State Tournament 2026 Top Teams-Division 3/Region 11

Bishop Hartley (15-5)- Led by Jakhi Calloway, Hartley has earned the top seed in the Central District while competing in the always physical Central Catholic League. The Hawks have went up against the likes of Newark, Winton Woods and Maysville outside of their league play. Entering the tournament, they have lost 2 of their last 3, including a 38-point loss to Independence. Hartley could potentially have a 3rd game with St. Francis DeSales, who they split the regular season meetings with. 

Marietta (20-4)- The Tigers play a mix of Ohio and West Virginia teams due to their location in the state. This gives them plenty of different styles to go up against on a nightly basis. One of the biggest wins came just three days ago as the Tigers stunned top seeded Miami Trace 55-52. If Marietta can get past New Philadelphia, a team that beat them in the regular season, there could be enough momentum for Marietta to make some noise in the Regionals.

Steubenville (22-1)- Another team that plays a mix of OH/WV teams, the Big Red have lost just once on the year. They entered the tournament winners of 16- straight games. A 4-point victory over Dover put the Big Red in the District Finals to face Chillicothe. Led by Santino Haney, Steubenville might be the favorites in the District/Regional behind their guard play and winning culture this year. 

Walnut Ridge (14-9)- The Scots have not had the best season. After an 0-2 start, Walnut RIdge just hasn’t found their footing and have a mix of close losses and bigger losses. The positive? The Scots have a game with Columbus Centennial, a team they defeated 91-69 earlier in the year. Should Walnut Ridge beat them again, they have yet another big test with Bishop Watterson in a District Final.