Long Beach Poly Boys’ Basketball 2025-26 Season Preview

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Long Beach Poly Boys’ Basketball Gears Up for Promising 2025-26 Season

Jackrabbits Aim to Build on Legacy with Strong Roster and Ambitious Goals

Long Beach Poly is set to embark on the 2025-26 boys’ basketball season with high expectations, despite the departure of key seniors.

Last season, the Jackrabbits bid farewell to standout players, including all-time leading scorer Jovani Ruff, now at Cal, and stalwarts Austin Unegbu and Giovanni Ofoegbu.

Despite these losses, the team is poised for a strong comeback.

Opening the season ranked No. 20 in California, Poly continues to uphold its storied tradition, boasting 2,187 wins, a state-record 66 league titles, and 20 CIF-SS titles.

Head coach Shelton Diggs draws parallels to past seasons, emphasizing the team's resilience and cohesion.

Leading the charge is 6-foot-10 center Jonas Oware, committed to Yale, alongside 6-foot-2 guard Nana Ofoegbu.

The frontcourt is bolstered by 6-foot-7 junior Isaac Hagens, while experienced guards John Chansy and Julian Calderone anchor the backcourt.

Oware acknowledges the need for players to step up in the absence of Ruff, emphasizing a collective effort to achieve their goals.

Ofoegbu highlights the team's growing chemistry and shared commitment, noting the freedom and brotherhood that define this year's squad.

Depth is a key asset, with sophomore Jakobi Oware, Jonas's younger brother, emerging as a versatile 6-foot-6 player attracting mid-major offers.

Additional depth comes from 6-foot-7 Jett Von and transfers Jeremiah Graham and Jayden Ganther.

Coach Diggs notes the team's impressive size, with seven players standing 6-foot-3 or taller, enhancing their defensive and rebounding capabilities.

The Jackrabbits face a challenging non-league schedule, including matchups against Windward, Harvard-Westlake, and state-ranked Mayfair.

They will also participate in the Bosco Winter Tournament and the St. Francis Tournament, alongside Moore League play.

Diggs, a Poly alumnus, emphasizes the importance of a successful season to uplift the campus community following a tough football season.

The team's goals are clear: win the league and pursue a CIF division title, with aspirations of securing the program's first state championship since the era of coach Ron Palmer.

With a blend of seasoned talent and promising newcomers, Long Beach Poly is poised for an exciting and competitive season ahead.