Globe Top 20 boys’ basketball poll: Holidays present something old/something new

Key Takeaways:

• Central Catholic’s winning streak in the Commonwealth Motors Classic has propelled it to first place.
• Cambridge debuts at No. 12 after clinching its Legends Classic title.
• Holiday tournaments have played a decisive role in shaping the new poll standings.
• Eastern Massachusetts remains a hotbed of competitive high school basketball.
• The newest Globe Top 20 offers insights into teams’ midseason momentum.

Central Catholic Reclaims No. 1

Central Catholic’s remarkable run of three wins in the Commonwealth Motors Classic played a pivotal role in its climb to the top of the Globe Top 20 boys’ basketball poll. With a roster that executed under pressure, the team seized the momentum during the holiday break to solidify its position at No. 1.

Cambridge Breaks into the Rankings

A notable development this week is the emergence of Cambridge at No. 12. The team made headlines by taking home the championship in its Legends Classic. Although new to the Top 20 this season, Cambridge’s success suggests it could be a contender to watch as the competition intensifies.

The Impact of Holiday Classics

Holiday tournaments can be season-defining for high school programs. Central Catholic’s and Cambridge’s performances underscored the importance of these events in reshuffling polls and revealing new favorites. Teams that excel in these competitions often gather early-season momentum, setting the tone for the challenging weeks ahead.

Looking Forward

As the holiday season wraps up, basketball fans in Eastern Massachusetts can expect more fierce contests—and potentially more surprises—in the Globe Top 20. With Central Catholic at the summit and Cambridge eager to rise further, the weeks following the winter break promise to deliver high-stakes matchups across the region.