2025-26 RIIL Midseason Report

JP Pinkrah | Monday, January 26th, 2026

We've reached the midpoint of the high school basketball season. The state of Rhode Island's RIIL has a number of teams who are vying for a championship this winter.

Here's a rundown of some teams to know.

Lincoln: Lincoln has firmly established itself as the consensus No. 1 team in the RIIL, standing as the only undefeated squad at 15–0 after a 53–42 win over Barrington. The Lions own notable victories over top-10 opponents Westerly and Shea, validating their position at the top. The backcourt duo of Josh Bergeron ’26 and Gianni Pagios ’26 continues to control games while consistently filling the stat sheet.

Barrington: Barrington sits at 11-1 on the season, with its only loss in RIIL play coming against top-seeded Lincoln. The Eagles have picked up quality wins over La Salle and Central, reinforcing their standing among the RIIL’s top contenders. The duo of Colin McDermott ’26, a knockdown scorer, and Caleb Satisfield ’26, a crafty downhill guard, drives an offense capable of pressuring defenses in multiple ways.

Bishop Hendricken: Bishop Hendricken sits at 5–1 in league play with a notable win over Central, with its losses coming against strong competition in Bridgewater-Raynham (MA) and Classical. Deion Ellis-Cipriano ’26 has been on a scoring tear, posting multiple performances north of 20 points. Michael D’Ambra ’27 and Will Cary ’26 provide additional scoring punch and stability.

Classical: Classical enters at 10-5 overall with statement wins over La Salle and Bishop Hendricken. Eliezer Delbrey ’26 has cemented his legacy as the program’s all-time leading scorer and continues to lead the Purple with poise and shot-making. The emergence of 6’7 Moh Fadia ’27 and Joshua Jonah ’26 adds size and upside to an already dangerous group.

Westerly: Westerly has emerged as one of the most consistent teams in the state, holding a 12–3 record. The Bulldogs own strong wins over Johnston, East Providence, and Cranston East. Their balance and execution have allowed them to control games against a wide range of opponents.

La Salle: La Salle is 6–3 in league play as it navigates life after graduating significant championship-level talent. The reigning state champions still own quality wins over Smithfield and Tolman. Nicholas Tarro ’26 continues to impress with his athleticism and growing offensive role as the Rams redefine their identity.

Shea: Shea holds a 6–5 record with impressive wins over Johnson, Tolman, Cranston East, and East Providence. Elijah Ibidapo ’27 leads the charge with his ability to score inside, finish in transition, and create from the midrange. The presence of his brother, Isaac Ibidapo ’26, a 6’6 high-motor forward, adds physicality and effort on both ends.

Mt. Hope: Mt. Hope has surged to the top of Division II with a 12–1 record, suffering its only loss to Chariho. The Huskies return reigning Division III champion Malraq Roderick ’27, who continues to ascend as a downhill finisher capable of scoring through traffic. Their consistency and physical play have made them a difficult matchup statewide.