Preseason 2023-24 FAB 50: Teams No. 16-30!

We proceed our 2023-24 preseason FAB 50 Nationwide Workforce Rankings powered by Ballislife.com countdown with an in-depth take a look at groups No. 16-30.

Word: 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 Workforce Rankings Powered by Ballislife.com

By Ronnie Flores

(Last 2022-23 rating in parentheses; *Signifies forfeit wins, forfeit losses not included; **Signifies forfeits and defaults not included; Search for preseason Area-By-Area High 20 Rankings on Tuesday, November 7 and for the preseason Mr. Basketball USA Tracker on Tuesday, November 21.)

GO TO: No. 16 / No. 17 / No. 18 / No. 19 / No. 20 / No. 21 / No. 22 / No. 23 / No. 24 / No. 25 / No. 26 / No. 27 / No. 28 / No. 29 / No. 30

16. (9) AZ Compass Prep (Chandler, Ariz.) 23-7Key Gamers: SG Jamari Phillips 6-3 2024 (No. 23 247Sports.com, Arizona commit), PG Jeremiah Fears 6-3 2025 (No. 22 ESPN.com), PG Del Jones 6-2 2024 (No. 66 ESPN.com, Clemson commit), PF Sammie Yeanay 6-8 2024 (No. 91 ESPN.com), C Luke Bamgboye 6-10 2024 (No. 123 Rivals.com), C Ethan Lathan 6-11 2024 (No. 116 Rivals.com, Outdated Dominion commit).Why This Rating: The Dragons joined the NIBC final season and have been instantly pegged as a FAB 50 nationwide title contender due to their expertise degree. The Dragons had an up-and-down common season, however ultimately made it to the GEICO Nationals title recreation the place they fell to eventual FAB 50 champion Hyperlink Academy. This season, expectations are a bit extra tempered due to roster turnover and a brand new teaching workers. Ed Gipson is now at San Jose St. after seven seasons on the helm of this system. New coach Pete Caffey is a well-recognized face across the program, however he’s implementing loads of new issues. “Nothing can take away from the season we had final yr, however what I’d wish to see is extra continuity,” Caffey stated. The Dragons defeated then No. 1 Montverde Academy early within the season and rose to No. 1 within the FAB 50 themselves, however misplaced 4 convention video games to complete tied for third place with IMG Academy of Florida, two video games behind second place Lengthy Island Lutheran of New York and three behind first place MVA. Caffey has one returnee in Phillips, one of many higher scorers within the nation who really wasn’t on the crew but when the Dragons knocked off MVA. Caffey is kind of glad together with his lead guard state of affairs, as he feels Fears is the very best nationally in his class, whereas Jones brings that DMV toughness. AZ Compass has a fame for getting after it on the defensive finish and Bamgboye offers them an anchor within the center, so the perimeter gamers can get after it figuring out there’s rim safety. Lathan is a conventional heart and provides to that inside protection and helps maintain Bamgboye on the ground when it issues down the stretch. Yeanay is flexible and regardless that he can hit the trial 3-pointer, Caffey is stoked he can play and guard on the wing and inside ought to he resolve to go to a smaller lineup.The Skinny: Not solely is there a brand new coach, however just like NIBC member IMG Academy, the Dragons misplaced some gamers off final yr’s roster with remaining highschool eligibility, so we’ll take a wait and see method earlier than propping them up too excessive within the rankings. That turnover allowed Caffey to assemble the roster as he needs, and he’s glad his crew has extra inside measurement and can rely much less on excessive share 3-point capturing. “We misplaced some scoring, however we didn’t have the inside depth. This yr, we’ve got 5 guys over 6-foot-8,” Caffey stated. The offense can also be a bit extra free-flowing and most significantly, Caffey hopes he doesn’t have to regulate his rotation a lot because the season wears on. Added depth is supplied by ahead Jayce Nathaniel (6-8, 2024), who performs with a excessive motor and might get after it on the glass or in transition. The teaching workers can also be excessive on small ahead Imarhi Wootten (6-5, 2026). The Dragons additionally get some rankings credit score for his or her current showings at GEICO Nationals, the place they’ve a 3-3 (.500) file total and can be a shoo-in to qualify for GEICO Nationals for the fourth consecutive season. The schedule consists of an early take a look at with defending FAB 50 champion Hyperlink Academy of Missouri on Nov. 21 as a part of the 5 For The Battle Nationwide Hoopfest (Nice Grove, Utah). The Dragons have an MLK Monday date on the Spalding Hoophall Basic with FAB 50 title contender Lengthy Island Lutheran, along with the common NIBC stops.

