2026-27 Minneapolis City Conference Preview

This is the 9th preview in my 2026-2027 season preview series.  Week 2 ends with a look at the Minneapolis City Conference.  For a list of all the season previews, click here.

Camden Patriots (2025-26 season 9-18, 3-9 Conference, 6th)
The Patriots are coming off a very dysfunctional season.  Star forward Malik Martin has transferred to arch rival North.  Forwards Lamar McBride and Traequan White lead the offense along with point guard Lavon Jordan.  There are young guards such as Dupree Smith and Damien Barnes who will see time too.

Edison Tommies (2025-26 season 8-18, 0-12 Conference, 7th)
The rebuild continues for Edison.  Most of the rotation was seniors so there won't be much experience.  The main loss is guard Malakai Fernandes who was their top 3 point threat.  Zion Morgan-Young and Marcellus Williams lead the small crew of returnees.

North Polars (2025-26 season 15-13, 7-5 Conference, Tie 3rd)
Jerome Williams takes over the Polars program.  Losing 9 seniors won't be a problem though.. Along with a JV squad that won the league, it will be a roster rebuilt with transfers.  Malik Martin from Camden, Kristian Ward and Harrison Weisneth from Hiawatha and in a bit of irony, Marcus Marshall returns after a year at Maranatha.  There are others too.  Watching how this roster comes together will be very interesting.  They will be as talented as any team in AA.

Roosevelt Teddies (2025-26 season 11-16 5-7 Conference, 5th)
The Teddies have to replace 40 PPG from their standout backcourt duo of Calvin Peterson and Cam Sundeen.  Nobody else averaged double figures and no starters return.  Danny Soucek provides an inside option.  Senior wings Daevion Stampley (7.4 PPG) and Mohamed Abib are the top returnees.  Juniors Landon Knox and Lucas Larson will see backcourt time.         

South Tigers (2025-26 season 21-10, 10-2 Conference, Tie 1st)
Long time coach Joe Hyser has stepped down.  Assistant Ray McCollough takes over for him.  South was poised to make another run in section 3AAA but an old tale of a bunch of guys leaving strikes again. Their leading backcourt duo of Jumair Wright and Ramadan Ibrahim is gone.  Wright to prep school and Ibrahim is now at Washburn.  Big man LA Gales is now in Detroit.  He was one of the top bigs in the league.  Wing Chad Robertson and mobile shot blocking forward Jake Dixon do return though.  Reshawn Jones will be another front line option.

Southwest Lakers (2025-26 season 11-16, 7-5 Conference, Tie 3rd)
Leading scorer Dashiell Erickson (13.7 PPG) needs to be replaced.  Wing Niko Case (10 PPG) should step into that role nicely as the top returning scorer.  Guard Adnan Mohamed and wing Owen Boarman also provide perimeter scoring.  Senior Riley Kelley returns to run the point.  As in past years, I wouldn't be shocked to see them find a group of juniors to join all those seniors in a rotation that plays 9 or 10 guys.

Washburn Millers (2025-26 season 15-12, 10-2 Conference, Tie 1st)
Coach Myles Shepherd has to replace his entire front line group of Ryker Van Nostrand, Brayden Gorton and Michael Stevens.  That's 35 PPG to replace with 6 of the top 7 scorers graduating.  South transfer Ramadan Ibraham (17.9 PPG) will step into that top offensive option role nicely.  Wing Amir Bobmanuel had a very productive summer and looks to have a much expanded role.  Senior guard Finley Carlson is the top returning scorer at 7.8 PPG.  Soph guard Lamarr Knighten should also see major minutes.  Hope Academy transfer Jacob Samuel is an interior candidate.  Expect them to be more perimeter oriented but still be a hard-nosed defensive squad.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. North
2. Washburn     
3. Southwest 
   
4. Camden 
5. South  
6. Roosevelt 
7. Edison 

Conference Overview
North is too talented to not pick to win the league.  But seeing Washburn get a piece of a 4th straight title could happen if there aren't enough basketballs to go around at North.  Southwest is too consistent and has enough returning to keep in the 3 slot.  Camden by default of their talent gets the 4 spot but after a 6th place finish last year and losing their top guy plus their youth, I could see that falling too.  Roosevelt loses even more than South.  Edison again tries to see if they can win a league game.

Conference MVP: Marcus Marshall - North

Underclassmen to watch:  

• Damien Barnes, Juke Gregory, Dupree Smith, Lamar McBride - Camden
• Jemierre Davis - North 
• Lamarr Knighten - Washburn 

Conference Games to Watch

• Washburn at North - Jan 12th
• North at Washburn - Feb 23th
• Twin Cities Game - Mar 6th (Minneapolis Champion)

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• North vs Montevideo - Dec 12th (Tipoff Classic at SW Christian)
• North at SW Christian - Dec 18th 
• Washburn at Buffalo - Jan 2nd 
• Holy Family at North - Jan 7th 
• North vs Minnehaha - Jan 18th (MLK Showcase at St. Paul Johnson)
• Washburn at Tartan - Jan 19th  
• Maranatha at North - Feb 16th 
• Washburn at Minnehaha - Feb 19th 

2026-27 St. Paul City Conference Preview

This is the 8th preview in my 2026-2027 season preview series.  Now its time to look at the city leagues and St. Paul goes first.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Central Minutemen (2025-26 season 25-4, 12-0 Conference, 1st)
After winning a school record 25 games, the Minutemen have to replace 11 seniors and their entire starting lineup.  That includes league co-MVPs Eli Moseman (17.7 PPG) and Sefi Whittington.  Once again they'll reload from their 1st place JV squad.  A pair of juniors from that group will be this year's leaders.  Guard Mack Phillips will lead the backcourt group and be the top offensive threat.  Forward Tyler Mortellaro anchors the inside.  Seniors Tristan Geraets and Dominick Parker will also see significant minutes.

