The Chicago high school basketball scene is buzzing with excitement, and the latest rankings are sure to spark some passionate debates! Michael O'Brien's Super 25 rankings for January 25, 2026, reveal a few surprises and some well-deserved recognition.
But first, let's talk about the standout moment from the When Sides Collide shootout. It wasn't a buzzer-beater or a jaw-dropping dunk; instead, it was a heartfelt tribute. Benet coach Gene Heidkamp, after defeating Warren, took the time to praise Warren's junior sensation, Jaxson Davis. Heidkamp, who has faced numerous talented guards, including the likes of Jalen Brunson and Tyler Ulis, believes Davis is exceptional. This acknowledgment is significant, especially for a coach who just secured a win against the talented player.
Here's where it gets intriguing: Heidkamp's admiration for Davis goes beyond the court. He appreciates Davis's impact on Illinois high school basketball, even though he'd rather not face him again! This respect for a player from a rival team is a testament to Davis's talent and character. And the question on everyone's mind: Will Davis stay in Illinois for his senior year? The state has seen many basketball prodigies leave for prep schools, and Davis's future is still undecided.
If Davis stays, he'll be a legend. He could be the beacon that keeps Illinois high school basketball thriving when others choose to leave. But will he be the hero Illinois needs? Only time will tell.
Now, onto the Public League Playoffs, where history is about to be made. For the first time in nearly two decades, all 107 Public League teams will battle for the city title. The tournament structure is complex, with sectional play-ins and directional tournaments. The top four teams from each directional tournament will advance to the city championship tournament, starting on February 12, with the final showdown on February 20 at UIC.
As for the Super 25 rankings, the When Sides Collide event caused some shifts. Benet and DePaul Prep survived upset attempts, while Neuqua Valley's thrilling comeback against Bolingbrook boosted them to No. 6. Glenbard North's loss to Batavia saw them drop out, and New Trier fought their way back into the rankings after a strong week. The Trevians, despite early setbacks, proved their resilience.
The rankings are as follows:
- Benet (23-1) - Size and depth are their strengths.
- DePaul Prep (20-3) - Rykan Woo is a dominant force.
- Curie (19-1) - The favorites for the city title.
- Kankakee (16-1) - A tough week lies ahead.
- Warren (17-2) - Fell just short against Benet.
- Neuqua Valley (21-1) - The supporting cast is stepping up.
- Homewood-Flossmoor (19-2) - A big week with three wins.
- Marist (19-3) - Lost to DePaul.
- Bolingbrook (14-6) - Missing Trey Brost.
- Evanston (18-3) - Winning despite being short-handed.
- Waukegan (16-5) - Faces Warren on Tuesday.
- St. Ignatius (19-2) - Lost to Loyola.
- Mount Carmel (15-7) - Lost to Homewood-Flossmoor and DePaul.
- Loyola (17-5) - Dominating the Jesuit Cup.
- Glenbard East (21-2) - Takes on Yorkville Christian on Tuesday.
- St. Patrick (16-3) - Travels to Marist on Tuesday.
- Palatine (20-3) - Defeated Hersey.
- Young (18-6) - Marquis Clark is breaking records.
- Kaneland (20-0) - Cocroft leads the charge.
- Fremd (18-2) - Upset by Lakes.
- Hersey (15-4) - Faces Neuqua Valley on Saturday.
- York (19-3) - Defeated Hillcrest.
- Glenbrook North (17-5) - Hosts New Trier on Friday.
- Cary-Grove (20-2) - Hosts Jacobs on Tuesday.
- New Trier (16-6) - Back on the rise.
And there you have it! The Super 25 rankings are sure to fuel discussions among fans and coaches alike. But the real question is, do these rankings truly reflect the heart and soul of Illinois high school basketball? Share your thoughts and let the debate begin!
