OHSAA Hoops: Columbus Academy & Hartley Eye 2025 State Titles
As winter gives way to spring, the anticipation for the Ohio High School Athletic Association (OHSAA) boys basketball tournament reaches a fever pitch across the state. For Central Ohio, the 2025 postseason carries a unique buzz, especially for two programs with their sights firmly set on lifting a state championship title: Columbus Academy and Bishop Hartley. Both teams have demonstrated exceptional prowess throughout their respective regular seasons and are now gearing up for what they hope will be a historic run to Dayton.
Last year’s tournament saw an incredible showing from Central Ohio, with four teams reaching the state tournament and two — Olentangy Orange and Reynoldsburg — battling it out in the Division I final. Westerville North claimed the Division II championship, and Columbus Academy made a memorable run to the Division V runner-up spot. This rich history sets the stage for new narratives to be written, and Columbus Academy and Hartley are primed to author compelling chapters in their pursuit of state championship info glory.
Columbus Academy's Relentless Pursuit of the Division V Crown
For the Columbus Academy Vikings, the 2025 campaign is less about reaching the state final and more about taking that crucial final step. After a heartbreaking 53-49 loss to Cleveland Heights Lutheran East in last season's Division V state championship game, the Vikings return with a renewed sense of purpose and a hunger for redemption. Despite bringing back just two starters, their dominant performance this season (18-4 overall, 13-1 in the Central Buckeye League) has cemented their status as the top seed and a formidable contender.
At the heart of Academy's success is senior guard Jason Singleton, a Harvard commit whose all-around game makes him one of the state's most impactful players. Averaging an impressive 21.3 points, 6.1 rebounds, 4.3 assists, and 3.9 steals, Singleton's leadership and skill are invaluable. Joining him as a returning starter is senior forward Gabe Davis-Ray, a Northwestern football signee whose athleticism and physicality provide a crucial presence in the paint and on the boards. These two veterans anchor a team that has learned valuable lessons from its prior postseason experience.
The supporting cast has stepped up admirably, with senior guards Will Bundy and Charlie Rubey, and sophomore forward Mitch Zumberge rounding out the starting five. Key reserves like senior forward Brian Ankamah and junior forward Charlie Pizzotti provide depth and energy off the bench. Their collective effort led Academy to its second consecutive CBL title, finishing a game ahead of Ready, who holds the No. 3 seed and could be a challenging opponent in a district final matchup. The Vikings' ability to integrate new starters while maintaining an elite level of play speaks volumes about their coaching staff and team chemistry. To overcome the sting of last year's runner-up finish, a team needs not only talent but also unwavering mental fortitude and the belief that this year is their year. It’s about leveraging past experience to refine strategies, stay composed under pressure, and execute in clutch moments.
Hartley Hawks Soar Towards a Division III Championship
In Division III, the Bishop Hartley Hawks have been the area's premier team all season, securing the top seed in their district tournament. Despite a tough regular-season loss to competitive league rival Watterson, the Hawks (15-4 overall, 5-1 in the ultracompetitive Central Catholic League) find themselves in a familiar and strong position. Their goal is clear: get past the regional final, a hurdle they fell short of last season when they lost to eventual state champion Louisville.
Hartley's strength lies in its guard-heavy, senior-laden lineup, a testament to years of development and cohesion. Kent State signee Jakhi Calloway leads the charge, showcasing the skills and composure required for deep postseason runs. He is complemented by fellow seniors Quinton Easler, Christian King, Caleb O’Neil, and Rowan Smith, who bring a wealth of experience and leadership to the court. This seasoned core has navigated a demanding statewide schedule, facing several Division I and II powers, which has undoubtedly toughened them for the rigors of the postseason. Their recent 38-34 victory over Watterson on Feb. 20 secured their third straight CCL title, an impressive achievement that underscores their consistency and dominance.
The Hawks' journey through a formidable schedule is a strategic advantage. Playing tougher opponents throughout the regular season prepares a team for the intensity and pressure of the state tournament. It forces players to elevate their game, identify weaknesses, and adapt quickly, all crucial elements for success in high-stakes elimination games. Overcoming the past hurdle of a regional final loss requires not just talent, but also intense focus, improved execution in critical situations, and the collective will to push beyond previous limits.
Navigating the OHSAA Tournament Landscape
The OHSAA tournament, commencing on February 23rd, is an annual spectacle where hundreds of teams across the state vie for the opportunity to etch their names into history. Each game presents a new challenge, a chance to write a new story, and the stakes couldn't be higher. For teams like Columbus Academy and Hartley, every possession, every rebound, and every free throw takes on immense significance.
While the spotlight shines brightly on Academy and Hartley, other Central Ohio teams are also making their presence felt. Grandview Heights, seeded first in Division VI, is another team to watch. The Bobcats (16-5) are hungry for their first district title in five years, led by senior guard/wing Boston Pearson (16.4 points) and sophomore wing Duncan Peters (16.3 points). Their competitive run in the loaded CBL, finishing behind Academy and 2025 regional runner-up Ready, shows their capabilities. Should they win their district, a formidable matchup with East District No. 1 seed Berlin Hiland could await them in the regional semifinal. For a deeper dive into other potential contenders, check out Central Ohio's 2025 OHSAA Boys Basketball State Championship Outlook.
A successful postseason run often hinges on several key factors: consistent defense, clutch free-throw shooting, effective timeout management, and the ability to minimize turnovers. Teams that can maintain composure in hostile environments and execute their game plan under intense pressure are often the ones that advance the furthest. Coaches play a crucial role, not just in strategy but in ensuring all administrative details are handled, from accurate player rosters to understanding deadlines for various tournament phases. The OHSAA provides comprehensive state championship info for all its events, guiding coaches through every step.
Beyond the Court: The Comprehensive Nature of OHSAA State Championship Info
While basketball commands attention this season, the OHSAA's commitment to athletic excellence spans numerous sports throughout the year. The meticulous planning required for a successful state championship event is extensive, whether it's for basketball, track and field, or gymnastics. For instance, detailed Ohio Gymnastics State Championships 2026: Dates, Levels, Fees are already laid out, illustrating the proactive approach the OHSAA takes to inform participants. This includes specific declaration dates, entry fee deadlines, and competition schedules, ensuring all athletes, coaches, and parents have ample time to prepare. Similarly, for other championships like track and field, coaches receive specific instructions and deadlines for updating relay names and requesting spelling corrections to ensure all participants are accurately represented. This level of detail in providing comprehensive state championship info is a hallmark of the OHSAA's organizational prowess, facilitating fair and well-managed competitions across the board.
This dedication extends to ensuring all participants are well-informed, from the earliest stages of registration to the final moments of competition. It’s a testament to the effort behind creating a fair and memorable experience for thousands of student-athletes across Ohio.
Conclusion
The 2025 OHSAA boys basketball tournament promises to be an exhilarating journey filled with intense competition and unforgettable moments. For Columbus Academy and Bishop Hartley, the dream of a state championship is tangible, fueled by strong seasons, exceptional talent, and the valuable lessons learned from past postseasons. Their paths to Dayton will be challenging, demanding peak performance and unwavering determination from every player and coach.
As these Central Ohio powerhouses embark on their respective quests, they embody the spirit of high school athletics: the pursuit of excellence, the camaraderie of teamwork, and the enduring dream of reaching the pinnacle of their sport. Whether they hoist the trophy or not, their pursuit of state championship info and glory will undoubtedly inspire their communities and leave a lasting legacy for future generations of athletes.