Como Park Cougars (2025-26 season 7-20, 6-6 Conference, Tie 3rd)
Como Park has to replace 5 starters and their top 6 scorers.  Juniors Marcel Bolden and Frankie Leary should be top options.  Freshman Landon Williams-Newirk should also see plenty of minutes for a small lineup.

Harding Knights (2025-26 season 4-23, 0-12 Conference, 7th)
From a 1st state trip in forever to a school record 23 losses.  That's the price of losing a big senior class.  The Knights took their lumps and a large chunk of the roster.  Junior guard Derek Green is the lone double figure scorer.  Fellow juniors Demonte Gibson and Aiden Jordan join him as returnees to the wing rotation.  Point guard Pierre Glass returns along with impossible to move big man Joe Myatt inside.  Those 2 seniors will be the leaders.  Sophs Jarell Fung-A-Fatt and Javaughn Moffett also saw plenty of time last season.

Highland Park Scots (2025-26 season 15-12, 6-6 Conference, Tie 3rd)
The Scots look to make another jump in year 2 for coach Zach Towle.  He has a nice inside duo to build around.  Combo guard Leo Clifford (20 PPG) will be one of the best players in the league.  Forward Izaiah Davis (13.9 PPG) looks to have another good year inside.  They were the top 2 scorers last season.  Cooper Johnson and senior Will Walter return on the wings.  They'll miss the toughness of Romello Horton inside.  Tartan transfer Kenny Brown could be an answer for that.

Humboldt Hawks (2025-26 season 16-11, 6-6 Conference, Tie 3rd)
Former Anoka assistant Cornelius Hollingsworth takes over after the best Humboldt season this century and since possibly their last league title in 1978.  That was before the league consolidated into what is essentially the current structure.  He needs to replace 3 of the top 4 scorers.  Wing Jakar Rice (17.3 PPG) graduated and forward Taurean Williams (15.4 PPG) followed coach Sam Esboldt to South St. Paul.  Senior guard Fadil Alabi (15.6 PPG) is a career 1000 point scorer.  He'll lead the offense with wing Keith Whitlow.  Luke Hobday and Calvin Hoenisch also return to the rotation.

Johnson Governors (2025-26 season 20-7, 10-2 Conference, 2nd)
The Govs have to replace their 2 top scorers in athletic wing Jermaine Curtis-Thomas (13 PPG) and center Kenny Turner (12.6 PPG). Plenty of firepower and experience return though.  Colin Moore Jr (10.8 PPG) runs the show at the point and is the top returning scorer.  He leads a deep guard lineup that also includes Guarino Kamp, AJ Howard and Kaiden Elphage.  David Addai and Elijah Benepe will be the interior rotation.  Addai is coming off a productive summer for Hoop Habits Elite.

Washington Eagles (2025-26 season 9-17, 2-10 Conference, 6th)
Senior forward Noah Rieger (17.7 PPG) is the top returning scorer.  He's the top forward for the front line strength of this roster.  Lesean Andrewin also averaged double figures inside with 11 PPG.  Junior Jonathon Gibson is the top returning guard.  The rest of the backcourt crew will be very inexperienced.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Johnson 
   
2. Highland Park 
3. Central  
4. Harding  
5. Como Park     
6. Humboldt
7. Washington

Conference Overview:
Can Highland Park break the lock that Central and Johnson have had on the Twin Cities Game?  I think they're neck and neck with Johnson for the top spot.  Johnson slightly deeper and the tradition gives them the nod.  The Scots lost by 1 to Johnson at home last year but got smacked by 47 in the road game.  Central will just reload and be the best of the rest.  Then it drops off to the bottom 4.  In a league full of guards, being weakest at guard puts Washington at the bottom.  Harding with everything they have coming back should move up but they were winless in league play last year.  Como Park and Humboldt have a ton to replace.

Conference MVP: Leo Clifford - Highland Park

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Landon Williams-Newirk - Como Park 
• Jarell Fung-A-Fatt, Javaughn Moffett - Harding 
• Charlie Egbert - Highland Park
• Jamir White - Humboldt 

Conference Games to Watch

• Highland Park at Johnson - Jan 22nd 
• Johnson at Highland Park - Feb 17th
• Twin Cities Game - Mar 6th (Minneapolis Champion)
  

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Johnson vs Hibbing - Dec 12th (Southside Showcase at Benilde-St. Margaret's)
• Johnson vs Richfield - Dec 29th (Capital City Classic)
• Highland Park vs Maranatha - Jan 18th (MLK Showcase at Johnson)
• Minnehaha at Johnson - Feb 23rd

2026-27 Tri-Metro Conference Preview

This is the 7th preview in my 2026-2027 season preview series.  Week 2 of the previews continues with a look at the Tri-Metro Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are generated, click here.

