DCIAA Conference Preview

<!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading">2025-26 DCIAA Basketball Preview</h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The DCIAA basketball landscape is set for another competitive season, with several teams looking to make their mark and challenge for city honors. Theodore Roosevelt returns a solid core and is expected to be among the top contenders, leveraging their trademark defensive intensity and athleticism. Cardozo, known for their fast-paced style, features a mix of experienced seniors and promising underclassmen eager to step up and fill key roles.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Jackson Reed brings back a group of skilled guards who can score in bunches, and their up-tempo offense will keep opponents on their heels. Calvin Coolidge, traditionally a tough competitor, will rely on a disciplined approach and a balanced inside-out attack to remain in the playoff hunt. McKinley Tech is aiming to build on last season's progress, with a focus on player development and improved team chemistry.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The newly established MacArthur program is quickly gaining attention, thanks to a talented roster and strong coaching. With a blend of returning stars and emerging talent, DCIAA is poised for a season filled with close contests, standout performances, and intense rivalries. Fans can look forward to high-level basketball as these teams battle for supremacy in one of the city's most storied leagues.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Theodore Roosevelt</strong> – The Rough Riders enter the preseason as a leading contender for the DCIAA title and are poised to compete strongly for the DCSAA championship as well. Head coach Rob Nickens returns a solid core from last season's 22-9 team.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Coach Nickens leads one of the deepest teams in the city, highlighted by a trio of talented perimeter players. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2682525' first='Sean' last='Hall']</strong> pictured (6-4, Sr.) is a versatile forward whose comprehensive skill set will be essential to Roosevelt's pursuit of the DCIAA and DCSAA title this year. <strong>Gabriel Hudgens</strong> (6-1, Jr.) contributes as a reliable shooting combo guard, while his younger brother, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2524398' first='Elijah' last='Hall']</strong> (6-5, So.), is an adept lead guard recognized as one of the top prospects in the Middle Atlantic region and potentially on the national stage with continued development.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>In the frontcourt, <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2623274' first='Zion' last='Copeland']</strong> (6-7, Jr.) provides a dynamic presence, demonstrating efficient movement and scoring ability when called upon. Copeland's performance will be critical in marquee city matchups as well as against challenging non-conference opponents.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Coach Nickens also has several upperclassmen and underclassmen to monitor closely, including seniors <strong>Lyndel Watkins</strong> (6-3) and <strong>Gabriel Williams</strong> (5-10). Underclassmen to watch are <strong>Amos Davis</strong> (6-5, So.), an intriguing left-handed wing, and <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='3072056' first='Kingston' last='Ladson']</strong> (6-4, Fr.), an active, long-limbed wing. The Rough Riders are expected to maintain their aggressive “32 minutes of hell” approach throughout the season in there attempted to win the DCIAA and DCSAA championship this year.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Cardozo</strong> – The Clerks, last year's defending DCIAA champions, concluded the season with an impressive 25-5 record and secured the 20th spot in the final Washington Post rankings last year. Under the leadership of Coach Omar Fox, the program has undergone a successful rebuilding process. The team is expected to remain highly competitive this season, led by a quick and athletic roster featuring <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2705135' first='Jordan' last='Fox']</strong> (6-1, Jr.), a dynamic lead guard who makes significant contributions both on and off the ball. <strong>Troy Green</strong> (6-2, Sr.) serves as a talented two-way guard adept at orchestrating the offense and scoring efficiently.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>The Clerks also boast considerable depth, relying on a strong group of underclassmen for continued success. Notable contributors include <strong>Rashaad Jackson</strong> (5-10, Jr.), <strong>Kayden Kinzer-Parker</strong> (6-4, So.), a promising young prospect, and <strong>Kashun Fauntroy</strong> (6-4, So.), a forward known for his work ethic. <strong>Julien Kouruma</strong> (6-1, Jr.) adds strength and aggressiveness on both ends of the floor. A potentially pivotal factor for the team's performance this season may be the play of <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2886448' first='Ife' last='Obayande']</strong> (6-8, Jr.).</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Jackson Reed</strong> – First-year head coach Bill Bourgouin takes over one of the leading programs in the DVM area. The team, which finished as DCSAA runners-up, posted a 24-8 overall record and a 14-1 league record last season. With a roster featuring skilled guards and wings, combined with valuable experience, Jackson Reed is well-positioned to compete in the highly competitive DCIAA conference. Transfer guard <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2327613' first='Averi' last='Knight']</strong> (6-0, Jr.) is expected to make a significant impact, while senior shooting guard <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2892679' first='Dawit' last='Abraham']</strong> (6-4) brings both experience and perimeter accuracy. Senior <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2494000' first='Lucas' last='Spencer']</strong> (6-3) will contribute to reliable play from the outside. Sophomore <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2876205' first='James' last='Walker']</strong> (6-2) is anticipated to add three-point shooting off the bench. The team will be without senior center <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2412775' first='Kaylin' last='Dunbar']</strong> (6-10), who suffered a knee injury this past year. Juniors <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2623334' first='Lane' last='Mahan']</strong> (6-4) and sophomore <strong>Amir Brutley</strong> (5-9) are projected to take on key roles as Jackson Reed pursues the DCIAA and DCSAA title this season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Calvin Coolidge</strong> – The Colts (19-8 overall / 11-4 league play) experienced significant changes this year due to transfers, notably losing Makiah Gray (6-0, Jr.)