UPDATE: The latest rankings of Florida’s top high school basketball players since 2000 have just been released, spotlighting legendary athletes who have made a mark on the game. This urgent announcement highlights the impressive legacies of players like Cooper Flagg and Sylvia Fowles, showcasing their unprecedented achievements that resonate today.
Officials confirm that the rankings emphasize high school accolades, including state titles, national honors, and individual awards. This focus on on-court dominance and long-term influence underscores why these athletes matter RIGHT NOW, especially as the next generation of talent emerges.
1. Amar’e Stoudemire, Cypress Creek High School (Class of 2002)
Known for his dominance, Stoudemire averaged an astounding 29.1 points, 15 rebounds, and 6.1 blocks per game in his senior year. His performance earned him the title of Florida’s Mr. Basketball and a spot as a McDonald’s All-American. Stoudemire was drafted No. 9 overall by the Phoenix Suns in 2002, making history as the first prep-to-pro player to win NBA Rookie of the Year.
2. Cooper Flagg, Montverde Academy (Class of 2024)
Emerging as a prodigy, Flagg propelled Montverde to a perfect 33-0 season, averaging 16.5 points, 7.5 rebounds, and earning multiple prestigious honors, including Gatorade National Player of the Year. His immediate impact at Duke led the Blue Devils to the Final Four, where he posted 19.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 4.2 assists per game.
3. Cameron Boozer, Columbus High School (Class of 2025)
Boozer led his team to four consecutive state championships and averaged 22.2 points and 11.4 rebounds per game. Ranked No. 3 in the ESPN 100, his accolades include two Gatorade National Player of the Year awards. He is set to join Duke in the fall, signaling a bright future.
4. Brandon Knight, Pine Crest High School (Class of 2010)
Knight’s stellar career at Pine Crest featured two state championships and an impressive senior year averaging 32.5 points. Drafted No. 8 by the Detroit Pistons in 2011, he played nine seasons in the NBA and was named to the All-Rookie First Team.
5. Austin Rivers, Winter Park High School (Class of 2011)
Rivers led Winter Park to back-to-back state titles while averaging 29.2 points in his senior season. His accolades include Florida’s Mr. Basketball and Gatorade Player of the Year. Rivers spent 11 seasons in the NBA, further solidifying his legacy.
Among the notable female players, Sylvia Fowles stands out as a three-time state champion. At Gulliver Prep, she averaged 20.6 points and 11.6 rebounds per game, earning McDonald’s All-American honors. Drafted No. 2 by the Chicago Sky in 2008, Fowles went on to become an eight-time WNBA All-Star, capturing two WNBA titles.
The rankings also feature Erlana Larkins, Tiffany Hayes, Dorian “Shante” Williams, and Destanni Henderson, each with their own remarkable legacies.
Fans and supporters are urged to share their thoughts on these rankings as the influence of these players continues to inspire young athletes. The impact of Florida’s top hoopers is felt deeply in communities and schools across the state, emphasizing the importance of youth sports.
As the basketball season heats up, all eyes will be on the next generation of talent emerging from Florida’s high schools. Stay tuned for more updates as rankings evolve and new stars begin to shine.
