Readers of the Montgomery Advertiser voted for their favorite high school basketball players and coaches for the 2025-26 season. MJ Belser from Montgomery Catholic was named boys basketball player of the year, earning 36% of the votes. Lincoln Glass of Macon East was voted boys basketball coach of the year with 46% support. In the girls' category, Prattville's KeLeigh Mullens won player of the year honors, while Kelvin Stokes from Stanhope Elmore took home coach of the year. The polls engaged fans to vote once per hour over a week-long period, reflecting high community involvement.

By the Numbers
  • MJ Belser received 5,779 votes (36%) out of 16,182 total votes for boys player of the year.
  • KeLeigh Mullens garnered 10,423 votes (39%) from a total of 26,723 for girls player of the year.
  • Lincoln Glass secured 11,620 votes (46%) for boys coach of the year out of 25,337 total votes.
  • Kelvin Stokes claimed 13,500 votes (74%) of 18,290 total for girls coach of the year.
State of Play
  • Macon East basketball, led by Lincoln Glass, finished the season with a 16-5 record and reached the AISA playoffs.
  • Stanhope Elmore girls, coached by Kelvin Stokes, advanced to their first AHSAA regional round under his leadership.
What's Next

As the season concludes, lookout for the upcoming 2026-27 high school basketball season, where returning players like Belser and Mullens may further develop their skills. Coaches Glass and Stokes will aim to build on this year鈥檚 successes and leverage their teams鈥� experiences for future competitions.

Bottom Line

The community's engagement through voting reflects a strong support for local high school basketball. Recognition of standout players and coaches serves to inspire and elevate the sport in the Montgomery area, encouraging future participation and enthusiasm.