Boys Basketball Preview 2025-26: Key Players and Rankings Revealed

The 2025-26 boys basketball season is set to kick off with high expectations for several teams in California’s Bay Area. Notably, Salesian High School is poised to lead the pack following a remarkable season last year. The Pride finished with a record of 27-4 and reached the NorCal semifinals. With greater experience this season, Salesian is positioned as a strong contender, thanks to a talented roster that features Stanford-bound senior shooting guard Elias Obenyah.

Obenyah will be supported by two-sport standout Carlton Perrilliat, who excelled last season as a two-way force, earning all-Bay Area News Group second-team honors. The team’s play will be orchestrated by steady floor general Isaiah Davis, a pass-first point guard known for his reliable shooting from beyond the arc. Adding depth to the lineup are young guards Ronnie Selleaze and Asante Johnson, along with transfer Tayshaun Bozeman from Liberty. Under the guidance of respected coach Bill Mellis, Salesian is expected to represent Northern California in the Open Division state championship.

Archbishop Riordan: A Strong Contender

Archbishop Riordan, which reached the Open Division state championship game last season, faces the challenge of replacing key players like Jasir Rencher and Nes Emeneke. However, the Crusaders still boast a formidable lineup led by University of San Francisco commit Andrew Hilman and versatile big man JP Pihtovs. The team also welcomes two international transfers: Emmanuel Ahamefule, a 6-foot-9 forward from Great Britain, and 6-foot-3 guard Gabrielius Kerys from Lithuania. Expect guard Cole White, who has received an offer from Montana, to assume a larger role this season.

Coach Joey Curtain has established Riordan as a powerhouse and is eyeing a second consecutive NorCal Open Division title. The team’s early schedule includes challenging matchups against Southern California programs La Mirada and Crean Lutheran, as well as strong Northern California teams like San Joaquin Memorial and Modesto Christian.

Emerging Talent at The King’s Academy

The King’s Academy made headlines last season with an impressive run to the Division III state title game, narrowly losing to the athletic SoCal program San Gabriel Academy. Freshman sensation Boss Mhoon, who averaged 13 points, five rebounds, two assists, two steals, and a block per game, returns for his sophomore year. Mhoon is currently ranked as the 22nd best high school player in the country by ESPN.

Alongside Mhoon, the Knights will benefit from the skills of senior point guard Xavier Barnett, who played a crucial role in last season’s postseason success. Additionally, sharpshooter Claxton Ladine poses a scoring threat from the wing, while transfer Hezekiah Sires adds size and depth as a 6-foot-5 guard. After winning the Central Coast Section Division IV title, The King’s Academy aims to compete for the Open Division title in the upcoming season.

East Bay Athletic League Dynamics

The East Bay Athletic League (EBAL) sees a shift in power as Amador Valley and California High emerge as favorites. Amador Valley has significantly bolstered its roster, adding players such as Cam Anderson, the EBAL player of the year favorite, from Dublin. The Dons have also recruited speedy guard Elijah Stanley and sharpshooter Arman Mahavni, enhancing an already strong backcourt.

California High has strengthened its established duo of Brayde Kuykendall and Emeka Ifediora with the addition of Jaiden Jones, a talented swingman from Dublin. The Grizzlies aim to maintain a solid defensive lineup this season after participating in the North Coast Section Open Division last year.

Several schools, including De La Salle, Granada, Livermore, Dublin, and Monte Vista, are expected to remain competitive with their postseason-level personnel.

As the season approaches, excitement builds with the Bishop O’Dowd Thanksgiving Showcase and the NorCal Tip-Off Classic, both featuring numerous matchups that will set the tone for the season.

In summary, the 2025-26 boys basketball season promises thrilling competition and the emergence of new talent across various schools. The rankings and storylines are established, but as teams gear up for their opening games, the true test lies ahead. Schools will need to navigate tough schedules and leverage the skills of their standout players to secure a successful season.