Sunshine State Showdown: Latest Florida High School Boys Basketball Rankings

Columbus vs Montverde Academy at the ESPN Showcase

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High school basketball is heating up across the nation, and the Sunshine State continues to showcase some outstanding action on the court. 

Curious about which teams to keep an eye on? We’ve got you covered with our latest Power 25 rankings for boys basketball in Florida. 

Here’s the full rundown on Florida’s top high school basketball squads for the 2024-2025 season according to our rankings.

Florida High School Boys Basketball Rankings: Feb. 5

1. Columbus (20-3)

Fresh off another Class 7A state championship, the Explorers are determined to cap off the Boozer twins’ tenure with one more title. This squad has strengthened its lineup with a slew of transfers. The Explorers claimed the top ranking after overcoming Montverde Academy, 59-57, in the City of Palms championship game a few weeks back.

2. Montverde Academy (16-4)

The extensive roster additions to the Eagles make them a candidate for the most talented team in the nation. Notably, the standout transfer to Montverde Academy is CJ Ingram, who is committed to Florida. The Eagles faced challenges with back-to-back losses against AZ Compass Prep and Columbus but have rebounded impressively with three consecutive victories.

3. IMG Academy (18-4)

Boasting talents like Arkansas commitment Darius Acuff Jr. and Syracuse commit Sadiq White Jr., the Ascenders continue to shine as one of Florida’s elite teams. Since suffering a loss to Brewster Academy National on January 18th, they’ve secured five straight victories, including a nail-biting overtime win against Link Academy.

4. Fort Lauderdale Calvary Christian (15-1)

The Eagles faced their first defeat of the season last week with a close 62-55 loss to Montverde Academy.

5. West Oaks Academy (18-10)

A few weeks back, we elevated West Oaks Academy in the rankings, thanks to their commendable performance throughout the season. Losing only by ten to Prolific Prep earlier reflects their strong potential and talent as a team.

6. St. Thomas Aquinas (24-2)

One of South Florida’s most accomplished programs features standout player Dwayne Wimbley Jr., committed to Florida State. Their only losses have come from North Broward Prep and St. Frances Academy of Maryland. The Raiders recently triumphed over Gibbs in the Kingdom of the Sun tournament championship and have an impressive eight-game winning streak, bouncing back from a January 20th loss to North Broward Prep.

7. Gibbs (21-4)

The Gladiators, last year’s Class 4A state champions, head into the season with the most talented lineup in the Tampa Bay area, featuring players like Jacob Daniels and O’Neal Delancy. Center Isaiah Medina rounds out what is proving to be a formidable Gladiators team. After a setback against St. Thomas Aquinas during the Kingdom of the Sun tournament, they have clinched 14 consecutive victories.

8. The Rock School (18-8)

The Rock School consistently fields a competitive team, and this season is no exception, with the return of Joseph Hartman (2026 3-star). In their most recent matchup, The Rock National secured a victory over DME Academy.

9. DME Academy (16-11)

DME Academy is hard to overlook with the talent returning this fall, particularly senior point guard Mikel Brown Jr. As they’ve played the most games of any team on this list, DME Academy’s latest contests included losses to IMG Academy and The Rock National.

10. Sagemont (15-8)

Sagemont is back with a capable roster from last season, featuring shooting guard Matthew Able, who has committed to the University of Miami (FL). Even though Sagemont has encountered a challenging stretch, losing two of their last three games to AZ Compass Prep and Utah Prep, they did secure a significant win against Riviera Prep.

11. Oak Ridge (15-8)

The Pioneers have faced formidable opponents this season, sustaining losses to top-ranked teams such as Montverde Academy, IMG Academy, Gonzaga, Duncanville, and Pebblebrook. Providence commitment Jamier Jones has emerged as the star player for the Pioneers after leading them to the Class 7A finals, with LSU commit Jameel Jones forming a strong backcourt duo alongside him.

12. Blake (20-4)

Another prominent team from the Tampa Bay area is the Yellow Jackets, who welcome back 2026 4-star forward Joe Philon. Blake was on a five-game winning streak until encountering a recent loss to Oak Ridge.

13. Evans (20-5)

The Trojans have improved their standings after a recent victory over Edgewater. Currently, Evans is positioning itself as one of Central Florida’s top teams, although they’ve faced two losses against Windermere.

14. Andrew Jackson (23-2)

The Tigers, who were the Class 4A state runners-up last year, have retained enough talent to make a deep playoff run this winter. After a setback against Ribault, Andrew Jackson has bounced back with several victories under their belt.

15. Riviera Prep (15-10)

Even with Dante Allen transferring to Montverde Academy, the Bulldogs are still anticipated to rank among South Florida’s elite teams. After losing two consecutive games, the Bulldogs faced only top-tier competition, including a battle against Sagemont.

