With the GHSA state tournaments beginning this week, we’ve been examining brackets trying to find themes, favorites, notes, etc. 

6A has been one of the more intriguing brackets over the last two seasons. While there are favorites, contenders, it’s a field that could see upsets and surprise runs. 

Let’s take a look at some of the teams that intrigue us. 

The favorite 

The top storyline in the 6A tournament will be whether the Alexander can repeat or not. Kennesaw State commit Braedan Lue is the most formidable weapon in the tournament with his blend of skill, power, size and athleticism. Alongside Lue, sophomore Pops Dunson can provide significant firepower from the guard spot. In addition to that pair, junior Chris Hutchinson can knock down shots from deep when needed. Alexander opens as the favorite to win it all after a season that saw them amass 25 wins to two losses. 

A sneaky one

Lee County is one of the toughest opponents to face in a setting like this. The Trojans have given teams problems in state tournaments for years. The drive from the Atlanta metro to deep south Georgia is no joke, and they pack that gym out this time of year. It’s the best home court advantage. The Trojans have shown it all season too. They’re 23-3 with wins over several region tournament champions like Peachtree Ridge and Baldwin. 

Scouting talent

The best long-term prospect in the field is Shiloh’s Tylis Jordan. The 2025 W/F has taken a massive step forward when it comes to consistency and toughness on the floor. Long known for his upside, Jordan looks like he can help take the Generals on a deep run alongside teammates like Jullien Cole and Cameron Stephen. 

Three more to look for

Woodward Academy has a chance to emerge from their quadrant of the bracket and breakthrough to a final four. The War Eagles have plenty in their arsenal that can lead them on a winning streak. Juniors Zach Foster, Payton Waites, and Deke Cooper make up a solid, reliable core while senior Brandon Peters will look to continue his impressive final season. 

Going to Lee County to open a tournament is no easy task, but that’s what’s ahead of Riverwood. Between guards Karris Bilal and JR Leonard, the Raiders have two guards that can get hot and take over games. This is a battle-tested group with the kind of talent to go deep if they make it past their first test.

Part program reliability, part youthful talent, St. Pius X is a team to look out for. The Golden Lions can make some noise in their quadrant of the bracket, and sophomores Tobias Brinkley, Harris Reynolds and Dmarley Elliott could further establish themselves as some of the names to know in the state’s 2026 class.