17. (25) De Pere (De Pere, Wis.) 29-0 Key Gamers: PF Will Hornseth 6-9 2024 (Northern Iowa commit), SG Zach Kinziger 6-3 2025 (No. 121 247Sports.com, Wisconsin commit), PF Ben Willihnganz 6-8 2024, SF Pryce Gregoire 6-5 2025.Why This Rating: It wasn’t a lot that the Redbirds received their first Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Affiliation (WIAA) state crown since 1934, it was the way by which they did that propelled them into the 2022-23 High 25. Coach Brian Winchester’s membership defeated preseason FAB 50 ranked and defending D2 champ Pewaukee en path to setting a WIAA file for many wins in an undefeated season. Winchester counts three starters and 10 lettermen returning led by Hornseth (16.6 ppg, 5.7 rpg, 2.5 apg) and Kinziger (15.4 ppg, 3.9 rpg, 2.9 apg). Hornseth is a terrific athlete and all-around expertise, whereas Kinziger went for 19 factors within the state title recreation victory over Arrowhead of Hartland. Willihnganz (5.7 ppg, 3.6 rpg, 2.1 apg) is the third returnee, and his stats are a bit deceiving as a result of he missed a lot of the season with a knee harm. Count on his manufacturing to go up together with Grgoire’s (6.2 ppg), who may develop right into a D1 prospect with a giant yr. “We’ve got superb size and athleticism,” Winchester stated. “Our core are all gifted, faculty degree gamers who play each ends of the ground at a excessive degree.”The Skinny: Kinziger did have a giant state title recreation, but it surely was his brother, 2023 Wisconsin Mr. Basketball John Kinzinger (Illinois St.), who had 24 factors and was the catalyst. De Pere has to interchange his manufacturing, to not point out the management of an important senior class, but it surely ought to have the ability to and is deserving of this spot. Collin Wicker (6-5, 2024) is primed for a giant senior season and depth and capturing comes within the type of Roan Demovsky (6-0, 2025) and Connor Hutjens (6-2, 2025). This system’s 21-1 JayVee crew may also assist the Redbirds get after it defensively to the extent they need. “With our returning varsity gamers and additions from a very good JayVee crew, we’ll have a number of gamers who can house the ground with their capturing,” Winchester stated. The Redbirds received’t enterprise too removed from residence, so they will should play as much as expectations and keep away from any in-state slip ups to maneuver up from this place.

18. (NR) Don Bosco Prep (Ramsey, N.J.) 26-3 Key Gamers: SG Dylan Harper 6-6 2024 (No. 2 247Sports.com, Ballislife Second Workforce All-American), C Keiner Asprilla 7-0 2026 (No. 18 On3.com), PG Isaiah Brown 6-0 2024.Why This Rating: There may be loads of expertise and much more incentive for a membership that had a terrific 2022-23 common season marketing campaign, however noticed all of it come crashing down within the New Jersey Faculties Interscholastic Athletic Affiliation (NJSIAA) Non-Public A semifinals. The Ironmen confronted Bergen Catholic and have been upset by that membership after simply downing them within the Bergen County title recreation, 71-49. Coach Kevin Diverio’s membership will get the nod as the highest preseason NJSIAA membership over No. 36 Hudson Catholic, because it has the most effective gamers within the nation within the fold. Harper averaged 24.9 ppg, 6.0 rpg and three.0 apg as a junior and had a terrific summer time on the EYBL circuit and with USA Basketball’s 19U Workforce in Hungary. Some really feel he’s the second greatest participant within the senior class after Montverde Academy’s Cooper Flagg and with a giant season may develop right into a Mr. Basketball USA candidate. Brown is a four-year contributor and a tricky buyer who’s able to double-digit performances with assists. Asprilla is oozing with expertise and potential and might be the difference-maker within the huge contests due to his energy and talent inside.The Skinny: The Ironmen didn’t end FAB 50 ranked final season due to the upset playoff loss, however wanting over their resume it was fairly a season. Don Bosco Prep defeated FAB 50 No. 23 Centennial of California on its method to profitable the John Wall Vacation Invitational and solely misplaced to No. 12 Camden and to No. 21 and Non-Public B state champ Roselle Catholic earlier than the loss to a Bergen Catholic crew it had already defeated thrice. Along with Harper, Brown and Asprilla, Diverio returns six different lettermen, together with Brady Longhlin (6-5, 2025), a high quality capturing guard who’s quickly selecting up D1 presents whereas Will Mensah (6-5, 2024) provides inside depth. Don Bosco Prep has to clearly shut robust, but additionally should present properly in nationwide occasions to maneuver up within the rankings. It is going to get its alternative on the Metropolis of Palms Basic, the place the Ironmen open with No. 21 McEachern and will face FAB 50 title contender Lengthy Island Lutheran within the quarterfinals in the event that they get previous that decide’em first spherical recreation.