16. Edgewater (16-8)

The Fighting Eagles were close to capturing the Class 6A title, and with their talented lineup, they have a strong chance of returning to the finals. New addition Darius Washington from Orlando Christian Prep enhances this formidable team. Edgewater’s eight losses have come against tough competitors including Blake, Columbus, Evans, Mater Dei (California), St. Thomas Aquinas, St. Joseph (California), and Riviera Prep.

17. Miami Northwestern (20-3)

Since a defeat to Ensworth (Tennessee) on December 29th, the Bulls have been on fire, winning 10 consecutive games.

18. Miami (19-4)

The Stingarees remain in our rankings after a narrow fourth loss to Miami Northwestern, 52-50. Miami Northwestern has established itself as one of South Florida’s best teams.

19. Gateway Charter (18-7)

The Griffins maintain their position in our rankings due to the caliber of competitors they’ve faced. After a loss to Blake on January 2nd, Gateway Charter has prevailed in 10 of their last 12 games.

20. The Villages (20-5)

Sophomore Aaron Britt Jr. has emerged as one of the standout players of the 2027 class, consistently posting an average of about 20 points per game. His latest performance helped lead the Buffaloes to a victory over Williston, with a score of 76-61.

21. Windermere (21-5)

After a close defeat to Lake Highland Prep at the start of the season, the Wolverines have proven to be one of the top teams in the state. The Trojans have also solidified their impressive record this season with two wins against Evans.

22. Charlotte (17-6)

The Fightin’ Tarpons have shown resilience, winning seven consecutive games since their January 14th loss to IMG Academy Gold.

23. Newberry (21-0)

For the first time this season, the Panthers have made their way into the rankings, entering district play with an undefeated record.

24. Sarasota (23-2)

Since their December 19th defeat against Palmetto, the Sailors have been on a roll, racking up 13 consecutive wins and establishing themselves as Sarasota County’s premier team this season.

25. Saint Andrew’s (23-2)

Senior Alex Montes stands out for the Scots, leading the scoring efforts with an average of 17.4 points per game this season.

  1. Athletic Highlights

    Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais Joins 2026 Polynesian Bowl Roster

    2026 Englewood Cherry Creek DL offer Tufanua Umu-Cais

    2026 Englewood Cherry Creek DL offer Tufanua Umu-Cais

    Englewood (Colo.) Cherry Creek defensive lineman Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais has received an invitation to participate in the 2026 Polynesian Bowl, as announced on Tuesday.

    The standout player from Colorado expressed his excitement about this honor.

    “Being selected to the Polynesian Bowl is a huge honor,” stated Umu-Cais. “It’s a recognition of all the hard work, dedication, and sacrifices I’ve made, and it means even more knowing how much pride and history are connected to the game. I have seen many players in the Poly Bowl and even players that are in the league now. It is truly special to be a part of something like that.”

    Umu-Cais is eager to immerse himself in the experience in Hawaii.

    “I’m extremely excited,” he said. “The Polynesian culture is so rich, full of pride, family, and tradition. I’m looking forward to learning more, meeting new people, and embracing everything the experience has to offer. I am extremely excited to immerse myself in the Poly community because it’s my culture. I can’t wait to really put on for my family as well as my community.”

    This will mark his first visit to the Aloha State.

    “I haven’t been to Hawaii yet, so this will be my first time,” Umu-Cais shared. “I’m really looking forward to it—the beauty, the culture, and the experience of a lifetime.”

    Additionally, Umu-Cais is enthusiastic about the opportunity to compete alongside some of the nation’s top talents.

    “I do not know the roster yet and what players are going to be attending, but I look forward to meeting them and also competing,” he noted.

    The roster for the 2026 Polynesian Bowl includes early invitees such as Immanuel Iheanacho, Faizon Brandon, DJ Jacobs, Myson Johnson-Cook, Brandon Arrington, Chris Henry Jr., Kendre Harrison, Cederian Morgan, Honor Fa’alave-Johnson, Xavier Griffin, Kelsey Adams, Jamier Brown, George Toia, and Jett Washington.

    The 2027 Polynesian Bowl will feature early invites including Elijah Haven, Trent Seaborn, and Marcus Fakatou.

    Launched in 2017, the Polynesian Bowl saw its first Offensive MVP awarded to former Stanford all-purpose back Connor Wedington, while Buffalo Bills defensive lineman A.J. Epenesa earned the Defensive MVP. The following year, Kyler Gordon from the Chicago Bears and Tanner McKee from the Philadelphia Eagles were named Co-MVPs.

    The 2019 contest awarded co-MVP honors to Daniel Heimuli, a linebacker from Arizona, and Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams. In 2020, Sol-Jay Maiava, the quarterback from BYU, and Meki Pei from Hawaii won co-MVP awards.

