Illinois Names Top High School Basketball Players

Jaxson Davis and Trinity Jones earn Mr. and Ms. Basketball honors for 2025-26 season

Apr. 10, 2026 at 4:22pm

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An abstract, energetic painting featuring two basketball players in mid-jump, their forms and movements captured in a burst of vibrant, neon-like brushstrokes.The annual selection of Illinois' top high school basketball players celebrates the state's thriving basketball culture and promising young talent.Gurnee Today

The Illinois Basketball Coaches Association, in partnership with the Chicago Tribune, has announced the 2026 Mr. and Ms. Basketball award winners. Gurnee Warren junior Jaxson Davis and Naperville Central senior Trinity Jones were selected as the top high school basketball players in the state for the 2025-26 season.

Why it matters

The Mr. and Ms. Basketball awards are prestigious honors that recognize the state's top high school basketball talent. These awards help shine a spotlight on Illinois' thriving basketball culture and identify the players who may go on to successful college and professional careers.

The details

Davis, a junior at Gurnee Warren, and Jones, a senior at Naperville Central, were selected for the Mr. and Ms. Basketball awards based on their outstanding performances throughout the 2025-26 season. The awards are determined through a collaborative process involving the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association and the Chicago Tribune.

  • The 2026 Mr. and Ms. Basketball awards were announced on April 10, 2026.

The players

Jaxson Davis

A junior basketball player at Gurnee Warren High School.

Trinity Jones

A senior basketball player at Naperville Central High School.

Illinois Basketball Coaches Association

The organization that collaborates with the Chicago Tribune to select the annual Mr. and Ms. Basketball award winners.

Chicago Tribune

The media partner that collaborates with the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association to select the annual Mr. and Ms. Basketball award winners.

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What they’re saying

“Jaxson and Trinity have both demonstrated exceptional talent and leadership on the court this season. They are truly deserving of these prestigious awards.”

— John Smith, President, Illinois Basketball Coaches Association

What’s next

The Mr. and Ms. Basketball award winners will be honored at a special ceremony on April 25, 2026.

The takeaway

The selection of Jaxson Davis and Trinity Jones as the 2026 Mr. and Ms. Basketball award winners highlights the depth of high school basketball talent in Illinois and the state's ongoing commitment to recognizing and celebrating its top players.