25-26 VPA Regular Season Wrap Up

Lambert Byamungu | Monday, March 2nd, 2026

The playoffs are off and running in the state of Vermont’s VPA. A number of talented teams are looking to secure their chance for a championship this March. In this article, we will run through the top five contenders in each division, as well as provide information on where to access the brackets and catch the conclusion of the postseason!

Division I

1. Rice Memorial (17–3)

Rice has been the team to beat in D1. A fast-paced offense that can shoot teams out of the gym, led by junior guard Pascal Munezero, arguably the best player in the state, and Landon Merchant, one of the top rim protectors and bigs in Vermont. This duo flips defense into offense in seconds, creating matchup nightmares. Rice’s success also comes from Jr. forward Moses Pial and Fr. forward Quinn Rogers. The Green Knights are the state's best-shooting team and are seeking redemption after finishing as runners-up last year.

2. South Burlington (15–5)

South Burlington exceeded expectations this season, building its identity through defense and rebounding. Led by two of the best players in Vermont, Paul Comba, a crafty and consistent scoring guard, and Oli Avdibegovic, arguably the top big man in the state. Their inside-out dominance makes them a serious title contender and gives South Burlington a real shot at its first championship.

3. Burlington (15–5)

The reigning champions battled adversity, including an injury to Leander Buckley, but remain one of the most dangerous teams in the state. With depth, pace, and relentless defense led by Ben Koh, Byron Robertson Jr., Mohamed Abdirahman, and Sawyer Judkins, BHS has the tools to reach a third straight final and defend its title.

4. Rutland (14–6)

Rutland has built a strong resume and has the pieces for a deep run. Senior Cooper Sparks brings athletic slashing and energy, while Cellan Wood is a smooth scorer who can heat up quickly. Jr. Ethan Whalen adds offense, and sophomore Adrian Marcus provides rim protection and rebounding. This balanced attack makes Rutland a dangerous matchup.

5. Champlain Valley Union (12–8)

CVU has had an up-and-down season, but it proved it can compete by beating Rice and South Burlington. A disciplined team that runs its sets patiently and plays textbook defense. Led by Owen Scott, Adrian Paliling, and Connor Dubois, this young group has playoff experience and the potential to make a deep run.

Division II

1. Hartford (20–0)

Hartford enters the playoffs undefeated and favored to win it all. They have dominated teams across multiple divisions with heart, grit, and the state’s best depth. Led by Kole Fotion, Noah Jenks, Noah Danieli, Ryan Murphy, and Rex Baning, this group can score from anywhere and creates constant matchup problems.

2. Lamoille (16–4)

Jackson Hoag, one of the best playmakers in the state, Colby Hall, an elite perimeter defender, and James Wallace, one of the top bigs in Vermont, form a scary trio. Their ability to take over games makes Lamoille a real championship threat.

3. Fair Haven (15–5)

Andrew Barker, Sam Kyhill, and Rowan Lincoln power the Slaters. Lincoln provides perimeter scoring, Kyhill brings defense and playmaking, and Barker anchors the paint with rebounding and rim protection. Their grit and chemistry make them a serious contender.

4. Montpelier (11–9)

The five-time defending champs have had a rocky season after graduating their entire starting lineup, but junior guard Stone Poor has stepped up and become the engine for this team. He’s carried the scoring load and helped push Montpelier to the fifth seed. They may not look like the same team as past years, but they’re still a dangerous matchup. The real question is, can they defend their title?

5. Springfield (13–5)

Springfield has quietly built a strong season and is proving doubters wrong. Senior guard Oliver Kelley provides scoring punch, while Bradley Gallant leads the defense. A disciplined group that could surprise teams in March.

Division III

1. Randolph (16–4)

Randolph plays the game the right way. Led by sophomore Eli Messier, one of the top bigs in the state, they have dominated D3 and look like a favorite to win their first title since 1996.

2. Hazen (16–4)

Junior Jameson Lamarre has led Hazen to the second seed in a competitive division. Senior Morgan Michaud handles the little things that fuel their success. Last year’s runners-up are hungry to return to the championship stage.

3. Woodstock (17–3)

A disciplined, well-coached team led by junior guard Elvis Lavallee, one of the top guards in the state. Woodstock’s structure and composure make it a threat to make a deep run.

4. Winooski (15–4)

Winooski is the dark horse in D3. A scrappy, defensive-minded team led by combo guard Hussein Mohamed. Senior Omar Turnage provides shooting and rebounding, while Jacoby Hamlin adds interior toughness. This team can grind out wins.

5. Vergennes (14–6)

One of the most underrated teams in D3. Led by senior Ryker Maushour, they battled injuries but still earned a top-five seed. A tough group that no team wants to face.

Division IV

1. Twinfield/Cabot (19–1)

Twinfield enters as the favorite, riding a long win streak into the playoffs. Senior Tej Stewart, one of the top players in Vermont, and Eli Russell lead the way. Underclassmen Azeem Stewart and Omar Knibb have stepped up and played major roles in the team’s success.

2. West Rutland (20–0)

One of only two undefeated teams in the state. Led by Peter Guay, one of the top scorers in Vermont, and Chase Razanouski, a Castleton football commit. West Rutland enters the playoffs on a 20-game win streak and looks ready for another title run.

3. Mid Vermont Christian (2–0)

After returning to the VPA competition, MVCS has a limited schedule but secured a top seed. They remain a wildcard capable of surprising teams.

4. Mount St. Joseph (17–2)

A major turnaround from last season. Led by junior Gavin Treanor, MSJ has built a winning culture and looks ready to carry momentum into the postseason.

5. Twin Valley (16–4)

Led by brothers Braydon Brown Jr. and freshman Landon Brown, this duo brings athleticism, scoring, defense, and energy. Twin Valley is looking to build on last year’s quarterfinal exit with a deeper run.