For the seventh season in a row, Bounce and Outside the Huddle are counting down who they feel are the top 50 individual players in northeast Indiana heading into the 2025-2026 season.
Want to know how we come up with our rankings? Click here.
Today, we continue the countdown on the boys hoops side with positions No. 25-21.
No. 25 – Josh McBride, Norwell
Josh McBride has emerged as a versatile forward who takes pride in doing the hard stuff that often goes unnoticed in the box score. Averaging 12.6 points per game, 6.3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals it is evident that he’s engaged on both ends of the court His rebound total demonstrates his willingness to battle inside against some bigger NE8 competition. He’s aware and active in making plays happen, not simply waiting for the ball or just being a shooter. McBride’s game is built on effort, positioning and basketball IQ: he moves without the ball, finds open spaces to attack, and stays locked in.
Coach’s Quote on McBride
“Josh had a good freshmen season last year. He has to continue to grow and develop his game, and we are looking for him to take on a bigger leadership role along with improved consistency.” – Norwell coach Mike McBride
No. 24 – Jayvon Irby, South Side
A super athletic guard to lead the Archers, Irby stepped into a larger role during the 2024-25 season—averaging 10.7 points per game, 4.1 rebounds, 4.6 assists, and 1.4 steals – and will be expected to raise his game again. He displayed impressive efficiency from distance, converting 47% of his three-point attempts, ranking him first on the team in that category. He is a point guard who can create for others, defend actively, and score when needed, but the scoring will still take an uptick this season after a strong summer with the basketball in his hands more. He had 11 double digit scoring games, led by 20 points against North Side, and had 12 games of five or more assists led by 9 against Leo.
Coach’s Quote on Irby
“We look forward to seeing Jayvon take the next steps with his development. He is a talented young man that will be asked to do it all this season night in and night out.” – South Side coach JJ Foster
No. 23 – Titus Schultz, Huntington North
He averaged 12.7 points per game, along with 3.3 rebounds and 1.4 assists in 24 games last season, rarely coming off the floor for the Vikings. A versatile shooting guard, Schultz has shown steady progression from his freshman year—significantly increasing scoring output and confidence on the court. He shot 44 percent from the field and 33 percent from three point range a season ago, knocking down 36 triples and placing second there and in scoring behind All-Area performer Ethan Zahn. Schultz had 14 games where he hit multiple three pointers, including four opposite Snider. He had three 20-plus point games during the season
Coach’s Quote on Schultz
“Really extended his range shooting the ball due to gaining much strength in the weight room. Titus has really worked on his quickness which helps both sides of the ball. He is going to be a big leader for us this season.” – Huntington North coach Eric Thompson
No. 22 – Braylend Reber, Adams Central
Reber has continued to capture attention as a dynamic athlete who will be coming off a strong season on the gridiron. The 6-foot-4 senior wing blends size, athleticism, and instinctive play that helped the Flying Jets tick a season ago. On the offensive end, he averaged 15 points per game, showing he can consistently put the ball in the basket and carry offensive load, even doing so last season next to another high end scorer. On the boards, he pulled down 7 rebounds per contest, with willingness to crash the glass and extend beyond just perimeter play. Defensively, his three steals per game highlight his ability to read passing lanes, apply pressure, and create transition opportunities for his team using that length.
Coach’s Quote on Reber
“Braylend Reber I believe can be a very dangerous player on the floor because of his ability to play many positions. He will be a big piece to what we do on both sides of the floor. Brayland is very good at attacking the floor and getting to the rim. With him being a senior we will be longing for his experience to help in many ways on and off the court.” – Adams Central coach Casey Adams
No. 21 – Jake Coolman, Homestead
A key contributor for Homestead, Coolman continued to develop into one of the program’s most versatile frontcourt players during the 2024-25 season. A strong and athletic presence inside, Coolman consistently provided scoring (8.3 ppg), rebounding (3.8 rpg), and defensive toughness that complemented Homestead’s up-tempo offensive style. Displaying improving range and touch from mid-distance, Coolman’s scoring and passing (3 apg) help space out the floor substantially for Homestead. Beyond traditional offense, Coolman’s value was most evident in his work on the glass and his ability to defend multiple positions. His steady progression and physical maturity have positioned him as one of the SAC’s emerging talents
Coach’s Quote on Coolman
“Third year for being the point guard for the Spartans. Controls the tempo of the game and sees the floor extremely well.” – Homestead coach Chris Johnson
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