UPDATE: The 2026 Scholastic Play By Play Classic kicks off Sunday in Euclid, Ohio, featuring a blockbuster lineup as Lutheran East claims the top spot in the cleveland.com boys basketball Top 25. Just confirmed, Lutheran East ascends to No. 1 after Brunswick’s unexpected defeat to unbeaten Gilmour Academy earlier this week.
This pivotal matchup is set to unfold at noon on January 2, 2026, with five exciting games scheduled, starting with Rhodes (4-2) taking on Lutheran West (3-4). Rhodes nearly staged a comeback last weekend against Hawken, thanks to senior guard Jahavi Dye, who contributed 20 points.
The stakes are high as three teams—Lutheran East, Garfield Heights, and Brunswick—will all be vying for supremacy in a fierce competition. Rhodes will be looking to change their fortune against the struggling Lutheran West, who recently welcomed back standout junior forward Aiden Monroe after an injury hiatus.
As the excitement builds, Hawken (8-1) is preparing for a rematch from last season’s Division IV state semifinals. Coach Greg Price expressed his team’s determination:
“We’re thinking about it a lot. It’s more about showing we can compete.”
The Hawks are riding a four-game winning streak since their only loss in overtime.
Another key game features Brunswick (7-1) facing St. Vincent-St. Mary (4-4). With Trey Drexler leading the charge, the Blue Devils aim to rebound from their recent loss. Coach Dru Joyce II has emphasized a pressing defense that will challenge Brunswick’s top-tier backcourt.
The day’s finale showcases new No. 1 Lutheran East against host Euclid (5-3), who is under the guidance of first-year coach Quentin Rogers. Lutheran East has built an impressive resume, including victories over last year’s Division II state champion, Westerville North, and Division I state finalist Reynoldsburg.
In addition to the Play By Play Classic, fierce rivalry action continues as No. 2 St. Edward (6-0) battles No. 3 St. Ignatius (5-3) on January 1, 2026, at Public Hall, with a 5:30 p.m. tipoff.
As the basketball season heats up, fans are encouraged to stay tuned for thrilling matchups, player performances, and the latest rankings. With the new year dawning, the urgency to witness these top-tier talents on the court has never been more acute. Don’t miss out on the action—share your excitement as the Play By Play Classic approaches!