Academy of Holy Angels Stars (2025-26 season 15-13, 7-9 Conference, 5th)
AHA needs to replace star wing and leading scorer Blake Nixon (15.7 PPG).  Shooter Arjun Jain (12.2 PPG) and Ike DePoint (11.7 PPG) will lead the offense.  Peter Koenig and Keegan Spence also return to the guard rotation.  Replacing the ball handling of Rhikenzo Lee and the size of Daniel Devine and Jake Winston are questions to answer.

Bloomington Kennedy Eagles (2025-26 season 12-15, 6-10 Conference, Tie 6th)
Kennedy returns 2 starters including junior point guard Judah Mithell (22.8 PPG).  But interior star Mus Mwenentanda (22.8 PPG) moving to Omaha leaves a huge hole inside.   Junior Jackson Giles will have to step into that interior role. Mitchell loses a pick and roll partner but I wouldn't be shocked to see him average 25-30 PPG with a perpetual green light.  Khalil Wertz Copeland and Parker Redmon are 2 more juniors returning to the lineup.  Add in a couple of freshman guards, Xander Bain and Jerrell Washington, that saw a ton of time last year.  

Brooklyn Center Centaurs (2025-26 season 3-22, 0-15 Conference, 9th)
Aloysius Vah is the top returnee.  Te'Shaun Thomas will be the man inside.  CJ Jones would have been a top option but he's another member of the long list of transfers to Minneapolis North.  The JV was very young last year so experience will be limited.  On the bright side, the Centaurs will have home games once again.  That's after playing all of last season on the road due to their home gym being unplayable.

Columbia Heights Hylanders (2025-26 season 14-12, 8-7 Conference, 4th)
Leading scorer Jayvion Gardner (16.4 PPG) is also now at Minneapolis North.  They also graduate top guards Judah Caine, Kahlil Mkali and Alan Moore in a group of 10 seniors.  That leaves guard Nico Luitjens Weatherspoon and Demarcus Whitmore as the top returning players.  

DeLaSalle Islanders (2025-26 season 25-4, 15-1 Conference, Tie 1st, AAA State Runner-Up)
Leading scorer and 6th man Kamar Thomas (16.1 PPG) is off to prep school but the Islanders still have plenty of firepower.  Lefty Jaeden Udean (15.1 PPG) can go for 30 at anytime with deep range.  Forward Ichima Idoko is a top junior in the state.  South Dakota State commit Deon Wallace-Johnson is an elite role guy who doesn't need to score.  Taaj Whitlock can also be a ballhandler for them.  Omar Ali can give them a true big guy and he has range too.  The junior class is loaded with depth options too such as Jonas McCreary and Max Winston.

Fridley Tigers (2025-26 season 10-15, 6-10 Conference, Tie 6th)
The Tigers need to replace guards Brein Robinson and Tyler Osell and wing Shamarion Evans.  Forward Jenovic Kandinula leads the front line.  Avion Johnson, Ta'marjay Hicks and soph Dee Lacy-Martin will lead the backcourt along with leading returning scorer Tyrone Washington (14.7 PPG).

Richfield Spartans (2025-26 season 29-3, 14-2 Conference, Tie 1st)
The transfer of Waleed Muhammed (13.5 PPG) to Hopkins leaves a big hole at the lead guard spot.  The Spartans will still be one of the most high octane offenses in the state though.  Dre Collins thrives in the running game.  Tyrece Hagler can score in a hurry from the wing.  Gideon Horne returns as the primary forward.  Ben Heidgerken gives them an experienced guard who can be a handler.  Juniors Ian Nelson and Oscar Peterson provide guard depth.

Robbinsdale Cooper Hawks (2025-26 season 7-20, 4-12 Conference, 8th)
Guard Desmond Goines was breakout player last year for the Hawks.  He's just 1 of 3 primary scoring options that needs to be replaced.  Junior Daviion Ellison returns to run the point guard position.  Soph Elijah Thomas will be a scoring threat on the wing.  Senior wings Henry Larsen and Yanni Brown return to the starting lineup along with guard Joel Sherman.

St. Anthony Huskies (2025-26 season 14-11, 10-6 Conference, 3rd)
The Huskies have to replace their top inside and outside threats of Isaan Kitila and Brett Siroin. That's 37.5 PPG gone from the lineup.  Forward Logan Buck (13.6 PPG) is the lone double figure scorer coming back.  Ian Page and lefty wing Myles Falkner join him in the starting lineup.  Ahmed Ahmod and Cameron Lesinski provide guard depth.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. DeLaSalle 
   
2. Richfield
3. Bloomington Kennedy 
4. Holy Angels 
5. St. Anthony
6. Fridley  
7. Columbia Heights      
8. Robbinsdale Cooper  
9. Brooklyn Center    

Conference MVP: Jaeden Udean - DeLaSalle

Conference Overview:
DeLaSalle and Richfield will once again be the top tier of the league and contenders to make a state run. Kennedy loses their inside threat but their guards still make them best of the rest.  The middle tier is a toss up a couple guys returning for each roster.  I'll take Holy Angels with Arjun Jain leading the way.  The bottom 3 are all rebuilding.  Heights is the best of those.

