Top Teams to Watch at the 2025 Chipotle Nationals

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Chipotle Nationals, the culminating tournament that seeks to name the high school basketball national champion, is set to return to the Indianapolis area for the second straight year, with Hamilton Southeastern High School as the host from April 3-5.

Formerly called the National High School Invitational (2009-2013), Dick’s Nationals (2014-17), and GEICO Nationals (2018-23), Chipotle Nationals will showcase an eight-team bracket this season and will determine its 16th champion.

The lineup for this year is expected to primarily feature teams from the National Top 10, with all of the current top five teams likely to receive invitations. These teams include No. 1 Brewster Academy (Wolfeboro, N.H.), No. 2 Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.), No. 3 CIA-Bella Vista (Scottsdale, Ariz.), No. 4 Wasatch Academy (Mt. Pleasant, Utah), and No. 5 IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.).

In addition to the National Top 10 teams, three of the top four in the Top 25 are also anticipated to secure invitations: No. 1 Columbus (Miami, Fla.), No. 3 Calvary Christian Academy (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.), and No. 4 Gonzaga (Washington, D.C.).

Stay tuned for the official announcement in March, but for the time being, let’s delve into the eight teams projected to receive an invite.

Projected Chipotle Nationals field

Columbus (Miami, Fla.)

Record: 23-3
Top 25: No. 1
Projected seed: No. 1

Breakdown: The Explorers are on the path to winning their fourth consecutive state championship, having begun their journey with an impressive 93-54 victory against Doral Academy (Doral) in the opening round of the Class 7A state tournament. The roster features Top 25 Duke-bound players Cameron and Cayden Boozer, along with talented juniors Caleb Gaskins and Jaxon Richardson, forming a formidable starting five in the high school basketball landscape.

Brewster Academy (Wolfeboro, N.H.)

Record: 22-3
National Top 10: No. 1
Projected seed: No. 2

Breakdown: Although the Bobcats have suffered two defeats to unranked teams this season, they boast a commendable 5-1 record against teams currently recognized in the National Top 10 or Top 25. Standout players include three-star Stanford commit Ebuka Okorie, four-star Iowa State recruit Killyan Toure, top 40 junior Sebastian Wilkins, and three-star James Madison signee Preston Fowler. Brewster Academy is aiming for its first Chipotle Nationals appearance after moving up from the prep school circuit last year. Notably, top 30 Arizona signee Dwayne Aristode has been sidelined for the season due to injury.

Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.)

Record: 18-4
National Top 10: No. 2
Projected seed: No. 3

Breakdown: The defending champions may lack some star power compared to previous seasons, yet their roster remains filled with high-level talent capable of competing with any team nationally. The Eagles have a record of 5-4 against ranked opponents this season, with three of their losses coming against the top-ranked teams in their respective rankings. Key contributors include Top 25 Florida signee C.J. Ingram, four-star Villanova commit Dante Allen, top 50 Creighton signee Hudson Greer, top 75 Indiana recruit Trent Sisley, and five-star junior Kayden Allen.

Calvary Christian Academy (Fort Lauderdale, Fla.)

Record: 17-1
Top 25: No. 3
Projected seed: No. 4

Breakdown: There is some uncertainty regarding how Calvary Christian Academy’s association with Overtime Elite will influence its eligibility for the postseason. The Eagles clinched the championship at the Classic at Tennessee High School, achieving four consecutive wins against top 100 teams. They also performed admirably at the Montverde Academy Invitational, achieving a notable victory over National Top 10 No. 8 AZ Compass Prep. Top 30 Cincinnati signee Shon Abaev, top 25 sophomore Cayden Daughtry, and four-star junior Collin Paul are leading the team’s efforts.

Gonzaga (Washington, D.C.)

Record: 23-3
Top 25: No. 3
Projected seed: No. 5

Breakdown: The Eagles aim to become the second team from the Washington Catholic Athletic Conference to earn a berth in this prestigious tournament, following last season’s invite for Paul VI (Chantilly, Va.). They boast a 10-1 record in conference play and a key win over Top 25 No. 7 Roosevelt (Eastvale, Calif.). Important players include top 50 North Carolina signee Derek Dixon, top 60 Xavier signee Nykolas Lewis, and four-star Virginia Tech signee Christian Gurdak, along with three-star Harvard commit Alex Touomou and three-star Richmond signee William Harper.

CIA-Bella Vista (Scottsdale, Ariz.)