19. (31) St. John Bosco (Bellflower, Calif.) 26-7 Key Gamers: PG Elzie Harrington 6-5 2025 (No. 10 Rivals.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), SG Brandon McCoy Jr. 6-4 2026 (No. 2 247Sports.com), SG Jack Turner 6-3 2024 (Loyola-Chicago commit), PF Kade Bonam 6-8 2025.Why This Rating: It was a breakthrough season for coach Matt Dunn’s program and it charges as a stable preseason No. 2 amongst California Interscholastic Federation (CIF) golf equipment behind defending CIF open champ Harvard-Westlake. The Braves not solely ended the 34-year run of league titles by perennial FAB 50 contender Mater Dei of Santa Ana, they recorded a victory over Harvard-Westlake. Dunn (447-183) performed on a FAB 50 ranked outfit at Jesuit (Carmichael, Calif.) that twice got here up only one recreation in need of a CIF main division crown (in 1993 and 1994) and he’d love nothing extra to really feel that second as a coach with this group. 4 starters and 11 lettermen return led by Harrington (15.5 ppg, 5.0 rpg, 5.7 apg, 2.8 spg), an all-state choice and Trinity League Participant of the 12 months as a sophomore. Turner (13.3 ppg, 3.5 rpg, 4.3 apg) had huge scoring outings in a lot of Bosco’s huge video games and is a fiery competitor who isn’t afraid of the large second. Bonam (13.5 ppg, 6.7 rpg, 1.3 bpg) is vital to Bosco’s inside play and excels in high-low conditions. McCoy (8.6 ppg, 4.5 rpg, 3.6 spg) is nearly as good a fast-twitch athlete as there’s on the West Coast and he practically led Bosco over Corona Centennial within the CIF Southern Part open title recreation.The Skinny: The Braves have all of the elements to win their first part and state open crown, so long as the inside gamers acquire the mandatory expertise alongside the best way towards a difficult schedule. With a full season underneath his belt, the nation goes to study simply how particular a expertise McCoy is, as he’s on par talent-wise with any 2026 participant within the nation. “We’ve got the most effective backcourts within the nation and though nonetheless younger, we’re very skilled,” Dunn stated. “Our measurement is upcoming, however not very skilled.” Rebounding and toughness can be key towards a nationwide schedule and if Howie Wu (7-0, 2026) makes a big effect this crew might be shortly shifting up within the rankings. Jaison Joyce (6-7, 2025) is one other key cog, whereas Gavin Dean-Moss (6-0, 2026) is a shot within the arm off the bench with added depth supplied by fellow JayVee move-ups Dominic Perfetti (6-7, 2026) and Chris Komin (6-0, 2025). The Braves will tackle highly-regarded Sunnyslope of Arizona at Hoophall West in Arizona (Dec. 2) and can journey to Hawaii for the Iolani Basic (Dec. 15-20) to compete towards a discipline that features No. 28 Oak Ridge, and highly-regarded golf equipment Vashon of Missouri, DeMatha Catholic of Maryland, Tempo Academy of Georgia and Christ the King of New York. After Christmas, it’s The Basic at Damien with the likes of No. 44 Roosevelt, No. 50 Owyhee, and Sunnyslope. Earlier than the playoffs, Bosco will take a look at itself on the Bass Professional Match of Champions in Springfield, Mo. (Jan. 11-13) together with FAB 50 title contender Paul VI of Virginia, No. 21 McEachern, and No. 34 Edmond North.

20. (BB) Kokomo (Kokomo, Ind.) 24-5Key Gamers: C Flory Bidunga 6-9 2024 (No. 5 Rivals.com, Ballislife First Workforce All-American, Kansas commit), PG Reis Beard 5-8 2024, PF Karson Rogers 6-6 2024.Why This Rating: Two starters and 10 lettermen return from a membership that got here up only a recreation in need of capturing its first Indiana Excessive College State Athletic Affiliation (IHSAA) state crown since 1961. Kokomo has reached the state remaining 4 10 different occasions, and its rabid fan base is hoping that is the membership that may make historical past after final yr’s group fell quick towards an unbeaten Ben Davis membership that completed No. 4 within the FAB 50. It begins with Bidunga, a fabulous crew oriented participant who dominates across the basket on each ends of the ground, is disciplined and might transfer his toes adequate to maintain up with a guard. The Kansas-bound huge man averaged 20.2 ppg, 13.8 rpg and 4.5 bpg whereas changing an unbelievable 81 % (207-263) of his pictures from the sphere as a junior. He recorded 27 double-doubles in 29 outings and was the second-leading vote-getter on the Indiana A.P. All-State crew. Clearly, it takes multiple expertise to win a Class 4A state crown in Indiana and coach John Peckingpaugh has sufficient complimentary items to get the job executed. Beard (4.8 ppg, 2.6 rpg) is a ground normal in each sense of the phrase and can also be the quarterback on Kokomo’s soccer crew. How useful is he? In final yr’s state title recreation he didn’t convert a discipline objective however was on the ground for 31 of the 32 minutes of the sport.The Skinny: The town of Kokomo (with a inhabitants of roughly 60,000) defines Hoosier Hysteria. The city loves its Wildkats (which have received a state file 76 sectional titles) and people round to see the legendary 1961 unit feverishly adopted final yr’s membership. It received’t be straightforward to get there once more, but when final yr’s reserves step up as Rogers did final season, this crew may make historical past. Rogers (4.6 ppg, 4.5 rpg) stepped up with a number of double-doubles when it counted most late within the season, averaging 16 ppg and 6 rpg within the remaining 9 video games and may assist maintain defenses trustworthy in guarding Budinga. The Wildkats will miss Zavion Bellamy, however his youthful brother Zion Bellamy (5-9, 2025) is able to tackle a much bigger function. He’s one other Grid-Hooper who ought to enhance his 6.8 ppg common. Kokomo can’t afford too many losses to remain on this vary of the FAB 50, but when it wins its remaining recreation of the season, any losses whereas the crew jells and awaits its soccer gamers received’t matter.

