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Illinois High School Association Considers MaxPreps RPI for Basketball Tournaments
IHSA exploring use of RPI algorithm for seeding high school basketball playoff teams
Mar. 23, 2026 at 8:34am
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The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) is considering using the MaxPreps Rating Percentage Index (RPI) algorithm as a new method for seeding teams in its state high school boys and girls basketball tournaments, potentially starting as soon as next season.
Why it matters
Switching to an RPI-based seeding system could bring more objectivity and consistency to the IHSA basketball playoff process, moving away from the current subjective seeding methods used by local committees. This could impact which teams qualify for the state tournament and how they are matched up.
The details
The IHSA is looking to trial the MaxPreps RPI as a seeding source for its high school basketball tournaments, according to comments from an IHSA official. The RPI system takes into account a team's win-loss record, strength of schedule, and other factors to rank teams. This could replace the current seeding process done by local committees.
- The IHSA is considering implementing the MaxPreps RPI system as soon as the 2026-2027 basketball season.
The players
IHSA
The Illinois High School Association is the governing body for high school sports in the state of Illinois.
MaxPreps
An online high school sports network that provides statistics, rankings, and analysis, including an RPI algorithm used to rank and seed teams.
What’s next
The IHSA will trial the MaxPreps RPI system for seeding its high school basketball tournaments, with a decision on full implementation potentially coming before the 2026-2027 season.
The takeaway
Adopting an RPI-based seeding system could bring more objectivity and consistency to the IHSA basketball playoffs, but will require careful evaluation of how it impacts team selection and matchups compared to the current subjective seeding process.
