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Ruston Today
By the People, for the People
Class 5A Boys and Girls All-State Teams Announced by the LSWA
Ruston's Ahmad Hudson and Zachary's Ava Raymond named Outstanding Players
Apr. 8, 2026 at 3:05pm
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The Louisiana Sports Writers Association has announced the Class 5A All-State boys and girls basketball teams, with Ruston's Ahmad Hudson and Zachary's Ava Raymond named the respective Outstanding Players. Hudson, a 6-foot-8 junior, led Ruston to the Division-I non-select title game, while Raymond, a McNeese State signee, helped Zachary repeat as girls champions.
Why it matters
The announcement of the Class 5A All-State teams is a significant event in Louisiana high school basketball, recognizing the top players and coaches from the state's largest classification. The selections highlight the standout individual performances and team accomplishments from the recently completed season.
The details
Ahmad Hudson, a 6-foot-8 junior forward from Ruston, was named the boys' Outstanding Player after averaging 19.7 points, 13.4 rebounds and 2.7 blocks per game. He had a monster performance in the title game with 32 points, 24 rebounds, seven blocks and four assists. On the girls' side, Zachary's Ava Raymond, a McNeese State signee, was voted the Outstanding Player after leading the Lady Broncos to a repeat championship. She averaged 17.4 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals and 2 assists per game, including a 27-point, 9-rebound, 5-steal effort in the final.
- The Louisiana high school basketball seasons ended with Division-I non-select title games in March 2026.
- The LSWA announced the Class 5A All-State teams on April 8, 2026.
The players
Ahmad Hudson
A 6-foot-8 junior forward from Ruston High School who was named the boys' Outstanding Player after leading his team to the Division-I non-select title game.
Ava Raymond
A senior guard from Zachary High School who was voted the girls' Outstanding Player after helping the Lady Broncos repeat as state champions.
Jonathan McClinton
The boys' Coach of the Year after leading Zachary to a 34-3 record and its fourth state title in six years.
Kristin Twillie
The girls' Coach of the Year after guiding Slidell to its first state tournament and title game appearance.
What they’re saying
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee
The takeaway
The announcement of the Class 5A All-State teams showcases the exceptional talent and coaching in Louisiana high school basketball, with Ruston's Ahmad Hudson and Zachary's Ava Raymond earning the top individual honors. The repeat championships for Zachary's boys and girls programs also highlight the continued excellence of the school's basketball programs.
