Each year since 2006, MaxPreps has recognized outstanding
performers in high school basketball. The tradition continues to close
out the 2025-26 season by naming the top player in each state.
Selections are based on team success and individual excellence in
addition to local and state accolades.
For the season, Andrews averaged 30.7 points, 16.9 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 2.3 steals per game while shooting 60.9 percent from the field, 34.1 percent from 3-point range and 74.7 percent from the free throw line.
John Calipari will welcome J.J. Andrews to the Arkansas program next fall alongside a highly-regarded recruiting class for the Razorbacks. (PHOTO: Ted McClenning)
Despite missing nine games due to injury this season, Andrews finished his career fifth on the state's career scoring list in with 2,865 points.
A four-time all-state selection, Andrews posted 19 double-doubles in 22 games and established a new career-high with 45 points in an 85-72 victory over Marion.
Regarded as the No. 18 prospect in the Class of 2026 by Rivals, Andrews signed with Arkansas over offers from Illinois, Marquette, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina State, Oklahoma, LSU, Texas Tech and USC.
Each
state's MaxPreps Player of the Year will be considered for inclusion in
the MaxPreps All-America Team, which is scheduled to be released in
April. Past selections include 2026 NBA All-Stars Karl Anthony-Towns
(2014), Scottie Barnes (2020), Devin Booker (2014), Jaylen Brown (2015),
Jalen Brunson (2014, 2015), Cade Cunningham (2019, 2020), Kevin Durant
(2006), Jalen Duren (2021), Anthony Edwards (2019), De'Aaron Fox (2016),
Chet Holmgren (2020, 2021), Brandon Ingram (2015), Jalen Johnson
(2019), Tyrese Maxey (2019) and Norman Powell (2011).
Past MaxPreps Arkansas Players of the Year
2019-20 – Chris Moore, West Memphis
2020-21 – Nick Smith, Sylvan Hills (Sherwood)
2021-22 – Nick Smith, North Little Rock
2022-23 – Rashaud Marshall, Blytheville
2023-24 – Annor Boateng, Central (Little Rock)
2024-25 – Terrion Burgess, Benton