—a top guard who averaged over 18 points per game last season—to Bethel Academy. Head Coach Derrick Washington aims to regroup with the leadership of talented guard <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2353538' first='Eric' last='Turner']</strong> (6-3, Sr.), who has committed to Hampton University. Turner is regarded as one of the premier players in the DCIAA, known for his versatility and impactful presence on the court. Also contributing are <strong>Derrick Washington, Jr.</strong> (5-11, So.), an exceptionally quick ball handler and penetrator; <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2353603' first='Jabreem' last='Harvey']</strong> (6-6, Sr.), a mobile and effective baseline defender and scorer; <strong>Andre Tcheuffa</strong> (6-6, Jr.), a wiry rebounder and shot blocker; and <strong>Maurice Hooks</strong> (6-4/235, So.), who provides a strong inside presence.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>McKinley Tech</strong> – Under Coach Ali Foster's leadership, the team returns most of its roster after achieving an 18-7 record and a 10-5 finish in league competition. The Trainers are led by Division I prospect <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2623269' first='Marcus' last='Dunbar']</strong> (6-4, Jr.), a skilled guard-forward recognized for his scoring abilities, academic excellence, and strong character. Key contributors include <strong>Ralph Guthrie</strong> (5-10, Jr.), an agile ball handler; <strong>Jeremiah Bigelow</strong> (6-2, Jr.), a dynamic wing proficient in transition play; and <strong>Donte Bond</strong> (6-5, So.), whose presence inside enhances rebounding and athleticism.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Charter Schools</strong></p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:heading --> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>2025-26 Charter School Basketball Preview</strong></h2> <!-- /wp:heading --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>Charter schools like Friendship Tech Prep and KIPP DC Legacy College Prep are not to be overlooked, as each brings energy and a commitment to player development that should translate into competitive games. Digital Pioneers, with their emphasis on fundamentals and team defense, round out a deep field that promises excitement throughout the season.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Friendship Tech Prep</strong> – Coach Duane Shackleford continue to have one of the top Charter Schools in the DC area. Finished the season with a 23-8 overall record last year sending three seniors on to college last year. This year team will be lead by his nephew <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='1782661' first='Malik' last='Shackleford']</strong> (6-4, Sr.) point guard and legit division 1 prospect. Due to an ankle injury that was suffered this summer Malik recruiting fell off. But look for that to pick up this season. Because this young is one of the better guards in the DVM market. He possesses an excellent feel for the game and he's the ultimate leader that plays the game the right way. The Titans will be dependent on underclassmen this year. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='3035464' first='Khadir' last='Johnson']</strong> (6-4, So.) athletic wing who plays has been impressive this fall. <strong>Corey Sutton</strong> (6-4, So.) another athletic wing the shows two-way ability. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='3072045' first='Kam' last='Milam']</strong> (6-3, Fr.) good looking big young guard. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2500743' first='Cayden' last='Morrison']</strong> (6-2, So.) athletic scoring wing that gets down hill in a hurry. Look for a couple bigs <strong>D'Andre Harkins</strong> (6-7, Sr.) and <strong>Jason Williams</strong>, Jr. (6-6. So.) a young big that will count on for his size and presence down low. Look for the Friendship to be a favorite in the PCSAA-AA Divison.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>KIPP DC Legacy College Prep</strong> - Coach Jimmie Jenkins have build one of the better Charter Schools basketball programs in the area. The Bulldogs returns from 23-5 record one of the top guards tandems in the area in <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2760810' first='Jeremiah' last='Steele']</strong> (6-1, Sr.) long smooth point guard who really plays the game with tremendous poise. <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2722713' first='Marlon' last='Calhoun']</strong> (6-3, Sr.) solid all around two-guards who can really score the ball and run the show if needed. Both are legit college level prospects. Rounding out the The Bulldogs team is a talented forward in <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2524445' first='Kaleb' last='Clark']</strong> (6-6, So.) a strong baseline scorer and rebounder. Clark possesses the body of an upperclassmen. <strong>Kristian Iracks</strong> (6-8, Jr.) is a developing big that anchor the interior presence for the Bulldogs and be the team to beat in the tough PCSAA-A Division. &nbsp;</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p><strong>Digital Pioneers</strong> – Under Coach Toto Johnson, the Pythons are expected to be strong rivals against KIPP DC Legacy in the PCSAA-AA conference. Last season, they finished with a solid 18-9 record. This year, they gain size with transfer <strong>[player_tooltip player_id='2623275' first='Anton' last='Arrington']</strong> (6-8/250, Jr.) from Theodore Roosevelt; expect him to dominate near the basket. <strong>Jhalil Route</strong> (6-5, Sr.) will also play a key role as an energetic wing, especially effective in transitions and mid-range scoring. At point guard, <strong>Jeremy Capel</strong> (6-1, Jr.) will orchestrate the team for Coach Johnson. <strong>Jason Williams</strong> (6-5, Jr.), a versatile G/F wing, excels at playing in open space and making contributions on both offense and defense. <strong>Ethan-Mekhi Bennings</strong> (6-6, Jr.) adds even more hustle and energy as another wing player. Games against KIPP DC Legacy should be especially exciting this season, with both teams competing for the Small division DCSAA City Championships held at George Washington University at season end.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->