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Henry Strand - Academy of Holy Angels
• Xander Bain, Jerrell Washington - Bloomington Kennedy 
• Rashad Smith - DeLaSalle
• Elijah Thomas - Robbinsdale Cooper 
• Dee Lacy-Martin - Fridley 

Conference Games to Watch

• DeLaSalle at Richfield - Jan 19th  
• Richfield at DeLaSalle - Feb 19th   

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Richfield vs Maple Grove - Dec 12th (Tipoff Classic at Edina)
• DeLaSalle vs Maple Grove - Dec 19th (Big Stage at Bloomington Jefferson)
• Richfield vs St. Paul Johnson - Dec 29th (Capital City Classic)
• Orono at Richfield - Jan 14th 
• DeLaSalle at Prior Lake - Feb 27th
• DeLaSalle at Buffalo - Mar 3rd

2026-27 IMAC Preview

This is the 6th preview in my 2026-2027 season preview series.  Week 2 begins with this look at the Independent Metro Athletic Conference (IMAC).  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Blake Bears (2025-26 season 19-14, 2-7 Conference, 4th)
After a Cinderella run to the state tournament, Blake fired Tyler Biwan.  The new administration selected former Benilde-St. Margaret's head coach Damien Johnson.  He'll have to replace one of the league's top players in guard Carson McMichael (22.6 PPG) along with 3 other starters.  Soph wing Trameill White (10.5 PPG) had a terrific freshman campaign and is the top returning scorer.  Frosh guard Niles Bennett was a major rotation piece as well.  Senior forward Benji Dillon (9.9 PPG) provides size and experience and will see a bigger scoring role.

Breck Mustangs (2025-26 season 11-17, 7-2 Conference, 2nd)
Breck's season took a major hit in game 1 when star guard Mu Muhammed blew out a knee.  On the interior 20.4 PPG from wing/forward JP Musoke also needs to be replaced along with 2 other productive big men.  Lots of youth from last season will get a chance to contribute this season.. Soph Peter Kiedrowski (10.2 PPG) is the top returning scorer and will fill a wing spot.  Soph Cobe Blakes and junior Max Munsell (10.1 PPG) return to lead the backcourt.  Senior Zach Lerner and junior Ryan Adey provide depth there.  Replacing the lost size is a major question.

Minnehaha Academy Redhawks (2025-26 season 26-5, 9-0 Conference, 1st, AA State Champion)
The defending state champs reloaded last year with youth and look to defend their state title with most of the roster coming back.  Forward Kellen Troup had a breakout season with 19.7 PPG and was a dominant force.  The backcourt is loaded with senior Ayden Green (17.3 PPG) and top freshman Carter Cupito (12.4 PPG) returning.  Soph Mekhi Abner (9.7 PPG) developed into a very productive complement to Troup up front.  Former CDH player Donovin Diaz returns from Florida and joins the roster on the wing.  Masen Thao and Joffrey Wilson provide experience as backup guards along with Kamar Sandifer Howze as another option up front.

Mounds Park Academy Panthers (2025-26 season 10-16, 1-6 Conference, 6th)
The Panthers return their top 2 scorers.  Wing Omar Said (19.3 PPG) will be one of the league's top scorers.  Soph guard Owen Johnston also averaged double figures at 13.6 PPG.  Junior guard Zamin Ali would have been an option but he's now at Edina.  Soph Logan Metcalf will provide backcourt depth.  Not much size on the roster.

Providence Academy Lions (2025-26 season 7-22, 2-8 Conference, 5th)
Providence went with a significant youth movement last season.  Seniors Matthew Schaffer and Noah Boro (8.2 PPG) return as the top offensive options along with point guard Leo Giwa.  Colton Perrill and soph Sachin Bloch provide further options in the backcourt.  Soph Dexter Seelen is the top interior option.  Senior Jack Servi is another experienced front court option.

St. Paul Academy Spartans (2025-26 season 2-8, 6-4 Conference, 3rd)
SPA has 2 major threats to replace in their lineup.  The graduation of wing Ezra Cunningham (22.2 PPG) and shooter Ben Sieben (16.2 PPG).  That leaves senior guard John Grinsrud (15.4 PPG) as the top remaining option.  Junior Magarsaa Mullataa will join him in the backcourt and should bump his scoring into double figures.  Fellow junior Palmer Olson will also be in the perimeter rotation.  The Spartans also have questions about how the interior will look.  Elliot Pierach is one option there.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Minnehaha
2. Breck 
3. Blake 
   
4. St. Paul Academy  
   
5. Providence   
6. Mounds Park Academy 

Conference Overview
Minnehaha is the runaway favorite here with most everything returning.  Blake and Breck should battle for 2nd.  I'll give Breck the nod as I think they're deeper and don't have to adjust to a new head coach.  St. Paul Academy's guard play should make them the best of the rest.  Providence and Mounds Park continue to build.

Conference MVP: Kellen Troup - Minnehaha

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Niles Bennett, Trameill White - Blake
• Cobe Blades, Peter Kiedrowski - Breck 
• Carter Cupito, Mekhi Abner - Minnehaha 
• Owen Johnston, Logan Metcalf - Mounds Park Academy 
• Sachin Bloch, Dexter Seelen, Tommy Willihnganz - Providence 

Conference Games to Watch

• Minnehaha at Breck - Jan 22nd
• Minnehaha at Blake - Feb 2nd

 Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Orono at Minnehaha- Dec 4th
• Minnehaha vs Maple Grove - Dec 30th (Capital City Classic at Hamline)
• Minnehaha vs Minneapolis North - Jan 18th (MLK Showcase at St. Paul Johnson) 
• Minnehaha at SW Christian - Feb 9th
• Minnehaha at St. Paul Johnson - Feb 23rd

2026-27 Skyline Conference Preview

This is the 5th preview in my 2026-27 season preview series.  Week 1 concludes with a look at the Skyline Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Concordia Academy Beacons (2025-26 season 17-12, 11-5 Conference, Tie 3rd)
Concordia went with a younger roster last season and that should pay off for the Beacons in 2026-27.  The top 6 rotation guys return including 3 double figures scorers.  Senior guards Langston Huffman (22.3 PPG), Logan Duis (14.7 PPG) and Dejon Scott (14.4 PPG) lead the offense.  Junior PG Jake Smith runs the show as a pass first point guard.  Junior forward Zeid Ndiaye (7 PPG) is a high upside guy with senior Judah Shepp (8.7 PPG) on the front line.

