The excitement is building for the 2026 Cincinnati High School Sports Awards, presented by The Enquirer! The annual live show is set for June at Princeton High School, and this year's format is getting a fresh, streamlined update to celebrate our local stars more efficiently.
To make the most of the evening, the live show will focus squarely on honoring the winners, who will be announced weeks in advance. This shift maintains the tradition of recognizing top athletes from both sides of the river while ensuring a dynamic and time-conscious ceremony. While tickets won't be distributed, winners will need to RSVP to secure their spot in the spotlight.
All finalists are invited to an exclusive pre-show reception—a perfect opportunity to enjoy light refreshments, connect with fellow elite athletes, visit sponsor booths, receive certificates, and strike a pose on the red carpet. A special group photo is scheduled about 15 minutes before the main event begins, and finalists are encouraged to stay for an inspiring keynote address. For families who can't make the early reception, a 30-minute post-show window will offer the same fantastic activities (excluding the group photo).
Stay tuned for a separate announcement regarding the keynote speaker and the finalized date. Remember, this prestigious awards show is a distinct event separate from the all-city teams and athlete of the week recognitions.
Now, let's meet the standout winter sports nominees for 2026. These athletes have demonstrated exceptional skill and dedication on the court and the mat, representing the future of Cincinnati-area athletics.
In Boys Basketball, the nominees showcasing their talent are: Grady Barber (Williamsburg); Jason Caimano (Cincinnati Hills Christian Academy); A’mire Gill (Princeton); Antwan Hinton (Taft); Max Joiner (Summit Country Day); Isaiah Mack-Russell (Winton Woods); Chase Martin (Loveland); Zevin Sesslar (Waynesville); Eli Stroud (Badin); Josh Tyson (Lakota West); Antonio White (Deer Park); and Kellen Wiley (Wyoming).
The Boys Wrestling nominees ready to pin down the award are: Anthony Blaackar (Lloyd Memorial); Anthony Coppola (Ryle); Austin Davie (Campbell County); Finn Louden (Conner); Amontae Lowe (Newport); and Athens McGillis (Covington Catholic).
For Girls Basketball, the elite nominees are: Lauren Bain (Seton); Gabby Chadwell (Milford); Braelyn Even (Badin); Katie Fox (Lakota West); Anna Habra (Mason); McKenzie Jones (Springboro); Yaya Parrish (Western Hills); Bella Rogers (Loveland); Bella Swisshelm (West Clermont); Erin Thomas (Princeton); Mia Vieth (Mount Notre Dame); and Samaya Wilkins (Purcell Marian).
The legacy of excellence continues, exemplified by past moments like Princeton's Heaven Sneed celebrating a state semifinal victory—a reminder of the high-level competition and passion these awards honor. Congratulations to all the nominees on a phenomenal winter season!