San Antonio, January 18, 2026
The San Antonio high school basketball scene is dominated by three standout teams: Brennan, Judson, and Steele. These schools exemplify skill, teamwork, and community pride, shaping student-athletes into leaders on and off the court. Each team’s commitment to excellence and their impressive season records highlight the competitive spirit of Texas high school sports. As they approach the postseason, Brennan leads District 28-6A, while Judson and Steele continue to exhibit strong performances, creating an engaging atmosphere for fans and aspiring players alike.
San Antonio
San Antonio’s Hoops Hierarchy: Brennan, Judson, Steele Lead the Charge
As the high school basketball season charges past its halfway point, the San Antonio area’s hardwood landscape is clearly defined by a trio of dominant programs: Brennan, Judson, and Steele. These teams exemplify the dedication, discipline, and competitive spirit that elevate high school athletics, shaping young athletes into leaders and fostering a vibrant community spirit across Houston and beyond.
High school sports in Texas are more than just games; they are foundational pillars for personal growth and community pride. Through the rigorous demands of practice, the camaraderie of teamwork, and the lessons learned in victory and defeat, young men develop character, resilience, and a strong sense of personal responsibility. The success of programs like Brennan, Judson, and Steele not only brings joy to their respective communities but also showcases the positive impact that structured competition has on the lives of student-athletes.
The current basketball rankings reflect months of hard work and strategic play, illustrating which teams have truly earned their place at the top. With district play intensifying, every dribble, pass, and shot holds significant weight, building toward the ultimate challenge of the postseason. This critical juncture demands peak performance and unwavering commitment, qualities that these leading teams consistently demonstrate.
Brennan Bears: Sustained Excellence at the Summit
The Brennan Bears have firmly established themselves at the pinnacle of San Antonio high school basketball, consistently demonstrating a powerful blend of defensive tenacity and efficient offensive execution. In the 2025-26 season, Brennan holds a commanding 20-3 overall record, including an undefeated 8-0 mark in district play, positioning them at the top of District 28-6A. Their impressive run includes a decisive 85-44 victory over Taft High School on January 13, 2026.
Brennan’s program has a history of deep playoff runs, notably reaching the UIL Class 6A Regional title game in 2023, which secured their first state tournament appearance since 2013, and ultimately advancing to the state semifinals that year. While adapting to the graduation of key talents like Kingston Flemings, a University of Houston signee, and Camden Cowgill, the Bears continue to thrive. Their current roster boasts formidable players such as senior guard/forward Donovan Criss, who leads the team with an average of 15.6 points per game, and senior forward/guard Isaiah Ward, contributing 12.3 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. Senior center/forward Delano Tarpley is a dominant presence in the paint, averaging 8.4 rebounds per game and shooting an impressive 67% from the field. Junior point guard Jacob Padilla facilitates the offense and disrupts opponents with 3.4 assists and 2.5 steals per game, respectively. The team’s suffocating defense and balanced scoring attack are hallmarks of their success, a testament to strict discipline and collective effort.
Judson Rockets: Powering Through District Challenges
The Judson Rockets have been on a remarkable surge, navigating the demanding district schedule with impressive consistency. The team has secured victory in 13 of their last 14 games, elevating their season record to an outstanding 22-5. This strong performance places them firmly within the top tier of Texas basketball programs, with MaxPreps ranking them 28th statewide. The Rockets have demonstrated their offensive prowess during this run, averaging 65.1 points over their recent stretch of victories.
A pivotal moment in their district campaign came on January 9, 2026, when Judson secured a significant 84-65 victory against rival Steele High School, taking control of District 29-6A. Further solidifying their standing, the Rockets followed this with an 85-49 win over San Marcos High School on January 13, 2026, and a 71-43 victory against Canyon High School on January 16, 2026. Key returning players who have been instrumental in Judson’s success include Jay’maree Bowens, Jaylen Crittendon, and Gerald O’Neal. These athletes embody the teamwork and resilience required to excel at this level, demonstrating that focused effort and mutual support are essential for overcoming challenges and achieving goals.
Steele Knights: A Resurgent Force
The Steele Knights have undergone a significant resurgence, re-establishing themselves as a formidable contender in San Antonio high school basketball. Following a remarkable 2024-25 season where they achieved over 30 wins for the first time since the 2018-19 season and made their first UIL Final Four appearance since 2016, expectations for the Knights remain high. Currently, Steele holds an overall record of 12-3, showcasing their consistent performance.