Legacy Christian Academy Lions (2025-26 season 17-11, 11-5 Conference, Tie 3rd)
The Lions have to replace all 3 double figure scorers and 4 of their top 5.  Forward Max Leifker (20.6 PPG) graduated along with guards Ty Nelson, Hudson Strand and Josh Held.  That's 62 PPG a game that needs to be replaced.  The scoring should be replaced by senior Braylon Ylkanen (7.1 PPG) and soph Silas Kardell (5.9 PPG).  Junior Henry Canfield (12.7 PPG) transferring across the league from St. Croix Prep will add a big boost to the offense.  Seniors Dallas Berry and Matthew Mulvihill will see plenty of time at guard spots as well.  The replacement for Leifker's size is a major question mark

Maranatha Christian Academy Mustangs (2025-26 season 25-4, 16-0 Conference, 1st)
Maranatha swept the league last year and looks to do the same this season.  Marcus Marshall has returned to Minneapolis North but transfer Lincoln Busse should step right into replace the 21.3 PPG lost.  Busse averaged 26.3 PPG at Glencoe-Silver Lake last season.  He's part of a deep guard rotation that will also include Ira Thomas (11.3 PPG), Chris Daniels (7.4 PPG) and soph Timmy Thomas (7.2 PPG).  Junior forward Erik Bakke  (4.5 PPG) is a breakout candidate inside with the graduation of Teni  Phillips (12.5 PPG).  Who backs him up will be a question mark. Senior Noah Schirmers is one of those options.

New Life Academy Eagles (2025-26 season 14-14, 5-11 Conference, 6th)
New Life returns their top 2 double figure scorers.  Lefty John Norring (15.1 PPG) and shooter Evan Seaton (17.9 PPG) aren't big but the seniors can both score it.  Soph Collin Michaelis joins them as a top offensive option.  Senior forward James Hudson (6.9 PPG) is the top interior guy returning.  Seniors Dylan Wall and Jayden DeBoer also return to the rotation.

St. Agnes Aggies (2025-26 season 9-18, 4-12 Conference, 7th)
The Aggies once again have a new head coach as Ian Mahler takes over the program.  He stays in the league and along Dale St as he was previously on the Concordia staff.  The roster is mostly intact after losing just 1 senior.  Senior guards Benett Davis and Thomas Plasch both averaged double figures last season.  Sam Ekholm and Declan Cudd are the returning forwards.  Its a small and not terribly athletic roster but they are experienced.

St. Croix Lutheran Crusaders (2025-26 season 19-10, 14-2 Conference, 2nd)
The Crusaders were a major surprise last year after losing their top 6 players but then they swept everybody in the league except Maranatha.  Can they do it again having to replace 4 starters and 8 of the top 9?  Senior guard Noah Little is the lone returnee after leading the team in scoring last season at 13.7 PPG.  Cameron Oakland looks to be the main interior threat.  Evan Fry, Grady Peterson and Filippo Depaoli look to be next up to fill out the rotation.

St. Croix Prep Lions (2025-26 season 16-12, 8-8 Conference, 5th)
Former Spring Lake Park assistant Karl Haynus takes over the program.  He has to replace top interior threat Logan Eiselt (13.3 PPG) and Henry Canfield.  Senior wing Ali Akram (15.2 PPG) will have to carry a big load on offense.  Senior Patrick McGurran joins them as a returning starter.  Junior guards Graham Beckmann and Owen Schrader should provide the perimeter depth.  Junior Bennett Eiselt looks to be the main replacement for the interior production.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Maranatha  
2. Concordia  
3. Legacy  
4. St. Croix Prep  
5. St. Croix Lutheran      
6. New Life   
7. St. Agnes 
   

Conference Overview
Its a year of change in the Skyline with Nova Classical and Trinity departing for smaller leagues and a chance to be more competitive.  That's just a year after Cristo Rey did the same.  Maranatha enters the season with a 21 game league winning streak and I see that extending.  Along with Concordia, that is the clear top tier of the league.  The middle is jumbled.  St. Croix Lutheran and Legacy have a ton to replace but they do tend to plug guys in to their system very well.  St. Croix Prep also has a couple major holes to fill.  New Life has enough returning to contend with those teams for the top half.  St. Agnes with a new coach and system looks ahead to the future.