    The 2021 edition saw Travis Hunter from Colorado take home the offensive MVP title, while Jaishawn Barham of Michigan earned defensive MVP honors. In 2023, Nico Iamaleava, a quarterback from Tennessee, was named offensive MVP, and linebacker Andrew Harris garnered defensive MVP accolades.

    The 2024 game awarded offensive MVP to Mike Matthews from Tennessee and defensive MVP to David Stone of Oklahoma. Lastly, the 2025 contest featured co-MVPs on offense in Husan Longstreet from USC and Dakorien Moore from Oregon, while 2026 defensive lineman Deuce Geralds earned the defensive MVP honor.

    The tenth Polynesian Bowl is scheduled for January 16, 2026, in Honolulu and will be broadcasted by NFL Network.

    For more details on the 2026 Polynesian Bowl roster, go here.

    The eleventh Polynesian Bowl is slated for January 22, 2027, in Honolulu and will also be aired by NFL Network.

    For insights on the 2027 Polynesian Bowl roster, go here.

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  2. Athletic Highlights

    Creighton Secures Former MEAC Player of the Year Blake Harper

    DMV Hoop Session Interviews Suburban All Star Blake Harper

    DMV Hoop Session Interviews Suburban All Star Blake Harper

    Blake Harper, a standout freshman basketball player from Howard University, confirmed his transfer to Creighton University on Sunday through social media.

    Harper, who garnered both the MEAC Player and Rookie of the Year honors, shared his decision on Instagram @_bharp.

    “you can’t say i ain’t earn it??” he wrote. “RDJ”

    A Washington, D.C. native who previously played at Gonzaga College High School, Harper entered the transfer portal on March 24 and ultimately chose Creighton, turning down offers from LSU and Ohio State. Standing 6-foot-8, he also had the choice to return to Howard.

    Harper is set to join a Creighton team coached by Greg McDermott, who led the Bluejays to an impressive 25-11 overall record, including a 15-5 performance in the Big East Conference during the 2024-25 season. The Bluejays secured an NCAA Tournament spot and concluded the season ranked 24th in the USA Today Coaches poll.

    Throughout the 2024-25 season, Harper made an impact at Howard, starting in all 32 games and averaging 19.5 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 3.4 assists, contributing to the Bison’s 12-20 record, which included a 7-7 performance in the MEAC.

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  3. Athletic Highlights

    Which Teams Are Leading Michigan High School Baseball This Week?

    Bay City Western baseball ready for state semifinals

    Bay City Western baseball ready for state semifinals

    The Michigan high school baseball season has kicked off, and we’re here to deliver weekly rankings of the top teams across the state during the spring and summer months.

    Check out this week’s standout teams in the Mitten region.

    Michigan High School Baseball Rankings: Apr. 29

    1. Bay City Western (12-1)

    Bay City Western triumphed over Flint Powers Catholic 9-0 last Thursday but faced a setback with a 4-1 loss against Midland on Monday. The Warriors are gearing up for their next games against Lapeer on May 1 and Grand Blanc on May 5.

    2. De La Salle (12-2)

    The Pilots swept Auburn Hills Avondale on Saturday, winning both games 15-0, with game one ending after four innings and game two after three. De La Salle’s next challenge comes in the form of a doubleheader against Bloomfield Hills Brother Rice on April 30.

    3. Northville (14-1)

    The Mustangs notched wins against Hartland and two over Utica last week, followed by a victory against Howell on Monday. Northville is poised for a rematch against Howell on April 30.

    4. Dakota (11-4)

    After a heavy 10-0 loss to Rochester Adams last weekend, the Cougars bounced back with decisive wins against Sterling Heights Stevenson, claiming victories of 10-0 on Monday and 14-2 on Tuesday. Dakota is slated to face Stevenson two more times to wrap up their four-game series.

    5. Birmingham Brother Rice (11-6)

    The Warriors pulled off a sweep against Detroit Edison last week (2-0) and secured a 10-6 victory over Hartland on Friday. Up next, Brother Rice will face rival De La Salle for a doubleheader on April 30.

    6. Grosse Pointe South (18-2)

    With a win over Detroit Edison on Saturday, the Blue Devils set a new school record with their 15th consecutive victory. Although they stumbled against Anchor Bat on Monday, they have a chance for revenge on April 30 and May 1.

    7. Saline (15-1)

    The Hornets swept Chelsea in two games on Saturday and achieved a similar result against Ann Arbor Huron on Monday. With a five-game winning streak, Saline is stepping into the final match of their three-game series against Ann Arbor Huron on April 30.