21. (BB) McEachern (Energy Springs, Ga.) 23-7 Key Gamers: SF Ace Bailey 6-8 2024 (No. 3 247Sports.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Rutgers commit), PG Jeremiah Wilkinson 6-1 2024 (California commit), PG Jaye Nash 6-2 2024 (No. 103 Rivals.com), SG Moses Hipps 6-4 2024, C J.D. Palm 6-10 2025 (No. 62 Rivals.com).Why This Rating: Exhausting to not just like the Indians mix of returning expertise and newcomers, led by a possible famous person in Bailey. He averaged 22 ppg, 14 rpg, 3 apg and 4 bpg for a membership that superior to the Georgia Excessive College Affiliation (GHSA) Class AAAAAAA quarterfinals. It’s the transfers, nevertheless, that might take coach and former Southern Cal participant Tremaine Anchrum’s membership to the subsequent degree and permit for a transfer up within the rankings. Wilkinson simply may common 20 ppg for a lesser program, Nash was the lead guard on a Briarcrest (Memphis, Tenn.) membership that made a state remaining and John McQueen (6-5, 2024), a switch from Langston Hughes of Atlanta, is a flexible expertise that may present good exterior capturing and protection. Hipps, underrated nationally, returns and is one other sniper from the surface who has D1 presents from all around the nation.The Skinny: The Indians are attempting to get again to the extent they have been when future NBA gamers Sharife Cooper and Isaac Okoro led them to the Metropolis of Palms championship and a Class AAAAAAA state crown in 2018-19. That crew completed No. 2 within the FAB 50 and if this membership can survive its schedule it has a shot to get in that vary within the remaining rankings. McEachern could be a couple of spots larger if the supply of Palm was not in query. The gifted huge man has been in want of a kidney transplant since final season ended and even when he does return to the court docket this season, it might be in a restricted function. This crew has loads of offensive firepower on the perimeter and the power to get after it defensively. Bailey is essentially the most heralded Rutgers recruit since 1972 All-American Phil Sellers out of Jefferson (Brooklyn, N.Y.). Sellers (who led the Scarlet Knights to the 1976 NCAA Last 4) was a nationwide participant of the yr finalist and Bailey additionally may develop into a Mr. Basketball USA candidate with a monster yr versus a loaded schedule. Not solely do the Indians play on the Naismith Tip-Off Basic and Vacation Hoopsgiving versus FAB 50 title contender Columbus of Miami, they may enterprise to the Metropolis of Palms Basic (Dec. 18-23) in Ft. Myers, Fla., the place they open with No. 18 Don Bosco Prep. In January, the Indians will do the vaunted “Springfield Double”, taking over No. 11 Harvard-Westlake on MLK Monday in Massachusetts after taking part within the Bass Professional Match of Champions in Missouri (Jan. 11-13) towards the likes of FAB 50 energy Paul VI of Virginia, No. 19 St. John Bosco and No. 34 Edmond North.

22. (50) Lincoln Park (Midland, Pa.) 30-1 Key Gamers: SG Meleek Thomas 6-5 2025 (No. 5 On3.com, Ballislife First Workforce All-American), SG Brandin “Beebah” Cummings 6-3 2024 (No. 122 Rivals.com, Pittsburgh commit), SG Dorian McGhee 6-0 2024, PF Dontay Inexperienced 6-5 2024. Why This Rating: The Leopards are deserving of this spot with 4 returning starters and 7 lettermen from an impressive membership that captured the Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic Affiliation (PIAA) Class 4A state crown. It’s not simply the quantity of veterans, however the expertise degree, as Thomas (24.9 ppg) is likely one of the greatest gamers within the nation no matter class. His driving 12-foot runner clinched the Leopards’ state title recreation victory over then No. 24 Neumann-Goretti (Philadelphia, Pa.). The WPIAL champs obtained 23.1 ppg from Cummings, a bodily scorer who shot 39 % from 3-point vary final season and has made 186 profession 3-pointers with one season to go. Coach Mike Bariski (249-47) is fast to level out that is removed from a two-man crew, because the roster accommodates 4 different faculty degree gamers.The Skinny: This crew has an opportunity to be dominant in-state and are favorites to as soon as once more seize Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL) and PIAA titles. Pretty much as good as Lincoln Park’s core is, Bariski is a bit involved about his crew’s total measurement when it ventures to play in huge showcases video games or tournaments. “Our strengths are our quickness, scoring means and crew oriented protection, however we don’t have measurement in any respect 5 positions,” he stated. Inexperienced, a Grid-Hoop stud, does a lot of the soiled work inside so he’ll must be able to go and wholesome after soccer season. McGhee additionally performs soccer and can be a part of a crew that misplaced solely seven of the 62 factors off final season’s state title recreation win that was the primary loss for Neumann-Goretti in 11 title appearances. Vinnie DePalma (5-11, 2024) and Rashan Russell (5-11, 2024) must be a lot improved and alleviate strain for the 2 huge scoring weapons. The Leopards will take part within the Burger King Basic in Erie, Pa., and enterprise to the West Area to play within the Capital Metropolis Basic in Salem, Ore.