Conference MVP: Lincoln Busse - Maranatha

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Silas Kardell - Legacy 
• Timmy Thomas - Maranatha
• Collin Michaelis - New Life 
• Cannon Chapman - St. Croix Prep 

Conference Games to Watch

• Maranatha at Concordia - Dec 18th
• Concordia at Maranatha - Feb 2nd

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Concordia at SW Christian - Dec 12 (Tipoff Classic)
• Hope Academy at Concordia - Jan 5th  
• Hopkins at Maranatha - Jan 6th 
• Concordia at Goodhue -  Jan 9th
• Maranatha vs St. Paul Highland Park - Jan 18th (MLK at St. Paul Johnson) 
• Holy Family at Concordia - Jan 19th
• Maranatha at Minneapolis North - Feb 16th 
• St. Paul Highland Park at Concordia - Feb 26th

2026-27 MCAA Preview

This is the 4th preview in my 2026-27 season preview series.  We continue the conference previews with a look at the Minnesota Classic Athletic Association (MCAA).  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Christ's Household of Faith Lions (2025-26 season 10-14, 3-6 Conference, Tie 4th South)
The Lions will not field a varsity roster this season.

Eagle Ridge Academy Gryphons (2025-26 season 10-18, 2-8 Conference, 6th South)
Eagle Ridge has a new head  coach in former SW Christian assistant Issac Williams.  He has to replace 4 starters including forwards Chris Asuma and Hamza Said.  In the backcourt, guard Braxton Ray needs to be replaced.  Juniors Noah Woodlee and Demetric Wleh look to be top offensive options along with senior Sam Crowley.  

Heritage Christian Academy Eagles (2025-26 season 21-8, 6-4 Conference, Tie 2nd North)
Coach Tim Herman took a totally rebuilt roster to the section final last season.  This season he returns 3 major pieces who are all seniors.  Forward Aaron Palmer missed most of the season before returning late. He'll be one of the top forwards in the league.  Logan Comfort (10.5 PPG) and Isaiah Coyle (13.3 PPG) return as double figure scorers who can play inside or out.  Juniors Max Voelker, Judah Ormiston and Eli Olk provide quality depth.  That should offset the loss of wing Jesper Synstelien and guard Griffin Booms who combined for almost 25 PPG last season

Lakes International Language Academy Dragons (2025-26 season 9-19, 2-7 Conference, 5th North)
Junior PG Jackson Dowd (20.5 PPG) is a triple double threat on any night and will be one of the top scorers in the league.  3 other juniors return to the starting lineup with him.  Guards Blayne Pledeman and Brevick Gunderson join Dowd in the backcourt.  Pledeman gives the Dragons another shooter.  Malaki Dorschner returns to the front line.  Rest of the roster is underclassmen as the Dragons had no juniors last year.  Sophs Jagger Dowd and frosh Aksel Gunderson round out the top 5 returning scorers at the guard spots

Liberty Classical Academy Lions (2025-26 season 29-3, 10-0 Conference, 1st North)
Liberty has to replace almost 50 PPG from league MVP Sam Rupnow and Ethan Richter on the wings.  But the cupboard isn't bare for coach John Towle.  Point guard Cruz Triana (13.7 PPG) and athletic forward Jimmy Youtsey (11.5 PPG) are top options.  William Gilbert provides another front court option.  Caleb Schmidt is a returning wing starter.

Math and Science Academy Dragons (2025-26 season 9-17, 3-6 Conference, Tie 4th South)
The Dragons open their new facility this season.  Its right next door to East Ridge.  The perimeter duo of junior Elisse Voumadi  (17.2 PPG) and senior Jacob Balami (14.7 PPG) returns and is one of the best combos in the league. What the rest of the roster can do to help them is a major concern.  Juniors Hao Tan and Nathan Bekele provide rotation experience.  Beyond that there's very limited experience.

Mayer Lutheran Crusaders (2025-26 Season 19-9, 9-1 Conference, 1st South)
The Crusaders look to expand on last year's division title with their entire rotation coming back.  Guard Ben Lindesmith and wing Carter Neitzel lead the returning starters.  Both are solid 3 point shooters.  Wyatt Sunde is a quality forward who can play inside or out.  3 sophomores also return to the rotation with them.  

North Lakes Academy Huskies (2025-26 season 6-22, 0-10 Conference, 6th North)
North Lakes has to replace 3 starters including double figure scorer Levi Molitor and his 11.9 PPG.  The lineup has no size.  Mason Owen and sophomore Owen Culp will be undersized forwards.  The top 3 returning scorers are guards Camilo Ironshell (11.8 PPG) and junior Micah Molitor. Sophomore Dimitry Morgan will see time on the wing.

Nova Classical Academy Knights (2025-26 season 8-19, 2-14 Skyline Conference, 8th)
Nova Classical moves into the MCAA from the Skyline.  The starting lineup loses leading scorer Caleb Taylor (14.9 PPG) and wing Kincaid Gerber.  Senior wing Abe Brady (10.1 PPG) will be this season's top offensive option.  Caleb Swecker is a developing lanky forward.  Will Shephard is undersized as another member of the inside rotation.  Senior Finn Penniman is a returning starter in the backcourt.  Junior Owen Lohse joins that perimeter crew along with Hazen Hintz.

PACT Charter Panthers (2025-26 season 19-8, 6-4 Conference, Tie 2nd North)
2018 alum Bennett Allan takes over the Panthers program.  Leading scorer Fred Onyinkwa (17.1 PPG) is now at Anoka.  Jayden Busch and his 13.2 PPG graduated.  That leaves major holes inside and at point guard.  Caleb Engelhart (13.6 PPG) and junior forward Lucas Novitsky (7.7 PPG) look to pick up that slack.  Junior guard Jacob Johnson looks to have a bigger role.  Seniors Jeremiah Maangi and Colten Podlasek return to the rotation.

