Computer Rankings, Forfeits Make for Strange Basketball Seedings

CIF San Diego Section girls basketball brackets released using MaxPreps.com rankings spark debate over human element in seeding process.

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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The release of the CIF San Diego Section girls basketball brackets using computer rankings from MaxPreps.com has sparked debate over whether a human element should be involved in the seeding process. While the computer rankings placed Francis Parker as the No. 1 seed in the Open Division, some question whether teams like La Jolla Country Day, which had a better record against top teams, should have been seeded higher. Additionally, the impact of forfeits on team records and seedings has raised concerns about the fairness of the current system.

Why it matters

The use of computer rankings to determine seedings in high school basketball playoffs is a growing trend, but this case highlights the potential issues with relying solely on algorithms. The debate over whether a human element should be involved in the seeding process touches on larger questions about the role of technology in sports and the balance between objective data and subjective analysis.

The details

The CIF San Diego Section girls basketball brackets were released using computer rankings from MaxPreps.com, which placed Francis Parker (18-7) as the No. 1 seed in the Open Division, followed by Mater Dei Catholic (23-2), Cathedral Catholic (22-6), and Mission Hills (18-10). However, La Jolla Country Day (17-10), which split its regular-season series with both Parker and Mission Hills and beat Mater Dei Catholic, was seeded fifth. This has led some to question whether the computer rankings accurately reflect the strength of the teams. Additionally, the impact of forfeits on team records and seedings has raised concerns, as MaxPreps recognizes forfeits as only a contest, not a win or loss.

  • The CIF San Diego Section girls basketball brackets were released on Saturday, February 15, 2026.
  • The Open Division quarterfinal matchup between Mission Hills and La Jolla Country Day will take place on Friday.

The players

Francis Parker

A high school basketball team in San Diego, California, seeded No. 1 in the CIF San Diego Section girls basketball Open Division.

Mater Dei Catholic

A high school basketball team in San Diego, California, seeded No. 2 in the CIF San Diego Section girls basketball Open Division.

Cathedral Catholic

A high school basketball team in San Diego, California, seeded No. 3 in the CIF San Diego Section girls basketball Open Division.

Mission Hills

A high school basketball team in San Diego, California, seeded No. 4 in the CIF San Diego Section girls basketball Open Division.

La Jolla Country Day

A high school basketball team in San Diego, California, seeded No. 5 in the CIF San Diego Section girls basketball Open Division.

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What they’re saying

“It's not a discussion for these pairings, but the Coaches Advisory Committee can bring up proposed changes at their postseason meeting.”

— Joe Heinz, San Diego Section commissioner (sandiegouniontribune.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.