23. (NR) Wasatch Academy (Mt. Nice, Utah) 19-10 Key Gamers: SG Isiah Harwell 6-5 2025 (No. 6 On3.com), SG John Mobley Jr. 6-0 2024 (No. 43 247Sports.com, Ohio St. commit), SF Taj Degourville 6-5 2024 (No. 137 247Sports.com, San Diego St. commit), PF Chris Nuwuli 6-7 2025 (No.17 ESPN.com), C Malick Diallo 6-10 2024 (No. 127 On3.com, TCU commit).Why This Rating: After beginning off FAB 50 ranked for 5 consecutive seasons (2018-22), the Tigers weren’t ranked within the 2022-23 preseason and truly did stable in NIBC play, ending tied for fifth place with Dawn Christian Academy at 7-5. Coach Paul Peterson’s crew has extra firepower this season and is available in because the No. 7 crew from essentially the most talent-laden convention within the nation. It begins with Harwell, a terrific expertise who had a wonderful summer time on the grassroots circuit and must be primed for a giant junior season. Mobley can play on the ball, however can also be the most effective catch-and-shoot threats within the nation. When he’s on, this crew can be a tricky out towards any convention foe. He’s joined by former Bishop Gorman (Las Vegas) teammate Nuwuli, who’s hoping the change of surroundings helps him attain his huge potential. When centered, Nuwuli is a hellacious defender and might change the complexion of a recreation with a giant play. Mobley was joined on the Nevada all-state crew by Degourville of 2022-23 state champ Durango, a flexible expertise who can punish smaller defenders and is just too expert for many greater ones. There may be loads of firepower at Peterson’s disposal, however consistency is a priority and depth is a giant query mark.The Skinny: Wasatch is likely one of the middle-of-the pack NIBC golf equipment that may rise with some key wins or additionally fall again if the losses mount. It’s not straightforward to place collectively NIBC profitable streaks, however Peterson is aware of how you can grind out victories, so if the roster’s scoring efficiency is constant, this can be a harmful membership that may end within the higher echelon of the NIBC standings. The lone returnee who logged main minutes is Diallo, the second main rebounder and shot blocker on the crew behind first crew all-NIBC alternative Collin Murray-Boyles (South Carolina). Diallo has loads of expertise and might want to keep on the ground and enhance his manufacturing to ensure that Wasatch Academy to have an opportunity to maneuver up within the rankings. The Tigers wish to get again to the extent they have been once they started No. 11 and No. 15, respectively, within the 2020-21 and 2021-22 FAB 50, and this crew could have loads of alternative to just do that. We’ll take a cautious method, nevertheless, due to their mark at GEICO Nationals. The Tigers are 0-4 on the occasion all-time and haven’t made the reduce the final two seasons, together with when expectations have been excessive in 2021-22. This system’s No. 2 FAB 50 end in 2020 got here when GEICO Nationals was canceled due to the onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic.

24. (NR) Winston-Salem Christian (Winston-Salem, N.C.) 39-5Key Gamers: C Chol Machot 7-0 2024, PF Lewis Walker 6-6 2024, PF Brayden Crump 6-9 2024 (Elon commit), PG Jordan Lowery 6-1 2025 (No. 110 Rivals.com), SG Tyler “Tybo” Bailey 6-3 2024 (No. 118 Rivals.com).Why This Rating: The Lions have been on the FAB 50 bubble final season as a freelance-independent membership, however might be higher this yr with three returning starters and a brand new backcourt. Coach Antonio Lowe (214-53) has a crew he feels is sweet sufficient to navigate a nationwide schedule and seize the Grind Session Last 4, set for March 15-17 in Chicago. The backcourt is led by Lowery, one of many higher junior lead guards within the nation who’s shortly racking up P5 presents. Bailey returns residence to the Hoop State after spending time at La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.) and brings a wealth of expertise and versatile scoring choices to a crew that already had a lot. Wing guard Isaiah Washington (6-5, 2024) can rating factors in bunches and combines athleticism with a very good I.Q. for the sport. Machot is a Melbourne, Australia native who faculty coaches are shortly realizing can play at a excessive degree. Crump is recovering from two ACL surgical procedures and is an intriguing face-up 4 with deep vary. Machot’s enchancment and Crump’s presence can be key towards the extent of competitors Winston Salem Christian will face in 2023-24.The Skinny: This crew’s profile took an uptick rankings-wise by becoming a member of the Energy 10 Convention, a 12-team conglomerate of the very best packages on the Grind Session that should adhere to its bylaws. Winston-Salem Christian, whose program is sanctioned to play each North Carolina Excessive College Athletic Affiliation (NCHSAA) public faculties and faculties inside the North Carolina Unbiased Faculties Athletic Affiliation (NCISAA), has huge video games straight away so all of the items must mesh so as to transfer up within the rankings. Lowe loves his crew’s depth and protection, however has some reservations about its lack of peak in addition to Machot. The entrance court docket is a load, as Walker is a bodily downhill scoring possibility and Maykel Petit Canny (6-7, 2024) is a fast jumper with a bodily presence on each ends of the ground. Another excuse we like this membership to start out is as a result of a lot of its particular person items really feel they’re underrated nationally, so that they wish to get off to a robust begin. An early huge take a look at will happen in Ft. Erie, Canada on Nov. 11 when the Lions face FAB 50 title contender Prolific Prep on the Maple Showcase.

