Polk Power Rankings: Top Programs Check-In

Andrew Johnson January 15, 2026 @ 11:24 AM

1. Bartow (17-1)   It feels like a throwback year for Bartow as the Yellow Jackets sit firmly on top of Polk County. Despite offseason turnover, the standard hasn't slipped — they simply reloaded. Bartow owns just one loss with quality wins, including a statement victory over The Villages Charter. The roster is loaded with young talent, headlined by 2028 [player_tooltip player_id='2804162' first='Derwyn' last='Link'], one of the top players in his class statewide. 2026 Ja'kylen Crossley continues to emerge as a reliable scoring guard, while 2028 [player_tooltip player_id='2527379' first='James' last='Ratteree'] has been one of the more impressive young guards seen this season. Add in steady production from Matthew Williams and the continued rise of Syrus Sinfort, and Bartow looks built to finish strong and make noise late.   2. Victory Christian (12-5)   The standard remains high at Victory Christian under Coach Steve Fitzgerald. This group blends experience, shooting, and size, making them dangerous come postseason play. [player_tooltip player_id='2810621' first='Christian' last='Fuller'] (16.3 PPG) has added scoring punch to the backcourt, while 2026 sharpshooter [player_tooltip player_id='1633075' first='Tucker' last='Fox'] has been on a heater, knocking down 23 threes over a three-game stretch. The return of 6-8 big man [player_tooltip player_id='2299674' first='Thok' last='Gol'] (2026) has stabilized the interior, and senior [player_tooltip player_id='2800185' first='MJ' last='McCalla'] (12.1 PPG) is playing his best basketball. With international prospect [player_tooltip player_id='2871920' first='Arik' last='Arik'] (2028) and quality depth, VCA is built for another deep run.   3. Santa Fe Catholic (13-5)   Consistency defines Santa Fe Catholic under longtime head coach Mike Blicher. The Hawks combine veteran leadership with emerging youth, creating a disciplined and tough group. 2026 guard [player_tooltip player_id='2884444' first='Toby' last='Lane'] sets the tone with his gritty, unselfish play, while 2027 [player_tooltip player_id='2827196' first='Shannon' last='McArthur'] continues to trend upward as a fast-rising name. Urijah Newirk (10.2 PPG) and [player_tooltip player_id='3236426' first='Charlie' last='Heddon'] provide reliable scoring, and wins over Evans and Discovery highlight their ability to compete with anyone. This is a team no one wants to see in the playoffs.   4. Ridge Community (13-2)   Ridge's success this season reflects the work put in during the offseason under head coach Don Skipper. With just two losses through 15 games, the Bolts are proving they belong in the county conversation. Senior Curtis Walton leads the way at 16.8 PPG and 5.1 rebounds, setting the tone on both ends. Notable wins over East Ridge and Brook DeBartolo Collegiate, plus a narrow two-point loss to Lakeland, show Ridge can compete at a high level. Zach Joseph (11.5 PPG) and [player_tooltip player_id='2201942' first='Amare' last='Walker'] (7.7 PPG) round out a balanced rotation.   5. Discovery (13-5)   Discovery continues to climb in Florida's 3A rankings and remains a tough out under District 6 play. The Spartans consistently develop local talent and this group is no exception. Led by electric scorer [player_tooltip player_id='2803761' first='Turral' last='Berry'] (20.1 PPG), Discovery thrives in transition and attacks defenses relentlessly. Berry's quick first step makes him difficult to contain, while Jaucoby Torrence (11.4 PPG), Darrick Downing (10.3 PPG, 5.6 RPG), and Omari Vega (8.9 PPG, 3.9 APG, 2.1 SPG) provide balance. Wins over Auburndale, Lake Wales, and McKeel, along with a close loss to Santa Fe, highlight their upside moving forward.

1. Bartow (17-1)