As the high school basketball season progresses, the Republican Herald has unveiled its first Elite Eight Power Rankings for the 2025-26 season, marking a significant moment for both boys’ and girls’ teams. Released on January 5, the rankings highlight the Pottsville Crimson Tide in boys’ basketball and Lourdes Regional in girls’ basketball as the leading teams. Both squads demonstrate strong potential not only within the Schuylkill League but also in upcoming district and state playoffs.
Boys Basketball Rankings
1. **Pottsville (8-3, 5-0)**: Despite suffering a recent loss to Eastern Lebanon County, Pottsville retains its position as the top team in the Schuylkill League. The Crimson Tide has made a strong impression in league play, securing a narrow victory against Blue Mountain to kick off their season. This was followed by four consecutive league wins, each by a margin of at least 11 points. Star forward Christian Alvarez remains a key player to watch this season.
2. **Minersville (8-1, 4-1)**: The Battlin’ Miners are riding a six-game winning streak, with their sole loss this season coming from Pottsville back in December. Minersville has shown dominance, with seven of their eight wins coming by 10 points or more, solidifying their competitive edge in the league.
3. **Tri-Valley (10-1, 5-0)**: With a formidable record, Tri-Valley has made a strong case for a higher ranking. Their only defeat came from Southern Columbia, but they have since rebounded with three substantial wins, including a remarkable 88-36 victory over Upper Dauphin.
4. **Schuylkill Haven (10-1, 4-1)**: Matching Tri-Valley’s success, Schuylkill Haven boasts a strong 10-1 record. Their only loss occurred in mid-December against Williams Valley, but they have since won four consecutive games, including a decisive 72-55 win against Tamaqua.
5. **North Schuylkill (7-4, 3-2)**: Under first-year coach Anthony Agosti, the Spartans are showing improvement, bouncing back from a challenging start. They will face Minersville this week, which will be a significant test for their progress.
6. **Weatherly (6-2, 3-2)**: After a shaky start to the season, Weatherly has turned things around, winning five straight games. They will face another challenge against Tri-Valley on Monday, which is expected to be a crucial matchup.
7. **Blue Mountain (6-5, 2-2)**: The Eagles faced a tough schedule at the season’s outset but have since recovered, winning four of their last five games. Upcoming matches against Pine Grove, Mahanoy, and Marian will test their momentum.
8. **Williams Valley (5-5, 3-2)**: After a strong start, the Vikings have struggled recently with four losses in their last five games. They will aim to regain their form against Marian Catholic.
Girls Basketball Rankings
1. **Lourdes (8-1, 4-0)**: Remaining undefeated in league play, Lourdes is pursuing a second consecutive appearance in the PIAA 1A state playoffs. Their recent win against Marian Catholic further solidifies their standing as a top contender.
2. **Mahanoy Area (8-1, 5-0)**: Also undefeated in league play, Mahanoy Area is coming off a strong 46-23 victory over Minersville. They are positioned to make a significant impact in their upcoming match against Lourdes.
3. **Schuylkill Haven (8-3, 5-0)**: The Hurricanes are in pursuit of their second consecutive Schuylkill League Championship title, led by McKenna Runkle, who averages 14.1 points per game. They face North Schuylkill in a crucial matchup on January 6.
4. **Williams Valley (4-1, 2-2)**: Williams Valley has faced challenges this season but has solidified its skills with a notable win over Pine Grove. They are looking to continue their success in upcoming games.
5. **Marian Catholic (6-4, 3-2)**: After recently defeating Schuylkill Haven, Marian is led by Addy Marek, who averages 16.2 points per game. They aim to extend their winning streak against Williams Valley.
6. **Pine Grove (8-3, 4-1)**: Maintaining a 4-1 league record, Pine Grove has secured victories against multiple opponents, including Pottsville and Minersville.
7. **North Schuylkill (6-3, 5-0)**: North Schuylkill is showing promise with key players such as seniors Mya Conti and Jadelin Stitzer. They will look to defend their home court against Schuylkill Haven.
8. **Tamaqua (8-3, 3-2)**: Coming off a win against Mahanoy Area, Tamaqua is led by Millie Black, who averages 14.5 points per game. They face challenging matchups against Schuylkill Haven and North Schuylkill in the coming days.
These rankings serve as an early indicator of the competitive landscape within high school basketball as teams strive for league titles and playoff berths in the months ahead.
