Get ready for some thrilling basketball action as we dive into the first ASWA rankings of 2026! This year, we're witnessing a shake-up at the top across six classifications, with new teams claiming the No. 1 spots.
In the girls' rankings, North Sand Mountain's team has taken the top spot in Class 2A, closely followed by their rivals, Pisgah, the defending state champions. Other top-ranked girls' teams include Hoover in 7A, Park Crossing in 6A, and Scottsboro in 5A, among others. But here's where it gets controversial... Plainview, Saint James, and Ider have all made their mark in their respective classes, but will they be able to maintain their positions throughout the season?
Now, let's talk about the boys. Undefeated Pelham has made a bold move, claiming the No. 1 spot in Class 6A with an impressive 20-0 record. Dothan, Williamson, Hale County, and Cold Springs have also joined the elite group of top-ranked teams in their classifications. However, it's important to note that Jackson, Oakwood, and Abbeville Christian have retained their positions from the previous rankings.
The updated Alabama Sports Writers Association high school basketball rankings are here, and they're packed with exciting matchups and potential upsets. With records updated through Tuesday, 1/18, let's take a closer look at the rankings for both girls and boys across all classifications.
Girls' Rankings:
- Class 7A: Hoover leads the pack with an impressive 18-1 record, followed by Albertville and Bob Jones.
- Class 6A: Park Crossing takes the top spot with a 17-1 record, closely trailed by Hazel Green.
- Class 5A: Scottsboro is ranked first with a 15-2 record, while Guntersville and Charles Henderson follow closely.
- Class 4A: Plainview claims the No. 1 position, with Good Hope and Deshler hot on their heels.
- Class 3A: Saint James is at the top, but Mars Hill Bible and Midfield are not far behind.
- Class 2A: North Sand Mountain is ranked first, with Pisgah and Sand Rock rounding out the top three.
- Class 1A: Ider takes the top spot, with Winterboro and Brilliant also making an impact.
- AISA: Springwood leads the way, with Southern Academy and Clarke Prep close behind.
Boys' Rankings:
- Class 7A: Dothan maintains its position at the top, with Hoover and Huntsville close in pursuit.
- Class 6A: Pelham is the new No. 1, with Shades Valley and Cullman not far off.
- Class 5A: Williamson has claimed the top spot, with East Limestone and Wenonah following suit.
- Class 4A: Jackson leads the pack, while Plainview and Madison Academy are also performing strongly.
- Class 3A: Hale County is ranked first, with Whitesburg Christian and Midfield providing tough competition.
- Class 2A: Cold Springs takes the No. 1 position, with Sand Rock and Section also making an impression.
- Class 1A: Oakwood is at the top, with Florala and South Lamar also featured in the rankings.
- AISA: Abbeville Christian remains unbeaten, with Valiant Cross and Edgewood also making waves.
These rankings are sure to spark some debate and discussion among basketball enthusiasts. Who do you think will maintain their positions throughout the season? Will any of these teams surprise us with their performance? Feel free to share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
Nominations for these rankings were received from various sources, including AL.com, local newspapers, and sports media outlets.
Stay tuned for more updates and exciting basketball action as the season progresses!