25. (NR) La Lumiere (La Porte, Ind.) 19-10 Key Gamers: SG Jalen Haralson 6-7 2025 (No. 7 On3.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), PG Jerry Easter II 6-4 2025 (No. 21 Rivals.com), PG Ace Buckner 6-1 2024 (Clemson commit), SG Darius Adams 6-4 2025 (No. 20 Rivals.com), SF Chuck Love III 6-7 2025 (No. 55 ESPN.com), SG Melvin Bell Jr. 6-4 2024 (No. 104 247Sports.com), C Steve Solano 6-11 2024.Why This Rating: The Lakers have a expertise uptick from final yr once they got here in sixth place within the NIBC with a 5-7 convention mark and fell out of the rankings after starting at No. 36. It was a wonderful line between success and shifting up within the rankings, as LaLu led or was tied with two minutes to go in six of its 10 losses and was down by two with two minutes to go in two different losses. “That falls again to us as coaches; we had three guys we simply couldn’t take out of the sport,” coach Patrick Holmes stated. “We’re specializing in taking part in a 32-minute recreation.” Holmes likes his depth and flexibility to complete video games robust and the crew has a greater inside-outside stability than final season. Bucker has shined in open gyms, Easter can get within the paint with ease and Adams has some wiggle to his recreation and might actually stroke it. Haralson brings a dimension that LaLu hasn’t had in years, with elite measurement for a ball-handler who can go over the protection and make the appropriate play. Love is a catch and shoot risk who relishes protection and arising with steals and deflections. Solano is an lively huge with a powerful wingspan who can change on screens, whereas Jonas Muya (6-9, 2026) is a 250-pound house eater as a back-up huge.The Skinny: With two true inside gamers, LaLu can be aggressive on the perimeter and can look to play quick. If Haralson and Easter stay as much as their superior billing and Bell is absolutely wholesome and might present what he can do, the Lakers will pull out a few of these shut video games and have a terrific alternative to maneuver up within the rankings. “We must be a really robust defensive crew, plus we’ve got versatile perimeter gamers which permits us to assault at a excessive degree or house the ground with our capturing,” Holmes stated. LaLu solely has two gamers again from final yr’s roster and a core of the newcomers are juniors. With seven newcomers within the rotation, Holmes’ membership has to keep away from a sluggish begin to have a possibility to climb within the NIBC standings and qualify for GEICO Nationals. The Lakers, the No. 8 crew within the NIBC preseason pecking order, are 7-8 (.467) all-time on the occasion, however haven’t superior previous the primary spherical since advancing to the title recreation in 2018-2019.

26. (NR) North Mecklenburg (Huntersville, N.C.) 29-3 Key Gamers: SF Isaiah Evans 6-7 2024 (No. 8 ESPN.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American, Duke commit), SG Trey Maxwell 6-4 2024, PG Chadlyn Traylor 6-2 2025.Why This Rating: Hopes are excessive for this season after the Vikings fell to Myers Park within the 2022-23 Class 4A Western Regional Last. North Meck returns one of many nation’s most interesting gamers and sufficient surrounding expertise to warrant this spot within the rankings. North Meck begins as North Carolina Excessive College Athletic Affiliation (NCHSAA) No. 2 behind the Myers Park crew it misplaced to within the playoffs and in entrance of the Chambers membership it beat in extra time a spherical earlier. Evans is a do-it-all performer who averaged 26.0 ppg, 6.4 rpg, 3.5 apg and was even higher in 5 state tourney video games. Evans upped his scoring common to 38.6 ppg, together with a 62-point outburst within the memorable victory over Chambers, and is bodily extra imposing heading into his senior marketing campaign. Maxwell, the son of former NBA guard Vernon Maxwell, is just like dad within the sense he can shoot and put up factors in a rush. This crew’s returning core is terrific and has proven marked enchancment over the summer time analysis durations.The Skinny: After profitable the state title in 2020, the Vikings opened up 2020-21 No. 34 within the FAB 50, however due to the NCHSAA’s COVID-19 restrictions have been solely in a position to play 12 video games and misplaced within the state semifinals once they have been No. 17 within the FAB 50. This crew can get to that degree and can take pleasure in a whole season. Final season, in lots of respects, North Meck went how Evans went, however this season the Vikings are extra gifted and aren’t as reliant on his particular person skills. Traylor might be a distinction maker. He comes over from West Charlotte after averaging 15.5 ppg, 4.4 rpg and three.0 assists, however extra importantly he’s a whole guard and provides this crew a shot within the arm. Carson Evans (6-3, 2025) was terrific off the bench final season for coach Duane Lewis (505–158) and performs hellacious protection. Zion Williams (6-3, 2025) is improved and anticipated to have an expanded function. Ashton Pierce (6-3, 2026) is a future star and can solely get higher backing the veteran backcourt. With the items in place, Lewis will take a look at his membership towards a robust schedule, together with an look on the Metropolis of Palms Basic in Florida (Dec. 18-23). North Meck opens up with defending FAB 50 nationwide champ Hyperlink Academy of Missouri. The Vikings will face highly-regarded Camden of New Jersey on the Spalding Hoophall Basic (Jan. 13).

