News - Santa Margarita Leads Orange County Basketball Rankings

In an action-packed conclusion to the 2025-26 season, Santa Margarita secured the No. 1 spot in the final Orange County boys basketball rankings. The Eagles, despite a mixed performance in the CIF-SS Open Division playoffs, showed their prowess throughout the season, ultimately clinching their top ranking by triumphing in the Trinity League Tournament against St. John Bosco. Crean Lutheran exhibited tremendous skill and determination as they seized the CIF Southern Section Division 1 championship by defeating JSerra 59-52 in a tightly contested match. The victory reaffirmed Crean Lutheran's position at No. 2, maintaining their high standards throughout the Crestview League as they finished with a stellar 7-1 record. JSerra, holding strong at No. 3, showcased their tenacity under pressure with impressive wins, particularly their high-scoring triumph over Inglewood in the semifinals. Their journey saw them narrowly falling in the finals against Crean Lutheran, highlighting their competitive spirit in a fiercely contested season. Corona del Mar and Mater Dei rounded out the top five, both displaying remarkable consistency and performance that earned them their respective league titles and strong playoff showings. Santa Margarita’s path to the top position was marked by strategic victories and a blend of experienced gameplay, even as they faced challenging opponents in the playoffs, such as powerhouses like Sierra Canyon. Teams like Trabuco Hills and Laguna Hills made significant strides in the rankings due to their commendable playoff performances, breaking into the top 25 and demonstrating the depth of talent in the county league. Meanwhile, schools like La Habra and Los Alamitos showcased valuable efforts against formidable foes, contributing to an electrifying season filled with nail-biting encounters. The rankings are a testament to the competitive edge and dynamic nature of Orange County basketball, setting the stage for another thrilling season ahead as teams gear up to reclaim and fortify their standing, ensuring that fans will continue to witness exhilarating basketball in future tournaments.