Episode Show Notes: Explaining the 2026 Rankings
Host Adam Peek dives deep into his "stupid idea" to create a new, interactive 2026 player rankings website for Utah high school basketball. He breaks down the why, the how, and what it all means for the players.
Why Build a New Ranking System?
A Learning Project: The website was built as a personal project to practice a new development style ("vibe coding").
Action Over Complaint: After seeing community feedback about existing rankings, Adam decided to build a new resource rather than just critique others. He gives a shout-out to Prep Hoops, acknowledging their value to the Utah basketball scene.
Data-Driven Approach: The goal was to compile objective data from sources like MaxPreps, Deseret News, and expert feedback to create a comprehensive and interactive tool for players, fans, and coaches.
Methodology: The Art & Science of Rankings
Adam's rankings are built on a philosophy that balances objective data with informed, subjective analysis.
What Carries Weight:
Verifiable College Offers: An offer from a college coach is a strong indicator of next-level talent.
All-State Honors: Official recognition from coaches across the state.
Performance in Big Moments: Players who step up in major events, like the state tournament.
Expert Feedback: Input was gathered from college coaches, club directors, and even a national scout.
What Was De-emphasized:
Unverifiable AAU Stats: Self-reported or parent-reported stats were not used as a primary metric.
Player Spotlights & Mentions
Throughout the episode, Adam references numerous players to illustrate his points.
The Mamba Invitational Stars: A huge accomplishment for Utah basketball, with three Utah Prospects players featured in the championship game:
Junior County (Wasatch Academy)
Dean Rueckert (Timpview)
Ikenna Alozie (Dream City Christian, AZ)
Top of the Rankings Discussion:
Gavin Lowe (Olympus): The reigning State Player of the Year is ranked #2 in the state, sparking a discussion on the subjective nature of ranking top talent.
Other elite players mentioned at the top include Anthony Felesi, Katrelle Harmon, Jayden Johnson, and Gabe Sularaski
Players Making Moves:
Deng Deng (Juan Diego): Moved "way up" the list after a phenomenal summer with Team Utah that resulted in numerous college offers.
Brigham Kemp (Hurricane): Described as a "walking bucket" whose talent was evident from live viewings.
Jason Hernandez (Green River): The first player to reach out for feedback; highlighted for his consistent scoring.
The Drake Allen Story - A Lesson for All Players:
Drake Allen, a high-major Division I starter at Utah State, did not start on his JV team as a junior or his varsity team as a senior. He wouldn't have been on any ranking lists. His journey is the ultimate example that rankings do not define your future—your work ethic does.
Other Players Mentioned:
JT Turley (Davis)
Tyler Mortensen (Corner Canyon)
Mason Ford (Timpview)
Caden Jackson (Olympus)
Isaiah Reiser (Copper Hills)
Parker Snedaker (Murray)
Isaiah Beh (Murray)
Graydin Anderson (Westlake)
A Message to the Players
Your rank is just a number. Use it for one of two things:
Encouragement: If you're on the list of 175 players, you are in the top 20-25% of your class in the state. Be proud of that.
Motivation: If you think your rank is too low, go prove it wrong. Let it fuel you to work harder in the gym, in the weight room, and on your film study.
Check It Out!
Website: rankings.utahbasketball.net
Features: Interactive grid and list views, searchable database, and filters for college offers, commitment status, position, and classification.
(Note: An email and password are required to log in for security purposes.)
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