Cushing Academy

Ashburnham, MA

NEPSAC

19 players

Program Scout Report

Overview

Cushing Academy operates as a respected New England prep program within the competitive NEPSAC landscape, building its reputation through consistent player development and academic excellence. The program has established itself as a legitimate pathway for student-athletes seeking to elevate their games while maintaining strong educational standards.

Coaching Staff

Head coach James Cormier leads the program with a focus on fundamental skill development and character building. His coaching philosophy emphasizes both athletic excellence and academic achievement, creating an environment where players can maximize their potential on and off the court.

Player Development

The program maintains a solid track record of placing players at the collegiate level, with current standouts including 2027 prospect Theo Edema ranked #51 nationally and 2026 guard Ryan Moesch at #141. Cushing's development pipeline focuses on preparing players for the next level through rigorous training and competitive NEPSAC scheduling.

Culture & Academics

The academy combines strong academic standards with quality basketball facilities, creating an environment where student-athletes can thrive. The school's commitment to excellence extends beyond basketball, fostering well-rounded development for all students.

Recruiting Outlook

With 19 tracked players currently on roster and emerging talents like Edema and Moesch leading the way, Cushing appears well-positioned for continued success. The program's ability to identify and develop talent while maintaining academic standards should continue attracting quality recruits looking for a comprehensive prep experience.

Analysis by PrepRadar Scouting Team

Coaching Staff

James Cormier

Head Coach

Tenure: 15 years

James Cormier serves as Head Boys' Basketball Coach at Cushing Academy, bringing a wealth of experience as both a former college player and Division I assistant coach. After spending two years at Proctor Academy, Cormier played collegiately at Le Moyne College before transitioning into coaching. He began his coaching career under legendary coach John Carroll at Northfield Mount Hermon, where he developed his foundational understanding of the game. Throughout his career, Cormier has held positions at prestigious institutions including Dartmouth and Rutgers University, gaining valuable experience at the Division I level. His coaching journey also includes a role as Associate Camp Director at Mid-Cape Hoop School, where he honed his skills in player development. Having grown up around basketball with his father being a longtime figure in the sport, Cormier brings both deep basketball knowledge and a unique coaching philosophy to Cushing Academy, continuing the program's tradition of success while implementing his own distinctive approach to developing student-athletes.