    8. Orchard Lake St. Mary’s (10-8)

    OLSM traveled to Ohio over spring break, where they faced three games: an 8-7 defeat against Anthony Wayne, a 3-2 loss to Defiance on Saturday, and an 8-3 loss to Perrysburg later that day. The Eaglets are set to resume their Catholic League schedule on April 30 with a doubleheader against U of D Jesuit.

    9. Romeo (16-2)

    The Bulldogs are on an impressive seven-game winning streak, recently sweeping Stoney Creek on Saturday. They’ll look to maintain their momentum with a visit to Utica Ford next on May 1.

    10. Sterling Heights Stevenson (12-2)

    Stevenson is riding a three-game winning streak after defeating Anchor Bay twice on Saturday and mercying Dakota on Monday. The Titans will meet Dakota again on April 30 and May 1 before a brief pause, then face Utica Ford on May 5.

    11. Hudsonville (12-2)

    The Eagles wrapped up last week with a strong 5-1 record, including victories against Jenison and Rockford. Hudsonville is set to take on Rockford again on May 1 before hosting a doubleheader against Maple Valley the following day.

    12. Jenison (8-2)

    The Wildcats dominated Muskegon with a 15-0 win but narrowly lost to Hudsonville 9-8 last week. They split a doubleheader against Caledonia on Tuesday (W, 10-0; L, 3-2), with a rubber match scheduled for May 1.

    13. New Boston Huron (16-0)

    The Chiefs kept their unbeaten record intact last week with wins over Allen Park and Milan. They are set to play Flat Rock next on April 30 and have a matchup with Dearborn Divine Child on May 2.

    14. Detroit Catholic Central (10-6)

    The Shamrocks are currently on a four-game winning streak, most recently sweeping Portage Central on Tuesday. Up next, Detroit Catholic Central will face St. Francis de Sales in a doubleheader on April 30.

    15. West Bloomfield (8-3)

    The Lakers split a doubleheader with Rochester last week and followed that up with back-to-back wins against Groves, including an 8-1 victory on Tuesday. West Bloomfield will meet Groves once more on May 1 before taking on Stoney Creek on May 3.

    16. Dexter (13-6)

    The Dreadnaughts have struggled recently, dropping four of their last six games, including both matches in a doubleheader against Ann Arbor Skyline on Monday. They have another opportunity against Skyline on April 30 before heading to Adrian on May 3.

    17. Woodhaven (15-5)

    The Warriors have secured consecutive victories after experiencing two losses in a row, with their latest triumph coming against Dearborn Edsel Ford, winning 2-1 in a dramatic nine-inning game on Monday. Woodhaven’s upcoming opponents include Wyandotte on April 30, followed by Taylor on May 1.

    18. Rochester Adams (15-4)

    Rochester Adams holds a 2-2 record over its last four games, having recently suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Stoney Creek on Tuesday. The Highlanders have another chance to face Stoney Creek on May 2 before taking on Grosse Pointe North in a doubleheader on May 3.

    19. Trenton (13-3)

    The Trojans went 2-1 at the 9th Bob Kreszyn Classic on Saturday, achieving victories over Wayland and Flint Powers Catholic, with their only setback against Utica Ford. Additionally, Trenton triumphed over Taylor on Monday, and their next matchup is against Dearborn Edsel Ford on April 30.

    20. Midland (6-2)

    Midland upset the top-ranked team in the state, securing a 4-1 victory over Bay City Western on Monday. Despite a number of canceled games this season, the Chemics’ schedule is about to heat up, starting with a game against Davison on April 30.

    21. Pontiac Notre Dame Prep (9-5)

    Pontiac Notre Dame Prep faced a tough doubleheader against Flushing on Saturday, resulting in two losses, but bounced back on Monday with a solid 9-2 win over U of D Jesuit.

    22. Detroit Western (13-5)

    After a 12-7 win against Grosse Pointe North on Saturday, the Cowboys suffered an 8-3 loss to Grosse Pointe South later that day. However, they regained their momentum with a 5-2 victory over Cass Tech on Tuesday. Detroit Western is set to face Livonia Stevenson next on April 30.

    23. Grand Ledge (13-5)

    The Comets faced a tough defeat in a doubleheader against Okemos on Monday, breaking a four-game winning streak. Grand Ledge will aim to bounce back during a doubleheader against Lansing Everett on May 1.

    24. Mattawan (8-2-3)

    Mattawan has triumphed in four of its last five outings, although they faced a setback against Grandville, losing 4-3 on Saturday. The Wildcats will take on Gull Lake next in a doubleheader on April 30.

    25. Allen Park (8-5)

    The Jaguars managed to avoid a third consecutive loss by overpowering Lincoln Park with a decisive 15-0 win on Monday. Allen Park will look to build on this momentum as they prepare to host Taylor for a doubleheader on April 30.

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