and taking part in a nationwide schedule, the Panthers are actually eligible for the post-season and can be contenders in a wide-open race for the Class 6A crown. Along with No. 45 South Grand Prairie, different Class 6A contenders on the FAB 50 bubble embody Stony Level of Spherical Rock and W.T. White of Dallas. One more reason to love Duncanville on this spot is the return of coach David Peavy, the architect of the 2021-22 FAB 50 Nationwide Championship group who was suspended for one season after the UIL stripped Duncanville of its 2022 state crown. In 2020, the Panthers weren’t capable of end the season due to the outbreak of COVID-19, received all of it in 2021 when it completed No. 10 within the FAB 50, have been stripped of the title two seasons in the past and didn’t play for one final season, so they’re wanting to get again within the winner’s circle. Peavy has the expertise to do it, it’s only a matter of jelling on the proper time down the stretch.
48. (24) Bellevue West (Bellevue, Neb.) 29-0
Key Gamers: SG Jaden Jackson 6-1 2024 (South Dakota St. commit), PF Robby Garcia 6-7 2025, PG Eldon Turner 5-10 2024 (Wayne St. commit), C Jacob Arop 6-6 2024.
Why This Rating: The Thunderbirds deliver again sufficient (eight lettermen) to fee because the No. 1 Nebraska College Actions Affiliation (NSAA) membership and No. 8 group from the Southwest Area. Josiah Dotzler is now at Creighton, however Jackson is able to step up and lead within the quest for back-to-back Class A state titles after averaging 14.7 ppg, 3.3 rpg, 2.3 apg and 1.8 spg as a junior. He’s a terrific spot-up shooter and a ball-hawk on protection. Garcia (9.2 ppg, 5.6 rpg) is a clutch participant and can take a step up after being the third scoring choice final season. Turner (5.8 ppg, 3.4 rpg, 3.2 apg, 1.7 spg) is the consummate play-maker and confirmed enchancment over the summer time. Arop (5.7 ppg, 4.4 rpg) is a Grid-Hoop stud who provides this group a presence inside to take strain off the scorers.
The Skinny: The Thunderbirds opened at No. 10 within the Southwest Area final season, however exceeded expectations in slowly rising into the Prime 25. Bellevue West received all however one sport final season by double-digits with a median successful margin of 26 ppg. It received’t be as dominant this season, but it surely merely doesn’t need to be in its quest for a state title. We like coach Doug Woodard’s membership due to its expertise, steadiness and this system’s successful pedigree. If the Thunderbirds make it to the state title sport as soon as once more, it will likely be a fifth consecutive journey to the NSAA Class A state remaining. This membership will play highly-regarded Dawn Christian Academy on the Heartland Hoops Basic (Feb. 10) and can hit the street to face No. 49 Totino-Grace.
49. (NR) Totino-Grace (Fridley, Minn.) 24-8
Key Gamers: SF Isaiah Arigu-Johnson 6-7 2024 (No. 91 On3.com, Miami commit), SF Dothan Ijadimbola 6-6 2026 (No. 34 On3.com).
Why This Rating: The Eagles have sufficient firepower and flexibility to return in because the No. 9 group from the Midwest Area. Coach Nick Carroll (114-57) has two mainstays upfront returning and a number of terrific underclass expertise in his backcourt. After a terrific summer time, Arigu-Johnson holds presents from everywhere in the nation due to his terrific grades and budding sport. Ijadimbola is a flexible athlete and defender who’s simply scratching the floor of his potential. One other highly-regarded wing is Tyler Wagner (6-6, 2025), athlete and pull up shooter who works laborious on his sport. The backcourt is a piece in progress, however Chace Watley (6-1, 2025) comes highly-regarded and Tian Chatman (6-4, 2026) is already a well known commodity. He has a slick deal with, good crossover and might get to the basket or arrange teammates. He’s the youthful brother of Ohio St. freshman Taison Chatman, the star of final yr’s championship group.