Recent victories for Steele include a dominant 83-30 win against San Marcos High School on January 16, 2026, and a solid 64-40 triumph over Davenport High School on January 13, 2026. Despite a tough 65-84 loss to district rival Judson High School on January 9, 2026, the Knights remain a potent force. The team’s strength lies in its core group of returning players, including junior wing Logan Gonzalez, who averages 13.5 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, and junior guard Maurice Eddie, contributing 14.5 points and 4.2 rebounds per game. The addition of senior Jamail Garland further bolsters their lineup. Steele’s ability to maintain high performance levels, even after challenging matchups, reflects their disciplined approach and commitment to continuous improvement.
The Critical Juncture: Impact and Opportunity
As San Antonio’s high school basketball season progresses, the performances of Brennan, Judson, and Steele underscore the deep talent pool and fierce competition in Texas prep sports. These top-ranked teams are not just playing for wins; they are demonstrating the values of hard work, sportsmanship, and personal growth that resonate throughout the community. Their success galvanizes school pride and offers excellent opportunities for local sponsorships to connect with a passionate and engaged audience. The dedication of student-athletes, coaches, and supporting staff creates a vibrant atmosphere that strengthens community identity and inspires the next generation.
The ongoing district play is a critical juncture, where every game contributes to a team’s legacy and future opportunities. The commitment shown by these young athletes, both on and off the court, lays the groundwork for future success, whether in higher education or professional careers. This period is a true test of leadership and teamwork, showcasing how challenges are met with collective effort and individual responsibility.
Looking Ahead: Support Local Hoops
The dedication and talent displayed by teams like Brennan, Judson, and Steele make San Antonio high school basketball a thrilling spectacle. These programs, through their emphasis on discipline and teamwork, are cultivating not just exceptional athletes but also future leaders. Their journeys are compelling narratives of ambition and achievement, worthy of every fan’s attention. The competitive spirit evident in every game reflects the character built through countless hours of practice and unwavering commitment.
We encourage all Houston and San Antonio TX high school basketball enthusiasts to actively support their local teams. Attending games is a powerful way to boost morale, demonstrate community pride, and witness firsthand the inspiring performances of these dedicated young athletes. Stay tuned to HEREHouston.com for comprehensive coverage of San Antonio prep basketball, including detailed game recaps, player spotlights, and ongoing analysis as these teams vie for state championship glory. Your engagement fuels the passion and provides invaluable encouragement for these developing stars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which San Antonio high schools are currently leading the basketball rankings?
Brennan, Judson, and Steele high schools are currently leading the basketball rankings in the San Antonio area.
What is Brennan High School’s current record?
Brennan High School has an overall record of 20-3 and a district record of 8-0, leading District 28-6A.
How has Judson High School been performing recently?
Judson High School has secured victory in 13 of their last 14 games, bringing their season record to 22-5.
What was the score of the recent game between Judson and Steele High Schools?
Judson High School secured an 84-65 victory against Steele High School on January 9, 2026.
Who are some key players for Brennan High School?
Key players for Brennan High School include senior guard/forward Donovan Criss, senior forward/guard Isaiah Ward, senior center/forward Delano Tarpley, and junior point guard Jacob Padilla.
What is Steele High School’s recent performance?
Steele High School holds an overall record of 12-3 and recently secured an 83-30 win against San Marcos High School on January 16, 2026, and a 64-40 triumph over Davenport High School on January 13, 2026.
Key Features of San Antonio’s Hoops Hierarchy
| Team | Current Overall Record | Current District Record | Key Player Spotlight | Recent Notable Performance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Brennan Bears | 20-3 | 8-0 (1st in District 28-6A) | Donovan Criss (15.6 P/G), Isaiah Ward (12.3 P/G, 5.2 Reb/G), Delano Tarpley (8.4 Reb/G, 67% FG) | Won 85-44 vs. Taft High School (Jan 13, 2026) |
| Judson Rockets | 22-5 | Leading District 29-6A | Jay’maree Bowens, Jaylen Crittendon, Gerald O’Neal | Won 84-65 vs. Steele High School (Jan 9, 2026) |
| Steele Knights | 12-3 | N/A (District play ongoing) | Logan Gonzalez (13.5 P/G, 6.5 Reb/G), Maurice Eddie (14.5 P/G, 4.2 Reb/G) | Won 83-30 vs. San Marcos High School (Jan 16, 2026) |
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Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
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