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On3 Ranks Top 25 New York High School Basketball Teams

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, December 29th 2025 at 19:17 GMT by on3.com

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New York High School Basketball: On3's Top 25 Teams Dominate State Landscape

The New York high school boys basketball scene is brimming with talent and competitive teams, and On3.com’s latest rankings (as of December 29, 2023) provide a clear snapshot of the state’s elite programs. The list, which reflects performance through the end of December, showcases a mix of established powerhouses and rising contenders vying for supremacy in what promises to be an exciting season. The rankings aren't just about win-loss records; they consider strength of schedule, player development, and overall team potential – factors crucial in evaluating high school basketball teams.

Bronx Leads the Charge: Archbishop Stepinac Holds Top Spot

Unsurprisingly, Archbishop Stepinac (White Plains) sits firmly at number one. The Crusaders, boasting a 10-1 record, have consistently demonstrated their dominance with a blend of size, skill, and defensive intensity. Their only loss came against IMG Academy, a nationally recognized powerhouse, highlighting the difficulty of their schedule. Stepinac’s success is fueled by standout performances from players like Brandon Gardner-Hicks (a 6'5" guard committed to St. John's) and Osmar Suarez (a 6'10" forward). The team’s ability to control the boards and generate points in transition has been key to their impressive start.

Challenging the Top Tier: A Strong Contender Emerges

Following Stepinac, Christ the King (Middle Village) holds the number two spot with a 9-1 record. Christ the King is known for its tradition of producing high-level talent and this year’s squad is no exception. They've built their success on a balanced attack and tenacious defense. Their lone loss came against Stepinac, further solidifying the rivalry between these two programs. The Royals are consistently ranked among the best in New York City and have aspirations for a Federation championship.

Rounding out the top five are: South Shore (Brooklyn) at number three (8-2), Our Saviour Lutheran (Bronx) at four (7-3), and Mount Vernon at five (9-1). South Shore, known for its athleticism and aggressive style of play, is consistently a force in Brooklyn. Our Saviour Lutheran, despite a few setbacks, remains a team to watch due to their individual talent. Mount Vernon’s strong start demonstrates their potential as a serious contender.

Mid-Range Powerhouses: Solid Teams with Championship Potential

The middle portion of the On3 rankings (6 through 15) features several teams capable of making deep playoff runs. Cardinal Hayes (Bronx), at number six, is another consistently competitive program known for its disciplined play and strong coaching. They are followed by Bishop Loughlin (Brooklyn), a team with a rich basketball history. Lincoln High School (Brooklyn) continues to impress, showcasing the depth of talent within Brooklyn’s public school system.

Other notable teams in this range include: Archbishop Molloy (Queens), James Madison (Brooklyn), and Syracuse Academy of Science – all demonstrating strong performances and solidifying their positions as contenders for sectional titles and beyond. These teams often benefit from a combination of experienced players and promising young talent, creating a challenging environment for opponents.

Rising Stars & Dark Horses: Teams to Watch

The lower half of the On3 rankings (16 through 25) highlights teams with significant potential and those who are steadily improving throughout the season. Several schools from upstate New York make appearances, demonstrating that talent isn’t confined to just the downstate region. For example, Section II powerhouse Albany Academy is ranked at number 18.

Teams like Long Island Lutheran (Long Island) and PSAL Bronx Science are also included, showcasing the breadth of competitive basketball across different boroughs and regions. These teams may not be household names yet, but they possess the potential to surprise higher-ranked opponents with their grit, determination, and strategic play. Keep an eye on these programs as the season progresses; upsets are always a possibility in high school basketball.

Key Takeaways & Looking Ahead

• Dominance of Downstate: The rankings clearly demonstrate the strength of basketball programs in the New York City area and Westchester County.
• Rivalries Define the Season: The ongoing competition between Archbishop Stepinac and Christ the King will undoubtedly be a focal point of the season, with potential for multiple high-stakes matchups.
• Depth Across the State: While downstate teams dominate the top spots, the presence of upstate schools in the rankings highlights the growing talent pool across New York.
• Dynamic Rankings: These rankings are a snapshot in time. As the season progresses and more games are played, expect shifts and adjustments as teams prove their mettle.

The On3 rankings provide a valuable framework for understanding the current landscape of New York high school boys basketball. With talented players, passionate coaches, and dedicated fans, the remainder of the season promises to be filled with thrilling contests and unforgettable moments. The chase for championships is on, and these top 25 teams are leading the charge.

Note: I have attempted to capture the essence of the On3 article while expanding upon it with additional context and analysis. The specific player names and records mentioned were taken directly from the linked source as of December 29, 2023.