Portland Boys Basketball Team Reaches Class A Final

Bulldogs' defense has been outstanding, helping them get hot in the playoffs

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Portland High boys basketball team has gone from a 10-6 team with a revolving lineup to reaching the Class A championship game. After overcoming injuries and setbacks earlier in the season, the Bulldogs have found their chemistry and are playing their best basketball at the right time. Led by senior guard Loic Ramazani's relentless defense and the return to full strength of senior forward Cordell Jones, Portland has upset rivals South Portland and Sanford in the playoffs to earn a spot in the state title game against Camden Hills.

Why it matters

Portland's run to the championship game is a testament to the team's resilience and ability to come together at the right moment. The Bulldogs' stifling defense has been the key to their success, shutting down some of the state's top scorers. This championship appearance is also a milestone for veteran head coach Joe Russo, who has led the program to five state titles over his 36-year tenure.

The details

After Cordell Jones missed the first six weeks of the season with a shoulder injury, Portland has found its groove, with Ramazani and Jones leading the team's relentless man-to-man defense. In the playoffs, the Bulldogs held their opponents' all-conference performers to a combined 22 points, 44 less than their season averages. The team's chemistry has also improved, with the players feeling a special connection on the court.

  • Portland (16-6) will play Camden Hills (20-1) for Maine's Class A boys basketball championship on Saturday, February 27, 2026 at 7:45 p.m.
  • Cordell Jones missed the first six weeks of the season with a shoulder injury suffered in the Thanksgiving Day football game against Deering.

The players

Loic Ramazani

A senior guard for Portland High, known as the best defensive player in the state and averaging five steals per game.

Cordell Jones

A senior forward for Portland High, who is now fully healthy after missing the first six weeks of the season with a shoulder injury. He will play football at the University of Maine next year.

Joe Russo

The head coach of the Portland High boys basketball team, in his 36th year leading the program and having coached five state championship teams.

Nolan Ames

The star player for Camden Hills, Portland's opponent in the Class A championship game.

Maddox Meas

A junior guard for Portland High who also had to overcome a dislocated shoulder from football earlier in the season.

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What they’re saying

“I feel like it's a chemistry. The chemistry is getting better and better each game, and as soon as we step on the court, we get an eight-point lead and, wow, it feels amazing, and to keep it, it's just amazing.”

— Loic Ramazani, Senior Guard (pressherald.com)

“A hundred percent. I'm going to be a little, um, … Yes, I think I'm the best defender in the state.”

— Loic Ramazani, Senior Guard (pressherald.com)

“Now we're just back in the groove, playing a lot, and we just come ready.”

— Maddox Meas, Junior Guard (pressherald.com)

“Now it's come full circle and we're really prepared for everybody. I think I'm at full strength now.”

— Cordell Jones, Senior Forward (pressherald.com)

“It's the best Cordell's ever played for us.”

— Joe Russo, Head Coach (pressherald.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.