Phenom Hoops made the trip to Oak Hill Academy, tucked deep in the breathtaking natural landscape of Southwest Virginia. There may be no better time to visit than October, when the changing seasons drape the mountains in vibrant fall foliage. The journey up to Mouth of Wilson features some of Virginia’s highest peaks and the winding path of the New River—one of the oldest rivers in the world—snaking alongside the mountain roads. It’s a peaceful, scenic ride that instantly tells you: this place is far removed from distraction.
At Oak Hill, the mantra is simple—“Books and Basketball.” There are no bright city lights, no social scenes, no urban chaos. For the high-level player seeking focus, this is exactly the point. While competing programs may flaunt more modern facilities, dorms, or weight rooms, Oak Hill’s strength lies in something you cannot replicate—tradition. This is the “Mecca” of high school basketball, home to 38 NBA alumni and built upon the legendary legacy of Coach Steve Smith.
Under Coach Smith, Oak Hill captured nine National Championships, a run of excellence that redefined high school basketball dominance:
1993: 36-0
1994: 36-1
1999: 31-0
2001: 33-0
2004: 38-0
2005: 34-2
2007: 40-1
2012: 44-0
2016: 45-1
Since Coach Smith’s retirement—his name now immortalized on the court—Oak Hill has faced the challenge of maintaining its elite stature, especially in the wake of COVID and the rapidly changing world of NIL, prep programs, and new “brand-name” basketball schools. But first-year head coach John Zito is embracing the task with clear vision.
In today’s climate, options for elite players are endless. But at Oak Hill, the selling point remains powerful: academic focus, player development, and total dedication. There are no shortcuts. Player prospects can refine their classroom habits, develop physically in the weight room, and, most importantly, spend countless hours sharpening their game against high-level competition—without outside noise.
Parents sending their sons across the country take comfort in this environment. At Oak Hill, everything centers around purpose. No distractions. No excuses. Just growth.
During our recent scrimmage visit, it was evident—while this group may not yet be in national title conversations, Coach Zito has assembled a talented nucleus. The rebuilding of a national powerhouse is underway. Here are some of the standouts shaping Oak Hill’s next chapter:
Top Standouts
6’6” 2026 – Ethan Mgbako (Somerset, NJ)
A four-star prospect committed to Vanderbilt, Mgbako could emerge as the vocal leader of this squad. With a strong 6’6” frame and remarkable length, he brings energy, toughness, and two-way impact. Defensively, he disrupts everything; offensively, he scores from all three levels—particularly shining in the mid-range. His ability to play off two feet, control pace, and elevate into smooth jumpers makes him a matchup problem and Oak Hill’s most complete player.
6’4” 2027 – LJ Smith (Lincolnton, NC)
LJ Smith is a deadly perimeter shooter—when he gets rolling, it can get ugly fast for the opposition. Cool, calm, and composed, he has the ability to “25-piece” teams in a hurry. At times, he may even be too unselfish, bypassing clean looks. But make no mistake—Smith will be the guy for Oak Hill this season. As he embraces aggression, his star will rise.
6’11” 2026 – Kuol Deng Kuol (Savannah, GA)
Kuol may ultimately be the X-factor. With exceptional length, mobility, and a hunger to improve, he’s poised to anchor both ends. He finishes with either hand around the rim, runs the floor hard, and shows signs of becoming a high-impact rim protector and rebounder. As his confidence grows, so will Oak Hill’s ceiling.