D2 Big School Boys Basketball Rankings (1/6/25)
By: Brad Loff | Sportzwire | January 6, 2025
Swerve's D2 Big School Boys Basketball Rankings Powered by NEPA Elite (1/6/25): Valley View Stands Tall, a Wide-Open Race Behind Them
The latest NEPA Elite D2 Big School Boys Basketball Rankings highlight just how competitive this season has become. While Valley View continues to assert itself as the clear No. 1 team, the rest of the top 10 is tightly packed, with many teams capable of pulling off upsets on any given night. Scranton holds steady at No. 2 after another strong week, while Dallas and Crestwood rise in the rankings. Meanwhile, Scranton Prep looks poised to climb, and Wilkes-Barre Area (WBA) appears to be finding its rhythm.
Key Rankings & Recent Performances
1. Valley View (Previous Rank: 1)
• The Cougars remain undefeated, showcasing their dominance with a 56-28 win over North Pocono on January 2. They also handled Mid Valley 47-35 on December 29, using their suffocating defense and efficient offense to maintain their top spot. Valley View looks untouchable heading into the second half of the season.
2. Scranton (Previous Rank: 2)
• Scranton held its ground with a 57-54 victory over Scranton Prep on January 2, further solidifying its status as a top contender. The Knights are playing consistent basketball and have the tools to stay competitive against Valley View in the postseason.
3. Dallas (Previous Rank: 4)
• Dallas climbs to No. 3 after a gritty 55-48 win over Crestwood on January 2. Their disciplined style of play and ability to close out tight games make them a team to watch as the season progresses.
4. Abington Heights (Previous Rank: 3)
• The Comets slide to No. 4 despite defeating Delaware Valley 58-48 on January 2. While Abington Heights remains a solid contender, their struggles to dominate in key games could cost them down the stretch.
5. Crestwood (Previous Rank: 9)
• Crestwood jumps four spots to No. 5 after impressive performances, including their strong showing against Dallas. The Comets are finding their rhythm and are capable of challenging any team in the top five.
6. Scranton Prep (Previous Rank: 5)
• Prep drops one spot to No. 6 after narrowly losing to Scranton, 57-54. Despite the setback, Prep’s 84-56 blowout victory over Dunmore on December 29 highlights their potential. Expect the Classics to make a push in the coming weeks.
7. Delaware Valley (Previous Rank: NR)
• Delaware Valley enters the rankings at No. 7 after a 58-45 win over East Stroudsburg North on December 30. They’ve proven they can compete against mid-level teams but will need to string together wins against higher-ranked opponents.
8. Pittston Area (Previous Rank: 8)
• Pittston Area stays at No. 8 after securing back-to-back victories, including an 86-65 win over Nativity and a 60-50 win against Wyoming Area. Their consistency keeps them in the mix.
9. Wallenpaupack (Previous Rank: 7)
• Wallenpaupack slides to No. 9 after a 53-45 win over West Scranton. While their defense has been solid, they’ll need more offensive firepower to rise in the rankings.
10. Wilkes-Barre Area (Previous Rank: NR)
• WBA cracks the top 10 after an impressive 72-70 victory over Hazleton on January 4. The Wolfpack is gaining momentum and could be a dark horse contender as the season progresses.
Analysis: Valley View’s Dominance and the Race for No. 2
Valley View continues to look untouchable, while the battle for the second spot remains wide open. Scranton has the consistency to hold on, but teams like Dallas, Crestwood, and Scranton Prep are making moves. Meanwhile, Wilkes-Barre Area’s resurgence adds another layer of intrigue to this already unpredictable season.
With the top 10 so tightly contested, every game matters. Can Valley View be dethroned, or will the Cougars run the table? The second half of the season promises excitement as these teams fight for District 2 supremacy.
