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Indiana High School Basketball Season Heats Up

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  Published in Media and Entertainment on Sunday, February 1st 2026 at 19:49 GMT by The Indianapolis Star
      Locales: Indiana, UNITED STATES

Monday, February 2nd, 2026 - The Indiana high school basketball season is heating up, and the latest results from Saturday night's games offer a compelling snapshot of a state deeply invested in its winter tradition. While the IHSAA Super 25 rankings provide a useful metric, a closer look reveals a landscape far more nuanced than simple wins and losses. This isn't just about who's currently ranked; it's about momentum, vulnerabilities, and the emerging contenders poised to make a serious run at a state championship.

The Elite Still Stand Tall - For Now

At the very top, Bloomington North continues to justify its #1 ranking. Their decisive victory over Columbus North wasn't just a win; it was a statement. The Highlanders' defensive prowess remains the cornerstone of their success, consistently shutting down opposing offenses. However, maintaining that level of intensity throughout the grueling tournament schedule will be the key to their ultimate fate.

Carmel, clinging to the #2 spot, faced a tougher test against Fishers, narrowly escaping with a victory. While resilience is admirable, the persistent turnover issues are a flashing red light. In the high-stakes environment of the tournament, unforced errors can be fatal, even against lesser competition. Coach Miller will undoubtedly be drilling ball security in practice this week.

Franklin's dominant performance against Mooresville confirms what many have suspected: this team boasts an offensive juggernaut. If their shooters remain hot and their supporting players continue to contribute, Franklin is a legitimate threat to go all the way. Their consistency, however, will be tested against tougher defensive squads.

Upsets and Wake-Up Calls

The biggest shock of the weekend was undoubtedly Crown Point's upset loss to Valparaiso. Ranked #4, the Bulldogs were expected to cruise past their opponents. This loss serves as a stark reminder that in Indiana high school basketball, no team is invincible. It's a wake-up call for Crown Point, forcing them to re-evaluate their strategy and address any weaknesses before the tournament begins. Will they respond with renewed focus, or will this loss linger and derail their championship aspirations?

Emerging Forces and Areas for Concern

Beyond the top contenders, several teams are making their case as potential dark horses. Warren Central's powerful inside game, showcased in their win against Pike, is proving a nightmare for opponents. Their ability to control the paint could be a major factor in the tournament. Similarly, Evansville Central appears to be peaking at the right time, securing comfortable victories and building confidence. La Lumiere, consistently a powerhouse, continues to impress with its depth and balanced attack.

However, not all is rosy for the Super 25 teams. Cathedral's struggles against Lawrence North highlight a concerning lack of consistency. The Irish have the talent, but they need to find a way to play with greater urgency and focus. Homestead's impressive shooting performance against Fort Wayne Northrop is encouraging, but they'll need more than just perimeter prowess to compete with the state's elite. Westfield's continued improvement is noteworthy, showing promise for the future, but they still face an uphill battle against established powerhouses.

Looking Ahead: Tournament Implications

With the regular season winding down, the focus is rapidly shifting to the IHSAA state tournament. Sectionals begin in just a few weeks, and every game will be a battle for survival. The lessons learned from Saturday night's games will be crucial. Coaches will analyze film, identify weaknesses, and fine-tune their strategies. Players will push themselves to their limits, striving for peak performance.

The margin for error is shrinking with each passing game. A single turnover, a missed shot, or a defensive lapse can be the difference between victory and defeat. The pressure is immense, but that's what makes Indiana high school basketball so special. It's a crucible where young athletes are forged, and memories are made. The next week promises even more thrilling action and pivotal matchups as teams across the state jockey for position and prepare for the ultimate test. The tournament is almost here, and Indiana is ready for March Madness - a little early this year!