Record: 17-4
National Top 10: No. 3
Projected seed: No. 6

Breakdown: This emerging program has surpassed expectations this season, gaining national recognition after impressive early-season victories over National Top 10 No. 7 Prolific Prep and No. 10 Sunrise Christian Academy (Bel Aire, Kan.), in addition to winning the Beach Ball Classic championship. The standout player has been top 40 junior Miles Sadler, supported by four-star senior Jaion Pitt, junior guard Rokiem Green, senior guard Aginaldo Neto, and four-star junior Aliou Dioum. The team has four vital conference matchups ahead, including contests against National Top 10 No. 4 Wasatch Academy and No. 5 IMG Academy.

Wasatch Academy (Mt. Pleasant, Utah)

Record: 20-4
National Top 10: No. 4
Projected seed: No. 7

Breakdown: Despite being 2-2 against National Top 10 opponents, the Eagles have secured significant victories over No. 5 IMG Academy and No. 10 Sunrise Christian Academy, putting them in contention for their first Chipotle Nationals appearance since 2021-22. Wasatch Academy is guided by top 20 Houston signee Isiah Harwell, three-star junior Mariano Manciel, and four-star Class of 2026 talent Junior County, with support from top 70 junior Katrelle Harmon and senior guard James Miller. Crucial games against National Top 10 No. 5 CIA-Bella Vista Prep and Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.) could play a pivotal role in their postseason prospects.

IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.)

Record: 20-4
National Top 10: No. 5
Projected seed: No. 8

Breakdown: A critical stretch in the schedule looms for IMG as they prepare to face National Top 10 No. 5 CIA-Bella Vista, No. 6 Long Island Lutheran, and No. 2 Montverde Academy to conclude regular-season play. Currently, IMG Academy holds a 2-4 record against ranked opponents, with their roster highlighted by five-star Arkansas signee Darius Acuff, among others, brimming with talent, as they pursue their Chipotle Nationals ambitions.

Outside Looking In

AZ Compass Prep (Chandler, Ariz.)

Record: 16-7
National Top 10: No. 8

Breakdown: Despite finishing the season on a high note with significant victories over National Top 10 leaders Brewster Academy and Montverde Academy, the Dragons faced a series of losses throughout the year. To secure a spot in the championship event, AZ Compass Prep must perform exceptionally in the Nike EYBL Scholastic conference tournament.

Long Island Lutheran (Brookville, N.Y.)

Record: 16-5
National Top 10: No. 6

Breakdown: After an initial 3-5 record, the Crusaders have strung together an impressive 13-game winning streak and hold a 4-0 mark against nationally-ranked opponents during this stretch. Long Island Lutheran is poised for key matchups against Oak Hill Academy and National Top 10 No. 5 IMG Academy, which could enhance their chances of entering the competitive field with two victories.

Perry (Gilbert, Ariz.)

Record: 21-2
Top 25: No. 8

Breakdown: The team’s only defeats have come against the top two-ranked squads in the Top 25. Guided by top 10 senior Koa Peat, Perry is aiming for its fourth consecutive state championship.

Prolific Prep (Napa, Calif.)

Record: 24-5
National Top 10: No. 7

Breakdown: Recently, No. 2-ranked senior Darryn Peterson showcased his talent by scoring a career-high 61 points in a thrilling 88-86 win over Utah Prep (Hurricane, Utah). The Crew have experienced only two losses with the Kansas signee on the roster. Prolific Prep still has an opportunity to secure a place in the field if they can finish the season strong.

Past Winners

2009 (NHSI) — Findlay Prep (Henderson, Nev.)
2010 (NHSI) — Findlay Prep
2011 (NHSI) — Montrose Christian (Rockville, Md.)
2012 (NHSI) — Findlay Prep
2013 (NHSI) — Montverde Academy (Montverde, Fla.)
2014 (Dick’s) — Montverde Academy
2015 (Dick’s) — Montverde Academy
2016 (Dick’s) — Oak Hill Academy (Mouth of Wilson, Va.)
2017 (Dick’s) — La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.)
2018 (GEICO) — Montverde Academy
2019 (GEICO) — IMG Academy (Bradenton, Fla.)
2021 (GEICO) — Montverde Academy
2022 (GEICO) — Montverde Academy
2023 (GEICO) — Link Academy (Branson, Mo.)
2024 (Chipotle) — Montverde Academy

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Tufanua Ionatana Umu-Cais Joins 2026 Polynesian Bowl Roster
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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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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.
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Which Teams Are Leading Michigan High School Baseball This Week?
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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.
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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)
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3. Northville (14-1)
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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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