The latest rankings for Missouri girls high school basketball reveal a competitive landscape, showcasing significant performances from top teams as of January 12, 2026. Teams have validated their positions through impressive victories and challenging matchups, with many programs demonstrating potential that exceeds their current records. This week’s update highlights the dominance of certain teams, the quality of their opponents, and the momentum building as the season progresses.
Top Teams Stand Out
Incarnate Word Academy remains firmly at the top of the rankings with a record of 10-2. Their recent performance included a remarkable victory over Long Island Lutheran (NY), the second-ranked team in the nation. Senior guard Peyton Olufson led the charge, scoring 31 points and reinforcing their position as the favorites in Class 6.
Following closely, Staley High School (11-2) maintained their second-place ranking after a decisive win against Liberty North. They also faced tough competition at the Sophie Cunningham Classic, defeating Faith Family (TX) but narrowly losing to Long Island Lutheran. Their two wins, marked by significant margins, underline their strength in the current season.
Kickapoo High School, still undefeated at 12-0, ranked third, continued to dominate local competition. Victories over Willard and Parkview showcased a strong team effort, particularly from dynamic duo Josie Salazar and Lexi Ringgold.
Emerging Contenders and Key Performances
In the fourth spot, Lee’s Summit West (10-1) has proven to be a formidable force, with senior guard Antil Snoddy stepping up as a key player. Their upcoming match against Blue Springs South will be critical for maintaining their high standing.
The fifth-ranked team, Principia (14-2), demonstrated their capabilities during the Sophie Cunningham Classic, earning wins against West Plains and Olathe South. Freshman guard Aniyah Poniewaz has emerged as a standout player, contributing significantly to the team’s success.
Other notable mentions include Jackson (9-0), who secured a commanding victory over previously undefeated Festus, and Lutheran St. Charles (7-4), who will look to regain momentum following an eleven-day break before their matchup against Helias.
The rankings also reflect the importance of strength of schedule, as seen with Tipton (8-5). Despite starting the season with a 2-4 record, they have remained in the top ten, recently defeating Stafford (ranked 13th last week) by a significant margin of 66-34.
As the season progresses, teams like Cor Jesu and Strafford are rising through the ranks, each showcasing the potential for playoff success. Cor Jesu’s recent win against MICDS (45-30) highlights their defensive strength, while Strafford’s victories at the Sophie Cunningham Classic suggest they may be turning a corner in their performance.
With the season entering a pivotal phase, teams will be looking to capitalize on their current momentum. Upcoming matches, particularly in conference play, will further shape the rankings and determine which teams solidify their status as true contenders in Missouri girls high school basketball.