Spectrum Sting (2025-26 season 17-11, 5-4 Conference, 4th North)
Spectrum returns 3 starters.  Wing Cody Benson (23.8 PPG) is one of the league's top scorers.  Expect him to get even more chances with guard Eli Miller's 20 PPG graduating.  Julian Peterson returns on a wing with Teddy Huberty inside.  Junior Hayden Christianson is another option in the interior rotation.  Gavin Oblinger, Aiden Velsor and Tanner Meneley are other options in the guard rotation.

United Christian Academy Thunder (2025-26 season 16-12, 7-3 Conference, 2nd South)
The Thunder have 3 returning starters to build around.  Senior forward Simon Charlton (11.5 PPG) was a revelation as he was a productive big man.  He'll be one of the top big men in the league this season.  There's plenty of guard experience returning despite the graduation of leading scorer Sam Rich (16.1 PPG).  Juniors Evan Grover (10.5 PPG) and Thomas Serafin (6.5 PPG) return to the starting lineup in the backcourt.  Fellow juniors Colin Gryskiewicz and Andrew Rich should see expanded roles.

West Lutheran Warriors (2025-26 season 14-13, 5-5 Conference, 3rd South)
The Warriors have 4 senior starters coming back.  Guards Connor Rouen and Hayden Kiecker lead the offense.  Brenner Cahow returns at the point guard spot.  Bennett DeRosier returns to lead the interior play.  Beyond them depth and size are questions.

Predicted Order of Finish

1. Mayer Lutheran 
2. Heritage Christian 
3. Liberty Classical  
4. Spectrum   
5. United Christian
6. West Lutheran
7. PACT 
8. Math & Science 
9. Nova Classical
10. Eagle Ridge  
11. Lakes International 
12. North Lakes
    
    Note: CHOF has no varsity roster this season

Conference Overview
Nova Classical moves from the Skyline to the MCAA this season.  That leads to a schedule change where the league will now play just a single round-robin schedule rather than having 2 divisions.  I like Mayer Lutheran with the deepest roster in the league.  They've got guard play, size, scoring, experience and depth.  After last season, I can't discount Heritage here.  They're deeper than people think and I see another 20 win season.  Liberty loses a ton but I don't expect much drop off there as I think coach John Towle will plug guys in.  Spectrum has one of the top players in the league in Cody Benson so they can't be discounted.  United Christian had a nice run last season and could jump into that top group.  West Lutheran also has a lot coming back and will look to make a run there as well.  Then you have the bottom half of the league.  PACT with 2 major pieces gone and a new coach.  Math & Science has 2 talented guards but limited help for them has shown up in the results.  They're a wild card that could jump higher.  Nova lost their top scorer for the 2nd straight season so they'll have to find offense.  Rest of the league is building for the future.  There will be many nights of good guard matchups to watch during league play.

Conference MVP: Cody Benson - Spectrum

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Vincent Evans, Dylan Sunde, Chase Zupke - Mayer Lutheran
• Owen Culp, Dimitry Morgan - North Lakes
• Camdan Bawek - United Christian 
• Per Madson, Cody Oppitz - West Lutheran 

Conference Games to Watch

• Heritage at Liberty Classical - Jan 5th 
• Mayer Lutheran at Liberty Classical - Jan 15th 
• Heritage at Mayer Lutheran - Jan 26th 

Non-Conference Games to Watch

• Liberty Classical vs Madelia -  Dec 12th (Tipoff Classic at SW Christian)
• Liberty Classical vs Lanesboro - Jan 9th (Southern MN Hoopfest at Goodhue)
• SW Christian at Mayer Lutheran - Jan 21st
• St. Paul Highland Park at Heritage - Feb 9th
• Heritage at Hope Academy -  Feb 26th 

2026-27 EMAC Preview

This is the 3rd preview in the 2026-2027 season preview series.  We continue on with the small local schools and a look at the Eastern Minnesota Athletic Conference.  For a list of all the season previews and how they are done, click here.

Academy for Sciences and Agriculture Eagles (2025-26 season No Varsity Team)
AFSA did not play a varsity schedule last season.  Unknown if they will play a varsity schedule this season.  (Czar update 10/29/26: School closed at the end of the 25-26 school year)

Avail Academy Valor (2025-26 season 11-12, 5-4 Conference, 4th)
Avail returns 3 starters including top forward Carsten Bruin.  Senior Eli Brockmeier and junior Ezra Aune also return on the wings.  Junior guard Andon Vande Glind also returns to the rotation.  A group of 4 sophs looks to provide depth.

Community of Peace Academy Tigers (2025-26 season 3-18, 2-6 Conference, Tie 7th)
The Tigers didn't win a game last year against an opponent that was outside the league.  4 starters return including 3 that were underclassmen last year.  Junior guard Zach Dimmich-Shaw (12.6 PPG) led the team in scoring last season.  Sophomores Jaylen Phipps and Centrell Green join him on the wings along with Sincere Bradley.  Senior Achilles Madison (9.5 PPG) leads the front court.  Jiar Walker is another interior option.

Cristo Rey Jesuit Pumas (2025-26 season 3-20, 2-6 Conference, Tie 7th)
The Pumas have a lot to replace.  Guard Genric Lenoir is 1 of 3 or 4 top scorers that needs to be replaced.  Guard Marnelle Moore is a top returnee for a small lineup.  Sophs Anthony Porter and Eli Sears are undersized guards who will see lots of minutes.  Senior Tristan Fields will be the big man with soph Nemo Gutierrez backing him up.

