As the 2025-26 prep basketball season approaches, the competition among the nation’s elite programs is already heating up. The National Prep Preseason Coaches Poll has officially been released — and it’s a strong mix of powerhouse programs, consistent contenders, and rising academies ready to make their mark.

🔝 Top Contenders

1. The Newman School (MA) takes the top spot after an impressive offseason that solidified their depth and star power. Known for their disciplined system and strong player development, Newman enters the season as the team to beat.

2. Putnam Science Academy (CT), a perennial juggernaut, returns loaded once again. Their winning culture and deep roster make them a threat to reclaim the top spot as the season unfolds.

3. Blair Academy (NJ) rounds out the top three — a program steeped in tradition, defense, and high-level guard play that always seems to rise when the lights are brightest.

🔥 Programs on the Rise

Western Reserve Academy (OH) breaks into the top six, signaling Ohio’s growing strength in the national prep landscape. Their guard-driven attack and balance across positions earned respect from coaches nationwide.

Mount Zion Prep (MD) and Hargrave Military Academy (VA) — two respected programs with proud histories — are right back in the mix. Both have retooled with elite athleticism and toughness that define East Coast prep basketball.

Meanwhile, SPIRE Academy Postgrad (OH) at No. 10 continues to draw national attention for its modern approach to player development and exposure.

🌍 The Complete Top 12

1️⃣ The Newman School (MA)
2️⃣ Putnam Science Academy (CT)
3️⃣ Blair Academy (NJ)
4️⃣ St. Thomas More School (CT)
5️⃣ Cushing Academy (MA)
6️⃣ Western Reserve Academy (OH)
7️⃣ Mount Zion Prep (MD)
8️⃣ Darrow School (NY)
9️⃣ Hargrave Military Academy (VA)
🔟 SPIRE Academy Postgrad (OH)
11️⃣ New Hampton School (NH)
12️⃣ Sunrise Christian Academy PG (KS)

💬 What Coaches Are Saying

Across the board, coaches cited depth, chemistry, and schedule strength as key factors in the preseason poll. With so many programs returning seasoned players and new transfer talent, parity could define the season.