Montgomery Academy's secret star leads title defense

Sophomore Mason Ellis emerges as key player for private school powerhouse.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Montgomery Academy, a private school in Alabama, has a rising star on its basketball team in sophomore Mason Ellis. After not playing much as a freshman, Ellis has become a key contributor this season as the team looks to defend its state championship title.

Why it matters

Montgomery Academy has been a dominant force in Alabama high school basketball, winning multiple state titles. The emergence of Mason Ellis as a breakout player is crucial for the team's continued success and ability to fend off challenges from public school programs, especially with a recent AHSAA decision to split public and private school competitions.

The details

After a limited role as a freshman, Montgomery Academy sophomore Mason Ellis has stepped up this season to become a key player for the team. Ellis' increased playing time and production have been a major factor in the team's strong start as they look to defend their state championship.

  • Montgomery Academy won the state championship title last season.
  • The AHSAA recently announced a decision to split public and private school competitions starting next season.

The players

Mason Ellis

A sophomore basketball player at Montgomery Academy who has emerged as a key contributor this season after a limited role as a freshman.

Montgomery Academy

A private high school in Alabama that has been a dominant force in the state's basketball scene, winning multiple championships.

AHSAA

The Alabama High School Athletic Association, which recently announced a decision to split public and private school competitions starting next season.

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What they’re saying

“Oh, he (Ellis) didn't play,”

— Heath Harmon (Montgomery Advertiser)

What’s next

The AHSAA's decision to split public and private school competitions starting next season will be a major factor in determining Montgomery Academy's path to defending its state championship title.

The takeaway

The emergence of sophomore Mason Ellis as a key player for Montgomery Academy's basketball team highlights the program's continued dominance and ability to develop talent, even as the competitive landscape shifts with the AHSAA's decision to separate public and private school competitions.