Congratulations: Meet the Tennessee Mr. and Miss Basketball Finalists for the 2025 TSSAA Basketball Award
As the high school basketball season in Tennessee reaches its peak, anticipation builds for one of the most prestigious honors in the state: the Tennessee Mr. and Miss Basketball Awards. These awards, presented annually by the Tennessee Secondary School Athletic Association (TSSAA), recognize the top male and female basketball players in the state. With the 2025 finalists now announced, Tennessee basketball fans are eagerly awaiting the final selection of these standout student-athletes, who have excelled on the court and demonstrated leadership, dedication, and excellence.
The finalists for the Tennessee Mr. and Miss Basketball Awards represent the finest players from all across the state, showcasing not only immense talent but also commitment to their teams, communities, and schools. As the season draws to a close, these remarkable athletes stand out as the best of the best in Tennessee high school basketball.
Let’s take a closer look at the 2025 Tennessee Mr. and Miss Basketball finalists and celebrate their outstanding achievements.
Mr. Basketball Finalists for 2025
The Tennessee Mr. Basketball Award is given annually to the top male high school basketball player in the state. It is based on performance throughout the season, as well as leadership on and off the court. The 2025 finalists for this coveted award are:
- B.J. Edwards (Knoxville Catholic)
- Position: Guard
- College Commitment: University of Tennessee
- Key Stats: Edwards has been a standout player all season long for Knoxville Catholic, leading his team with explosive scoring and exceptional playmaking ability. As one of the most highly recruited players in the state, Edwards has a well-rounded game that includes a mix of sharp shooting, athleticism, and defensive tenacity. His leadership and clutch performances have helped guide Knoxville Catholic to the top of the competitive region.
- James “J.J.” Phillips (Cordova High School)
- Position: Guard/Forward
- College Commitment: University of Alabama
- Key Stats: Phillips has been one of the most dominant players in the Memphis area, combining versatility and athleticism to become a matchup nightmare for opponents. His scoring ability, ball-handling, and rebounding skills have made him a standout. Phillips is known for his ability to score in transition and his strong work ethic, which has made him one of the top prospects in the state.
- Jahari Harris (Oak Ridge High School)
- Position: Forward
- College Commitment: University of Kentucky
- Key Stats: Harris has emerged as one of the most impactful players in the state with his exceptional skills both offensively and defensively. His ability to stretch the floor as a forward with shooting range and to dominate the paint with his strength and rebounding has been instrumental for Oak Ridge. Harris is a versatile player who can defend multiple positions, making him an all-around threat on both ends of the floor.
- Isaiah West (East Nashville Magnet School)
- Position: Guard
- College Commitment: University of Memphis
- Key Stats: West has established himself as one of the top playmakers in Tennessee this season. His court vision and leadership make him a true floor general for East Nashville. West’s ability to distribute the ball, combined with his scoring touch and defensive prowess, has elevated him to the status of one of the top guards in the state.
Miss Basketball Finalists for 2025
The Tennessee Miss Basketball Award is presented to the top female high school basketball player in the state. Like Mr. Basketball, the award recognizes excellence both on the court and in terms of leadership, sportsmanship, and character. The finalists for the 2025 Miss Basketball Award are:
- Destiny Thomas (Riverdale High School)
- Position: Guard
- College Commitment: University of Tennessee
- Key Stats: Thomas has been an unstoppable force for Riverdale this season, leading her team in scoring, rebounding, and assists. Known for her scoring ability, she can dominate from anywhere on the court, whether it be driving to the basket or hitting three-pointers. Thomas’ all-around game and leadership have propelled Riverdale to the top of the state rankings, and she is expected to make an immediate impact in college basketball.
- Mia Perry (Westview High School)
- Position: Forward
- College Commitment: Vanderbilt University
- Key Stats: Perry is one of the most well-rounded players in Tennessee, showcasing her ability to score, rebound, and play defense at a high level. Her physicality and basketball IQ have made her a standout in Westview’s dominant season. Perry’s leadership on and off the court has earned her the respect of her teammates and coaches, making her one of the most sought-after players in the state.
- Aaliyah Moore (Briarcrest Christian School)
- Position: Forward
- College Commitment: University of Arkansas
- Key Stats: Moore has been a dominant presence in the paint for Briarcrest this season. With her incredible rebounding and shot-blocking ability, she has been the cornerstone of her team’s defense. On offense, Moore is a force to be reckoned with, using her size and skill to finish around the rim and score efficiently. Her physicality and toughness make her a nightmare for opposing teams, and she has been a key part of Briarcrest’s success.
- Kaitlyn Johnson (Collierville High School)
- Position: Guard
- College Commitment: University of Mississippi
- Key Stats: Johnson has been a standout player for Collierville this season, combining a sharp shooting touch with a knack for getting to the basket. Her scoring ability, along with her leadership and hustle, has made her one of the best players in the state. Johnson’s ability to play both sides of the ball and her basketball IQ have made her an invaluable asset to her team.
The Impact of Mr. and Miss Basketball Finalists
The TSSAA Mr. and Miss Basketball Awards represent not only athletic excellence but also the values of hard work, dedication, and leadership. These finalists have demonstrated these qualities both on and off the court. From scoring big points to leading their teams through tough competition, they’ve earned the respect and admiration of their coaches, teammates, and communities.
For Tennessee basketball fans, the announcement of these finalists is a moment of celebration. The 2025 class showcases a diverse group of players who represent the best of the best in Tennessee high school basketball. As these young athletes prepare to take the next step in their basketball careers, they’ve already left a lasting mark on the state’s basketball legacy.