The rankings of the top high school boys basketball teams in the Long Beach area by The Press-Telegram will soon be updated with the release of the CIF-Southern Section playoff brackets on Sunday, Feb. 4, at noon.
BOYS BASKETBALL TOP 10
(Up to date records as of Sunday, Jan. 28)
1. St. John Bosco (22-4): Brandon McCoy Jr., a talented sophomore guard, maintains an average of 17.6 points and 7.9 rebounds per game. St. John Bosco is gearing up for a crucial matchup against Mater Dei, with the winner likely securing the Trinity League title and a favorable seed in the CIF-Southern Section Open Division playoffs.
Previous Ranking: 1
2. St. Pius X-St. Matthias (20-4): With a strong aspiration to qualify for the CIF-SS Open Division playoffs, the Warriors have already secured the Del Rey League title. A victory against Bishop Montgomery and Serra this week would mark an undefeated league play for St. Pius X. Noteworthy performances by senior guard Tyrone Riley and junior forward Douglas Langford have been instrumental in their success.
Previous Ranking: 2
3. Los Alamitos (21-5): Despite a narrow 66-65 loss to Mater Dei, the Griffins have shown their competitiveness, leading to a well-deserved rise to the third spot. Coach Nate Berger achieved his 100th win last week, solidifying Los Alamitos as a team to keep an eye on in the upcoming Division 1 playoffs.
Previous Ranking: 4
4. La Mirada (20-7): Riding high on a nine-game winning streak, the Matadores secured consecutive Gateway League titles. Junior guard MJ Smith’s impressive triple-double performance contributed significantly to La Mirada’s recent victories. Their upcoming match against Downey will determine their undefeated league play status.
Previous Ranking: 3
5. St. Anthony (18-7): Engaged in a competitive battle for second place in the Del Rey League, the Saints are vying for an automatic playoff berth with crucial matchups ahead. St. Anthony is poised to make an impact in the Division 2AA playoffs.
Previous Ranking: 5
6. Lakewood (20-6): Positioned to potentially claim the Moore League title, the Lancers are in contention with Long Beach Poly. Their performance in the Division 2A playoffs is highly anticipated.
Previous Ranking: 6
7. Long Beach Poly (17-8): With an impressive record of 13 wins in the last 14 games, the Jackrabbits are set to face tough opponents this week. Long Beach Poly’s talent makes them a formidable competitor in the Division 2A playoffs.
Previous Ranking: 7
8. Lynwood (17-9): Led by sophomore point guard Jason Crowe Jr., Lynwood’s recent victories have showcased his exceptional skills, including a remarkable triple-double and high-scoring performances. The Knights are considered top contenders in the upcoming Division 3A playoffs.
Previous Ranking: 8
9. Cabrillo (15-11): Currently on a three-game winning streak, the Jaguars, led by junior point guard Lincoln Dean, are on the verge of securing a playoff spot for the first time since 2016. Cabrillo is a team to watch in the Division 4A playoffs.
Previous Ranking: 10
10. Valley Christian (14-12): Despite facing challenges in the Olympic League, the Defenders displayed resilience with a notable victory over Mayfair in a recent nonleague game.
Previous Ranking: 9
Other notable teams: Wilson (15-11), Mayfair (10-13), Cerritos (15-10), Jordan (12-14), Artesia (16-9).