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.
Ahmad Hudson of
Ruston is the 2025-26 MaxPreps Louisiana High School Basketball Player of the Year. The 6-foot-7 junior center led the Bearcats to a 26-4 record and an appearance in the state championship game.
For the season, Hudson averaged around 20 points, 14 rebounds and three blocked shots per game.
Two-sport star Ahmad Hudson led Ruston to state championship games in basketball and football this year. (PHOTO: Jay Johnson)
In a 63-60 loss to Zachary in the Division I Non-Select state final, Hudson tallied 32 points, 24 rebounds, seven blocks and four steals. He also tallied 19 points, 12 rebounds, seven steals and four blocked shots in a 71-57 victory over Central (Baton Rouge) in the semifinals.
A dual-sport athlete, Hudson is regarded as the No. 3 tight end prospect in the Class of 2027 according to Rivals. He is also regarded as top 50 basketball prospect nationally.
Hudson earned first team MaxPreps Junior All-America honors last fall after a standout season on the gridiron.
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 Louisiana Players of the Year
2019-20 – Reece Beekman, Scotlandville (Baton Rouge)
2020-21 – Carlos Stewart, Dunham (Baton Rouge)
2021-22 – Solomon Washington, Carver Collegiate Academy (New Orleans)
2022-23 – Chris Lockett Jr., Newman (New Orleans)
2023-24 – Allen Graves, Ponchatoula
2024-25 – Drew Timmons, Archbishop Hannan (Covington)