Great Oaks Academy Royals (2025-26 season, No Varsity Team) 
Great Oaks is a new Eagan based charter school that will be playing their 1st year of a varsity schedule.

Groves Academy Griffins (2025-26 season, No Varsity Team)
Once again it appears that Groves will not play a varsity schedule

Hiawatha Colliegiate Wolves (2025-26 season 21-6, 7-0 Conference, 1st)
After last season ended it looked like this was a year for Hiawatha to be a major threat not just to win the league but to be the team representing section 5AA at state.  Then star forward and league MVP King James left for prep school and 3 other significant pieces led by Kristian Ward (12.4 PPG) also left via transfer.  2 of those to section rival Minneapolis North.  So now the season looks totally different for the Wolves.  Jaden Hollowell, Montez Brown, Myshawn Washington should make up a solid backcourt.  Tim Holmes (15.7 PPG) is the top big man in the league. Ay'veon Taylor joins him up front.

Hmong Academy Warriors (2025-26 season 10-19, 4-4 Conference, 5th)
Nate Robinson takes over the Warriors program this season.  Lone double figure scorer Xavier Yang is one of 10 seniors that needs to be replaced.  That decimates the rotation leaving limited experience and size.  Guard Houston Thao (5.9 PPG) is the top returning option.

Hope Academy Lions (2025-26 season 15-13, 7-1 Conference, 2nd)
The Lions look to make a run for the league title and maybe a section crown as they return most of their rotation. Lefty wing Jordan Moss leads the team with 17.7 PPG.  Junior point guard Tyriek Martin was the other double figure scorer at 12.4 PPG.  Senior Braylon Peterson provides shooting.  Senior Eli Samuel returns to man the paint.

International School of Minnesota/Chesterton Academy Huskies (2025-26 season 5-18, 3-4 Conference, 6th)
The Huskies have to replace the entire starting lineup  That includes top scoring option Greg Hovey inside and their single season record holder for total 3s made Vance Sabers.  It will be a very inexperienced roster with 9 seniors graduating and no juniors on last year's roster.  Note: I write this assuming they'll have a team.  Its possible their scholastic team has been replaced by their prep school academy team run by Chris Carr.

Prairie Seeds Academy Lycans (2025-26 season 2-15, 0-8 Conference, 9th)
Charles Anderson and Reed Thanadabout return on the wings.  Top offensive option Maceo Moua returns at the point guard spot for another season.  Wing Jeremy Mannah is the biggest loss.

Twin Cities Academy/Great River Tigers (2025-26 season 14-12, 6-2 Conference, 3rd)
The Tigers return 3 starters but have to replace do everything forward Jake Stiele and his 28.4 PPG.  Senior guard Jamarrion Atkins just missed double figures last season but could double that this year.  Jahlil Martin and junior Randy Carter join him as returning starters.  Germany Garcia, Jamie Tossey and Elijah Carter are also part of that perimeter rotation.  Replacing the size of Prince Normil and King Normal inside is a big question for a very small lineup.  Don't be shocked to see Atkins guard bigs on 1 end and play point guard on the other.

Trinity Tri-Hawks (2025-26 season 6-23, 1-15 Skyline Conference, 9th)
Trinity joins from the Skyline Conference and with a new coach.  Max Bohrer takes over the program.  Interesting that they dropped all the way to the EMAC rather than go back to their old home in the MCAA.  3 junior starters return.  That includes forward Teagan Nammeh and lefty point guard Jacob Bowden who both averaged just over 10 PPG.  Kenneth Kaluza, Benoit Gjengdahl and Jonathan Adbebe also return to the backcourt crew.  Nammeh is poised for a breakout type of season as a raw big man who has developed quickly.  Who backs him up is a question.

Predicted Order of Finish 

1. Hope Academy
2. Hiawatha 
3. Twin Cities Academy
4. Trinity 
5. Avail Academy
6. Community of Peace Academy 
7. Prairie Seeds 
8. Cristo Rey Jesuit 
9. Hmong Academy
10. Great Oaks
11. ISM/Chesterton 
12. AFSA
13. Groves 

Conference Overview
Great Oaks moves up to varsity status and Trinity joins from the Skyline Conference.  Expect another single round-robin schedule and don't be surprised if its not a full schedule.  Hope with most everybody back is my favorite.  Hiawatha loses a ton but they have enough talent back to make a run at the title again.  I expect the Hope vs Hiawatha game to once again decide the league title.  Twin Cities Academy and Trinity will battle for the next spot with Avail looking to jump in that group as well.  Things drop off significantly from there.  Community of Peace has the most back of the rest so I'll take them.  Rest of the league has major losses and is rebuilding.

Conference MVP: Jordan Moss - Hope Academy

Underclassmen to watch: 

• Jaylen Phipps, Centrell Green - Community of Peace 
• Anthony Porter, Eli Belyeu-Sears - Cristo Rey
• Jonathan Adbebe - Trinity 

Conference Games to Watch

• Hope at Hiawatha - Jan 11th

Non-Conference Games to Watch 

• Hiawatha at Maple Grove - December 8th 
• Hope at Concordia - Jan 5th
• Heritage at Hope -  Feb 26th