27. (32) Oak Cliff Religion Household (Dallas, Texas) 31-3** Key Gamers: C Doryan Onwuchekwa 6-10 2024 (No. 83 Rivals.com, Colorado commit), SG Isaac Williams IV 6-2 2024, PG Jazz Henderson 5-10 2024, PF Davion Adkins 6-6 2026.Why This Rating: For the previous two seasons, the Eagles have been on the preseason FAB 50 cusp within the Southwest Area, solely to climb to No. 32 and No. 30, respectively, within the remaining rankings. This time round we’re not going to play the ready recreation with the Eagles, as they’ve greater than sufficient returning firepower to seize a 3rd consecutive College Interscholastic League (UIL) Class 4A crown. With no overwhelming favourite in Class 6A (Texas’ prime public faculty division), Religion Household will get the nod because the No. 1 UIL membership. It begins with Onwuchekwa, a TABC All-State alternative who’s primed for a giant senior marketing campaign now that he obtained his faculty recruitment out of the best way. Onwuchekwa can bang when he’s motivated to, step away from the basket with a well timed jumper and defend ball screens higher than one may suspect. Williams is a D1 level guard who can play on or off the ball due to the presence of Henderson. The crew’s catalyst, Henderson is a brilliant scholar that may be a ball-hawk on protection and never afraid of the large second or taking the clutch shot. This crew received’t be a straightforward out for anybody due to its expertise and skill to grind out wins when the going will get robust.The Skinny: Religion Household has proven it has the observe file to start on this rankings place, however have to be constant in shut video games and present it could constantly stroke the deep perimeter shot to maneuver up from right here. The lack of J.T. Toppin (New Mexico) received’t be straightforward to beat, however coach Brandon Thomas (331-86) feels this yr’s crew is even deeper, albeit with some unproven items coming off the bench. Lekenrick Taylor Jr. (6-7, 2024) is a bouncy ahead who may assist take this crew to the subsequent degree if he performs as much as par. Adkins is a budding famous person who can rim run and block pictures with authority. Depth is supplied by Anthony Spencer III (6-6, 2026) and Kingston Willis (5-11, 2026). All three have been standouts on the current Pangos All-South Fr./So. Camp, plus others shifting up from a 25-0 JayVee crew will contribute down the road. Thomas will want that depth as a result of the schedule is nationwide in scope, because the Eagles face highly-regarded Lancaster on Nov. 11. They may also play within the San Antonio Alamo Metropolis Basic (Nov. 16-18), the Thanksgiving Hoopfest (Nov. 24-25), the Marshall County Hoopfest vs. Mix Academy of North Carolina (Dec. 2), the Iverson Basic (Dec. 8-9), the Torrey Pines Vacation Basic (Dec. 27-30), the Flyin’ To The Hoop in Dayton, Ohio (Jan. 12-13) and the Quincy Shootout in Illinois (Jan. 19-20). FAB 50 energy Montverde Academy of Florida is on the docket on the Hoopfest (Nov. 24).

28. (NR) Oak Ridge (Orlando, Fla.) 19-10 Key Gamers: SF Jamier Jones 6-6 2025 (No. 13 ESPN.com), PG Jalen Reece 5-11 2025 (No. 59 Rivals.com), SG Elijah Elliott 6-3 2024 (Florida Atlantic commit), SF Cameron Simpson 6-6 2024 (Central Florida commit), Tyler Johnson 6-5 2024 (Virginia Tech commit).Why This Rating: With their expertise degree and expertise, the Pioneers fee because the No. 2 crew amongst Florida Excessive College Athletic Affiliation (FHSAA) golf equipment behind FAB 50 title contender Columbus of Miami. Coach Steve Reece’s membership returns en masse plus provides Jones, who performed at IMG Academy final season and excelled at summer time camps this yr. The highly effective wing has a college-ready physique now and might simply common upwards of 20 ppg. He received’t on this crew, as meshing in with the obtainable expertise will solely make him a greater participant and Oak Ridge a extra harmful unit. Reece, the coach’s son, is likely one of the greatest shooters in his class nationally and is a pure lead guard who will get the ball to the appropriate spots on the ground. This crew solely graduated one senior who made contributions and the returnees are motivated to win after shedding in final yr’s FHSAA Class 7A semifinals on a buzzer-beating 3-pointer.The Skinny: There are many high quality groups from Florida after perennial FAB 50 title contenders Montverde Academy and IMG Academy. Columbus charges as a robust Class 7A favourite with the Pioneers and Winter Haven (the crew that knocked Oak Ridge out) additionally contenders. The Sunshine Unbiased Athletic Affiliation (SIAA) at all times has two or three groups to think about and Mater Lakes appears robust in Class 4A with Windermere Prep and Westminster Academy main the best way in Class 3A. Among the many Oak Ridge seniors, Elliott can play each guard spots, as he is an effective scorer however may also facilitate. Simpson is an effective 3-point shooter with vertical pop whereas Johnson performs with a take-no-prisoners edge and is a tough matchup due to his bodily nature. Johnson will get rebounds out of his space properly and is a flexible defender. On paper, Oak Ridge appears just like the clear No. 4 within the state, however should recover from the hump within the playoffs and reduce down the general loss whole. The Pioneers captured the championship of the Georgia Basketball Coaches Affiliation (GBCA) Southeast Regional through the June Scholastic stay interval, however didn’t fare as properly on the Part 7 Workforce Camp in Arizona every week later. They face No. 43 Bishop O’Connell on the Vacation Hoopsgiving in Atlanta (Nov. 24-25), journey to Hawaii for the Iolani Basic and can play No. 37 St. Ignatius on the Flyin’ To The Hoop in Dayton, Ohio (Jan. 14).