The Skinny: After capturing their first ever Minnesota Excessive College League (MHSL) state title in 2021-22, the Eagles have been on a roll, capturing back-to-back Class AAA titles. This system did lose three scholarship gamers off its 2022-23 group, however Carroll and the remainder of the teaching workers feels the personnel’s potential to three-peat is in place and much from the No. 1 difficulty. “Our versatility is our greatest energy,” Carroll mentioned. “We’ve got six rotation gamers 6-foot-5 or greater and everybody shoots it. New management can be our greatest adjustment.” One more reason to love the Eagles is their aggressive schedule. The younger guards are going to need to be prepared instantly, because the Eagles play in opposition to defending MHSL Class AAAA champ Wayzata on the Breakdown Tip-Off Basic. They can even have two aggressive contests on the Mike Miller Basic and host No. 48 Bellevue West.
50. (NR) Owyhee (Meridian, Idaho) 21-6
Key Gamers: SG Liam Campbell 6-5 2024 (No. 76 ESPN.com, USC commit), PF Jackson Rasmussen 6-7 2025, SG Boden Howell 6-4 2025, PG Logan Haustveit 5-11 2026.
Why This Rating: For the second consecutive season, we start the storm at No. 50. Final season, they have been only a shade below that degree, however the expertise of taking part in at a nationwide degree can pay dividends this season. Coach Any Harrington (107-29) returns 4 starters from a membership that misplaced two video games in-state and needs to be deeper and play much more uptempo, along with being a yr older and stronger. Campbell is likely one of the finest gamers within the West Area and Rasmussen is one other all-state expertise who has expanded his all-around sport from final season. Howell is able to large scoring outputs as a multiple-level scorer whereas Haustveit is a future scholarship level guard who additionally makes use of his instincts and toughness to excel as a defensive again in soccer. Owyhee narrowly edges out a number of sturdy California golf equipment and Sunnyslope of Arizona within the West Area pecking order.
The Skinny: We had the fitting thought final yr, however the mistaken group, as Owyhee misplaced early within the season decisively to Lake Metropolis of Coeur d’Alene. That dropped the Storm out of the rankings as the primary group from Idaho in 36 years of our weekly polls, however for perspective Lake Metropolis went on to complete unbeaten at 26-0 and No. 40 within the FAB 50 because the Idaho Excessive College Actions Affiliation (IDHSAA) Class 5A champions. There isn’t a doubt Idaho groups have elevated their profile in current seasons because the state’s inhabitants grows, so there’s a good probability there may very well be one other one FAB 50 ranked for the second straight season after 36 years of being shut out. One other membership to look at is Hillcrest of Idaho Falls, which went 25-1 and captured the Class 4A title. Each golf equipment can be at The Basic at Damien in SoCal, the place Owyhee has gone 5-3 within the prime division the previous two seasons. Different main West Area contenders that can be there in La Verne, Calif., after Christmas are FAB 50 title contender St. John Bosco, Sunnyslope and No. 44 Roosevelt. The Storm additionally host the Professional Picture Vacation Basic (Dec. 15-17), which incorporates Hillcrest and highly-regarded California golf equipment Centennial of Corona and Salesian of Richmond.
RELATED: Preseason 2023-24 FAB 50 (1-15) | Preseason 2023-24 FAB 50 (16-30) | Preseason East Area Prime 20 | Preseason Southeast Area Prime 20 | Preseason Midwest Area Prime 20 | Preseason Southwest Area Prime 20 | Preseason West Area Prime 20 | Preseason FAB 50 Present (REPLAY) | Ballislife Podcast Community | FAB 50 Rankings Standards | Historical past of Excessive College Group Rankings
Notice: The FAB 50 powered by Ballislife.com is a continuation of the Nationwide Sports activities Information Service rankings that started in 1952. These have been the primary nationwide highschool rankings and the late Artwork Johlfs of Minnesota compiled them. They have been compiled for a few years by the late Barry Sollenberger of Phoenix, who merged them into the FAB 50 24 years in the past.
Ronnie Flores is the nationwide Grassroots editor of Ballislife.com. He will be reached at [email protected]. Do not forget to comply with him on Twitter: @RonMFlores
