Power Rankings Heat Up in Kalamazoo Basketball
As 2026 unfolds, Kalamazoo-area high school boys basketball is heating up, showcasing a thrilling season of athletic talent and competitive spirit. With teams battling it out on the court, some are forging ahead with impressive winning streaks. Notably, the unbeatens—Mendon and South Haven—are drawing attention with their stellar performances. Meanwhile, strong contenders like Portage Central, Kalamazoo Hackett, and Comstock also display their strength as we delve into this week’s power rankings.
Mendon: A Force to Be Reckoned With
Mendon’s basketball team is grabbing headlines due to their remarkable journey. Their recent ranking as the No. 5 team in Division 4 reflects their determination and talent. Their star players, Ryder and Owen Gorham, have become pivotal in their success, with thrilling performances that leave fans on the edge of their seats. In a recent overtime thriller against Colon, Ryder poured in 33 points and delivered eight assists, lifting the Hornets to victory. With a strong lineup featuring notable contributions from Carter Hutson, Mendon could solidify their conference position with upcoming games against Climax-Scotts and Bellevue.
Portage Central Rallies Back to Prominence
After a shaky start this season, Portage Central has rallied back, currently riding a four-game winning streak. This turnaround is led by the impressive guard duo of Ben Johnson and Kardi Colbert. Johnson’s significant milestone looms ahead as he may become the school’s all-time leading scorer in an upcoming rematch with Kalamazoo Central. The Mustangs are embodying the heart of competition, reclaiming their place among the top teams in this year’s rankings.
South Haven: Dominance from the Get-Go
With a solid undefeated record at 10-0, South Haven has established themselves as a powerhouse in Division 2. Spearheaded by star guard Noah Weaver, who recently showcased his game with 19 points against Niles Brandywine, the Rams’ experienced roster demonstrates depth and versatility on the court. Their next challenging encounter, an away game against Division 1 Zeeland East, could serve as a significant test for their credentials before taking on rival Kalamazoo Hackett in February.
Comstock’s Surprising Surge
After experiencing a rocky start, Comstock has ignited on the court, winning four consecutive games and currently sitting atop the Southwest 10 Conference. The Colts’ key player, Jayveonn Buchanan, has been crucial to their recent success, providing dynamic plays and impressive scoring. Their performance against Cassopolis not only showcased their skill but their potential for continued growth as they seek to maintain their winning streak.
Kalamazoo Hackett: The Surge Continues
As the season progresses, Kalamazoo Hackett is proving their mettle with a four-game winning streak of their own. Their recent triumph over Parchment has kept them tied at the top of the SAC-Valley Conference. Players Elijah Brooks and Leland Berg are demonstrating excellent teamwork as they lead the charge, establishing themselves as fierce competitors to look out for in the coming weeks.
Upcoming Showdowns Raise Stakes
The competitive spirit of Kalamazoo-area basketball is palpable as we anticipate upcoming games that may shape the final rankings. Teams like Kalamazoo Christian and Gobles remain just a step away in the power rankings and could shake things up. The pressure mounts significantly this season as each game triggers exciting matchups that hit home for fans and players alike.
Final Thoughts
This season is shaping up to be one of the most thrilling in recent memory, with local schools portraying admirable sportsmanship and inspiring camaraderie. For further updates on local sports happenings, parents, businesses, and basketball enthusiasts can stay informed through local media outlets. It’s crucial for this vibrant community to support the next generation of athletes and celebrate their achievements.
Stay tuned to local news channels and platforms for exciting coverage, scores, and highlights from every game as these teams battle it out! Are you following the rankings? Which team are you cheering for this season?
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