DeKalb County Boys Basketball Faces Major Changes for 2025-26 Season

As the 2025-26 boys basketball season approaches, teams in DeKalb County are bracing for significant changes and challenges. With the departure of key players, including the highly acclaimed Sean Reynolds, the DeKalb Barbs face one of their toughest seasons in recent history. After recording three consecutive 20-win seasons, the Barbs’ roster will look remarkably different, putting pressure on remaining players to step up.

The Barbs have lost all five starters from last season, including Davon Grant, who is pursuing football at the collegiate level. This exodus leaves a gap that will require Bryan Miller, Myles Newman, and Derrion Straughter to take on more prominent roles. Coach Mike Reynolds, now entering his seventh season, aims to secure a third consecutive regional title and maintain the program’s winning tradition, which last faltered in the 2013-14 season with a record of 14-18.

Sycamore’s New Addition Enhances Title Hopes

The Sycamore Spartans are looking to build on their successful 2024-25 campaign that saw them achieve a 24-9 record and win a regional title for the first time since the 2016-17 season. With the graduation of Unique Shaw, who provided essential scoring support alongside Isaiah Feuerbach, the Spartans have added a new asset to their lineup. Marcus Johnson transfers in from Genoa-Kingston after averaging 19 points, four assists, and five rebounds per game.

Feuerbach, who averaged 16 points per game but missed part of last season due to injury, hopes to return to full strength and lead the team. With the integration of Johnson, Sycamore is poised to remain competitive and strive for further accolades.

Challenges Ahead for Kaneland and Local Rivals

Kaneland Knights, who finished last season with an impressive 32-2 record, will have to adapt to the loss of Freddy Hassan, a standout forward who averaged 15 points and 10 rebounds per game. Despite his departure, the Knights return most of their key players, including Marshawn Cocroft, who was named player of the year in the Interstate 8 after averaging 17 points per game, and Jeffrey Hassan, who is expected to step up in his brother’s absence.

Meanwhile, both Indian Creek and Hinckley-Big Rock are coming off successful seasons and hope to continue their upward trajectory. Indian Creek has seen significant improvements under coach Nolan Govig, achieving two consecutive 20-win seasons after struggling in the previous years. Despite the loss of Martin Ledbetter, a three-time all-area selection, the Royals aim to maintain their competitive edge.

Hinckley-Big Rock is also looking to build on their recent success, having secured a solid foundation with returning players like Jason Brewer and Parker Murry. The Timberwolves lost Everett Willis, a key contributor, but look forward to enhancing their roster with new talent.

Coaching stability remains a vital component in DeKalb County, with only Hiawatha introducing a new head coach this year. Andrew Charles takes over from Matthew Montavon, while the other six programs retain their coaches, ensuring continuity in player development and strategy.

As the season unfolds, the DeKalb County basketball landscape promises excitement and unpredictability, with each team navigating its unique challenges and opportunities. The upcoming months will reveal how these changes impact the competitive spirit of local high school basketball.