29. (NR) Grayson (Loganville, Ga.) 24-6 Key Gamers: SG Gicarri Harris 6-4 2024 (No. 70 On3.com), SF Jacob Wilkins 6-9 2025 (No. 16 247Sports.com), PF Amir Taylor 6-7 2025, PG C.J. Hyland 6-0 2024 (Western Carolina commit), SG Anthony Alston 6-2 2024 (Appalachian St. commit).Why This Rating: The Rams are chomping on the bit to get to the Georgia Excessive College Affiliation (GHSA) winner’s circle after falling to eventual champion Wheeler of Marietta within the GHSA Class AAAAAAA semifinals final season. Wheeler is a contender as soon as once more as is No. 21 McEachern, however coach Geoffrey Pierce (236-81) likes his crew’s probabilities as a lot as anyone with 4 returning starters, 9 lettermen and a key switch. Harris (17 ppg, 6 rpg, 3 apg, 2 spg, 51-40-87 splits) is the returning Gwinnett County Participant of the 12 months. He was joined on the all-state crew by Taylor (12 ppg, 6 rpg, 1 bpg), a critical scholar of the sport who can go inside-out and deal with it properly sufficient to create mismatches. Hyland (11 ppg, 3 rpg, 6 apg, 2 spg) pushes the ball, creates for others and is a clutch defender. Alston (10 ppg, 4 rpg) is a defensive menace and doesn’t take unhealthy pictures. With Wilkins within the combine, the veterans can be much more harmful as soon as the group jells.The Skinny: Wilkins performed at The Talent Manufacturing unit final season and will assist take this crew two steps additional than final season. The son of NBA nice and two-time highschool All-American Dominique Wilkins (Washington, N.C.), Jacob is of course gifted and might stroke the surface shot along with blocking pictures. “We aren’t huge within the backcourt and our depth is unproven, however I like our protection, capturing and expertise,” Pierce stated. Ahmad Clark (6-7, 2024) is one other newcomer who will come off the bench to protect practically any place Pierce asks of him. If the crew jells, it might be nearly as good because the 2019-20 unit that obtained as much as No. 4 within the FAB 50 earlier than falling in an upset to Wheeler by some extent within the state title recreation. For Pierce, the rating received’t matter so long as the crew performs its greatest on the finish of the season. Another excuse it received’t matter a lot is the Rams will meet McEachern on Nov. 11 within the Georgia Elite 8 Tip-Off Basic at McEachern. The schedule additionally consists of video games on the Vacation Hoopsgiving (Nov. 24-25), the Naismith Tip-Off Showcase and a recreation versus No. 33 Perry on the Spalding Hoophall Basic (Jan. 13). The Rams play within the American Division on the Chick-fil-A Basic in South Carolina with FAB 50 title contender John Marshall of Virginia.

30. (NR) Brennan (San Antonio, Texas) 32-8 Key Gamers: PG Kingston Flemings 6-2 2025 (No. 69 On3.com, Ballislife Underclass All-American), SG Isaiah Ward 6-6 2026 (No. 37 On3.com), SG Camden Cowgill 6-2 2025, PG Talon Todd 6-0 2026.Why This Rating: There may be a lot to love with 4 returning starters and 10 lettermen from a crew that superior to the College Interscholastic League (UIL) Class 6A semifinals earlier than falling to runner-up Beaumont United, 70-68, after trailing by as a lot as 16 factors. Coach Koty Cowgill (275-106) has a crew that’s been eyeing this season and 2024-25 for fairly a while. Duncanville has been the UIL’s greatest crew 5 years operating, however with heavy commencement losses, we go along with the Bears because the No. 2 Texas crew behind No. 27 Religion Household and the slight 6A favourite in entrance of the Panthers and contenders similar to No. 45 South Grand Prairie, Plano East, Spherical Rock Stony Level and Dallas W.T. White. Flemings and Cowgill have been starters since ninth grade and their chemistry is uncanny, as Flemings is likely one of the nation’s greatest set-up males and Cowgill, the son of the top coach, is a dead-eye shooter. Ward made an impression as a freshman, and is a terrific two-player participant who can create mismatches. Todd retains the protection trustworthy together with his perimeter capturing. “I like our versatility and depth on the guard place, however with one senior in our prime eight, we’re nonetheless extremely younger,” coach Cowgill stated.The Skinny: It’s been 21 years since a San Antonio program captured the UIL’s highest classification title on the court docket, so Brennan has its work reduce out for it. In 2001-02, Jay upset Kimball, 54-53, within the Class 5A title recreation (the highest classification then) on a half court docket desperation heave by Chris Ross. Mockingly, it was Chris Bosh-led Class 4A champ Dallas Lincoln that captured the FAB 50 title with an unblemished file. It wouldn’t be a lot of an upset ought to the Bears win the Class 6A crown this season since there isn’t any overwhelming favourite. Brennan remains to be comparatively younger, so it has to point out consistency and maintain the loss rely to half of final yr’s whole so as to transfer up within the rankings. JaVonte Johnson (6-5, 2025) and Donovan Criss (6-4, 2026) are future D1 gamers with expertise, whereas newcomers Delano Tarpley (6-10, 2026) and Amoni Francis (6-6, 2027) can be counted on to strengthen the inside throughout an extended season. Cowgill’s crew will play within the McDonald’s Invitational in Pasadena, Texas and has huge matchups with highly-regarded Isidore Newman of Louisiana (Nov. 24) and defending FAB 50 champ Hyperlink Academy of Missouri (Nov. 25) on the Thanksgiving Hoopfest.

Ronnie Flores is the nationwide Grassroots editor of Ballislife.com. He will be reached at [email protected]. Do not forget to observe him on Twitter: @RonMFlores

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