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New York High School Basketball Power Rankings Released

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, January 5th 2026 at 12:47 GMT by on3.com

New York High School Basketball Power Rankings: On3's Top 25 Teams as January Begins

The landscape of New York high school boys basketball is shaping up for what promises to be an exciting season. On3.com recently released its updated rankings for the Empire State’s top 25 teams, providing a snapshot of the contenders vying for championships across various classes and sections. The rankings, published on January 5th, reflect recent performances and project potential throughout the remainder of the year. This article breaks down the key takeaways from these rankings, highlighting the top performers, notable risers, and teams looking to prove their mettle.

The Reigning Power: Archbishop Stepinac Holds Strong at No. 1

Unsurprisingly, Archbishop Stepinac (White Plains) remains firmly entrenched at the number one spot. The Crusaders boast a formidable roster led by standout junior point guard CJ Autry, who is generating significant college interest. Their dominant performance so far this season – currently holding a record of 7-0 – has solidified their position as the team to beat. Stepinac’s blend of talent and disciplined coaching under Coach Anthony Paratore makes them a consistent threat in both the CHSAA (Catholic High School Athletic Association) and statewide competitions. Their success isn't just about Autry; they have depth and balanced scoring, making them difficult to contain.

Close Contenders: Curtis and Roselle Catholic Round Out the Top 3

Following Stepinac are two teams demonstrating impressive prowess: Curtis (Staten Island) at number two and Roselle Catholic (Secaucus, NJ – included due to their significant participation in New York tournaments) at three. Curtis, a Public School Athletic League (PSAL) powerhouse, has consistently demonstrated its ability to compete with top-tier programs. Their strong inside presence and tenacious defense are hallmarks of their style. Roselle Catholic’s inclusion reflects their frequent appearances in high-profile New York events, showcasing talent that draws attention from across the region. They represent a significant out-of-state threat to the NY teams.

The Middle Tier: Rising Stars and Established Programs

The middle portion of the rankings (4 through 15) showcases a mix of established programs and rising stars. South Shore, another PSAL contender, holds steady at number four, followed by Bishop Loughlin at five. Lincoln High School is ranked sixth, demonstrating the strength within the Brooklyn basketball scene. A significant mover in these rankings is Our Saviour Lutheran (Bronx), climbing to seventh place. They’ve shown considerable improvement and are attracting attention for their potential.

Several other teams occupy this crucial middle ground: Christ The King (Queens), Milton Hershey (PA – again, included due to tournament participation), Mount Vernon, Long Island Lutheran, Syracuse Academy, Cardinal Hayes, and Fordham Prep. These programs represent a competitive pool of talent where any given night can see upsets and shifts in momentum.

The Lower Half: Teams with Potential & Eyes on Improvement

Ranks 16 through 25 feature teams that are still developing but possess the potential to shake up the established order. Bronxville, ranked sixteenth, exemplifies a smaller school program making waves. John Bowne High School (Queens) and Bishop Guilfoyle (PA – tournament participant) find themselves in this group, demonstrating that talent can emerge from unexpected places. The lower ranks also include teams like Archbishop Molloy, which is looking to regain its former prominence, and Iona Prep, aiming for consistency.

Key Themes & Observations:

• PSAL Dominance: The PSAL continues to be a fertile ground for basketball talent, with Curtis, South Shore, and Lincoln all holding high rankings. This highlights the league’s competitive depth and the quality of coaching within New York City's public schools.
• CHSAA Strength: Archbishop Stepinac’s reign underscores the continued strength of the CHSAA, a league known for its rigorous schedule and talented players. Bishop Loughlin also maintains a strong presence.
• Tournament Impact: The inclusion of out-of-state teams like Roselle Catholic and Milton Hershey demonstrates the growing importance of tournaments in shaping perceptions and rankings. These events provide opportunities for New York teams to test themselves against top competition from beyond state lines.
• Player Development is Key: The movement within the rankings highlights the impact of individual player development. Teams that can consistently improve their players throughout the season are more likely to rise in the ranks.
• Early Season Volatility: It's important to remember these rankings represent a snapshot in time. Early-season performances and tournament results heavily influence initial assessments, and as teams play more games and injuries occur, the landscape is bound to shift.

Looking Ahead:

The January 5th On3.com rankings provide a valuable baseline for evaluating New York high school boys basketball. As the season progresses, expect further adjustments based on head-to-head matchups, tournament results, and continued player development. The competition promises to be fierce, with several teams vying for supremacy across different classifications and leagues. The coming weeks will undoubtedly reveal more about which teams truly have what it takes to contend for a state championship.

You can view the full rankings here: [ https://www.on3.com/high-school/news/new-york-high-school-boys-basketball-rankings-top-25-teams-jan-5/ ]