Madison-Ridgeland Academy
Program Scout Report
Overview
Madison-Ridgeland Academy operates as an independent prep basketball program under the guidance of head coach Richard Duease. The school maintains a focused approach to player development with a current roster of 15 tracked players, positioning itself within the competitive landscape of preparatory basketball.
Coaching Staff
Richard Duease leads the program as head coach, bringing his experience to bear in developing young talent at the prep level. His leadership shapes the program's direction and establishes the foundation for player growth both on and off the court.
Player Development
The academy maintains a structured development pipeline with its current roster of 15 tracked players representing the program's commitment to nurturing basketball talent. The school focuses on preparing student-athletes for the next level while emphasizing fundamental skill development and competitive experience.
Culture & Academics
As an independent institution, Madison-Ridgeland Academy operates with flexibility in scheduling and program structure. The school emphasizes the dual commitment to academic excellence and athletic achievement that defines quality prep basketball programs.
Recruiting Outlook
With 15 players currently being tracked, the program demonstrates its ability to attract and retain talent within its independent framework. Coach Duease's leadership provides stability for continued recruitment efforts and program development as the academy works to establish its reputation in prep basketball circles.
Analysis by PrepRadar Scouting Team
Coaching Staff
Richard Duease
Head Coach
Richard Duease stands as Mississippi's most decorated basketball coach, currently in his 51st and final season leading Madison-Ridgeland Academy's boys basketball program. The 74-year-old coaching legend began his illustrious career in 1975 as the girls' coach at Manchester Academy in Yazoo City before establishing an unprecedented dynasty that spans nearly five decades. Duease holds the distinction of being Mississippi's winningest coach in history with over 1,879 career victories. His trophy case includes an remarkable 41 state championships and a MAIS record 15 Overall titles, comprising 13 boys and two girls championships. Most recently, he captured his 41st state title with a thrilling 38-33 victory over defending champion Jackson Prep for the Class 6A state championship. The veteran coach's excellence has been consistently recognized throughout his career, earning MAIS Coach of the Year honors an unprecedented 30 times. As Duease approaches retirement after the 2025-26 season, he leaves behind an unmatched legacy of sustained excellence in Mississippi high school basketball.
Achievements & Facilities
Notable Achievements
- • State Champions
Roster
Class of 2026
Graham Kennedy
1 offer
Sutton Mertz
Will Bizot
Foster Smitherman
1 offer
Kaden Ward
Dylan Dixon
1 offer
Drayden Martin-young
Baylor Bates
Evan Carr
Benjamin Goff
Committed: New York
Jack Dalton
Committed: Campbell