The latest Globe Top 20 boys’ basketball poll showcases significant changes within the rankings as the top two teams prepare to face off in the MVC Cup final. On Friday, Central Catholic will host Andover, who narrowly edged out Central Catholic in their initial matchup, winning 60-57 on December 19, 2025. This highly anticipated rematch is set to capture the attention of basketball fans as both teams vie for the championship title.
Bridgewater-Raynham, currently ranked third, faces a critical week ahead. They are scheduled to compete against Brockton, Catholic Memorial, and Attleboro in the annual Blue Bombardiers Classic. This series of games could significantly impact their standing in the poll as they aim to solidify their position among the top contenders.
St. Mary’s, once holding the second spot, has encountered a challenging week, dropping games to both Salem and Archbishop Williams. They will seek redemption when they take on the eighth-ranked team, Wareham, in a crucial match on Wednesday. The outcome of this game could further influence the rankings, as St. Mary’s attempts to bounce back from recent setbacks.
Despite their recent victory over St. Mary’s, Salem faced a setback of their own. Following their significant win, they lost to Swampscott, marking a tumultuous week for the team. Meanwhile, Cambridge saw their impressive eleven-game winning streak come to an end with a last-second loss to Bedford, highlighting the unpredictability of the current basketball season.
Mansfield delivered a statement victory with a commanding performance against Bishop Feehan on Sunday, which propelled them up the rankings. Their ability to dominate in that matchup emphasizes their potential as a serious contender moving forward. Additionally, Needham continues to demonstrate consistent performance in the Bay State Conference, maintaining their position as a key player in the rankings.
After a strong stretch of performances, Holland (Burke) has successfully returned to the poll, showcasing their resilience and ability to compete at a high level.
The Globe’s rankings, which reflect scores reported up until February 12, 2026, are determined by the Globe sports staff. The dynamic nature of this season’s competition ensures that fans can expect more thrilling matchups as teams strive to improve their standings.
For further updates and insights, Nate Weitzer can be reached at [email protected], and you can follow him on X @nweitzer7.
