The Enduring Legacy of Los Angeles High School Basketball: A Pipeline to the NBA
As the NBA prepares for the 75th All-Star Game at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California, it’s a fitting moment to reflect on the remarkable talent consistently produced by Los Angeles area high schools. The region has long been a breeding ground for basketball excellence, shaping some of the league’s most iconic players.
A History of Championship Caliber Players
From NBA champions to collegiate stars, the Los Angeles area boasts a seemingly endless supply of basketball talent. Recent standouts demonstrate this continued dominance, with players consistently making an impact at the professional level.
LaMelo Ball: A Scoring Sensation
LaMelo Ball’s high school career at Chino Hills High was nothing short of legendary. His sophomore year was highlighted by an astonishing 92-point performance, showcasing his scoring prowess. He averaged 27.5 points, 9.6 assists, and 4.2 rebounds that year. Alongside his brothers, Lonzo and LiAngelo, he led Chino Hills to a perfect 35-0 record and a state title.
Kawhi Leonard: A Late Bloomer’s Rise
Kawhi Leonard’s path to stardom wasn’t as immediately apparent. He was ranked No. 56 nationally in 2009, but his senior year at Martin Luther King High School in Riverside, California, saw him average 22.6 points, 13.1 rebounds, 3.9 assists, and three blocks. He earned the title of California Mr. Basketball.
James Harden: Back-to-Back State Titles
James Harden led Artesia High School in Lakewood, California, to consecutive state championships. As a senior in 2007, he averaged 18.8 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 3.9 assists, earning McDonald’s All-American honors and a No. 14 ranking in the SC Next 100.
Tyson Chandler: Dominance in Compton
Tyson Chandler was a dominant force at Dominguez High School in Compton, California. He averaged 26 points, 15 rebounds, and eight blocks as a senior, leading his team to a state title. Ranked No. 4 in the SC Next 100, he bypassed college to become the No. 2 overall pick in the NBA draft by the LA Clippers.
DeMar DeRozan: High-Flying Performances
DeMar DeRozan stood out at Compton High School, averaging 29.2 points and 7.9 rebounds during his senior season. This performance earned him a spot in the McDonald’s All-American game and a No. 8 ranking in the SC Next 100.
Jrue Holiday: Gatorade National Player of the Year
Jrue Holiday dominated whereas at Campbell Hall School in Los Angeles, leading the Vikings to a state title with averages of 25.9 points, 11.2 rebounds, 6.9 assists, and 4.8 steals. He was named the 2008 Gatorade National Player of the Year and ranked No. 4 in the SC Next 100.
Jordan Farmar: Scoring Records at Taft High
Jordan Farmar scored over 2,000 points in two years at Taft High School in Woodland Hills, California, averaging 27.5 points and 6.5 assists as a senior in 2004. He led Taft to its first City title and earned McDonald’s All-American recognition.
Klay Thompson: State Title Contender
Klay Thompson led Santa Margarita High School in Rancho Santa Margarita, California, to the Division III state title game, averaging 21 points as a senior in 2008. He was ranked No. 53 in the SC Next 100.
Lonzo Ball: Perfect Season Leader
Lonzo Ball spearheaded Chino Hills High School’s undefeated season in 2016, averaging 23.9 points, 11.3 rebounds, and 11.5 assists as a senior. He was a McDonald’s All-American and ranked No. 4 in the SC Next 100.
The Future of LA Basketball
The consistent production of NBA-caliber talent from Los Angeles high schools isn’t a coincidence. The region’s competitive landscape, dedicated coaching, and strong basketball culture all contribute to this success. As the NBA continues to evolve, Los Angeles is poised to remain a vital source of future stars.
FAQ
Q: Where is the 2026 NBA All-Star Game being held?
A: The 2026 NBA All-Star Game is being held at the Intuit Dome in Inglewood, California.
Q: What is the new format for the 2026 NBA All-Star Game?
A: The game will feature a round-robin tournament with four 12-minute games, involving a World team and two U.S.-born teams.
Q: Who are some notable players from Los Angeles high schools?
A: LaMelo Ball, Kawhi Leonard, James Harden, Tyson Chandler, DeMar DeRozan, Jrue Holiday, Jordan Farmar, Klay Thompson, and Lonzo Ball are just a few examples.
Q: Where can I watch the 2026 NBA All-Star Game?
A: The game will be televised on NBC and streamed on Peacock.
Did you know? The Intuit Dome is considered one of the most technologically advanced arenas ever built.
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