Spire Academy Climbs to No. 2 in Latest Boys’ Basketball Rankings

UPDATE: Spire Academy (Ohio) has surged to the No. 2 spot in the latest ESPN SC Next Top 25 team rankings, marking a significant rise as the new year begins. This rapid ascent follows their impressive victories over three ranked teams: Southeastern Prep (Fla.), AZ Compass Prep (Ariz.), and Faith Family (Texas).

In his inaugural season at Spire Academy, Kevin Boyle has already made a massive impact, building on his successful history at Montverde Academy (Fla.). This development is crucial for high school basketball enthusiasts, as it sets the stage for an electrifying season.

Both Principia (Miss.) and Bartlett (Tenn.) have also made headlines by breaking into the Top 25 following standout performances at the City of Palms Classic. Principia achieved ranked wins over Columbus (Fla.), Wheeler (Ga.), and Bartlett, while Bartlett triumphed against Long Island Lutheran (N.Y.) and Petersburg (Va.). They further showcased their skills by defeating Southeastern Prep (Fla.) 68-62 at the Memphis Hoopfest event.

The excitement doesn’t stop here. The highly anticipated Hoophall Classic in Springfield, Massachusetts, is set for January 15-19, drawing numerous ranked teams and showcasing players from the 2026 ESPN SC Next Top 100, 2027 ESPN SC Next Top 60, and 2028 ESPN SC Next Top 25. This event is pivotal for players looking to make their mark on a national stage.

The current rankings reflect the following elite teams:

1. Link Academy (Miss.)
2. Spire Academy (Ohio)
3. Prolific Prep (Fla.)
4. Dynamic Prep (Texas)
5. AZ Compass (Ariz.)
6. Paul VI (Va.)
7. Bella Vista (Ariz.)
8. La Lumiere (Ind.)
9. Principia (Miss.)
10. Bartlett (Tenn.)
11. Southeastern Prep Academy (Fla.)
12. Columbus (Fla.)
13. Montverde Academy (Fla.)
14. Brewster Academy (N.H.)
15. Sunrise Christian (Kan.)
16. Calvary Christian (Fla.)
17. Wasatch Academy (Utah)
18. Archbishop Stepinac (N.Y.)
19. Sierra Canyon (Calif.)
20. Bishop O’Connell (Va.)
21. IMG Academy (Fla.)
22. Sunnyslope (Ariz.)
23. Wheeler (Ga.)
24. Santa Margarita (Calif.)
25. Faith Family (Texas)

As the season progresses, all eyes will be on these teams, especially with the upcoming Hoophall Classic promising to be a showcase of talent and competitive spirit. Stay tuned for more updates as this thrilling basketball season unfolds, and share the excitement with fellow fans!