Eastside Catholic
Program Scout Report
Overview
Eastside Catholic has established itself as a premier basketball program in Washington state, competing as an independent school while maintaining elite-level competition. The program has built a reputation for developing high-caliber talent and preparing players for the next level through rigorous training and competitive scheduling.
Coaching Staff
Head coach Brent Merritt leads the program with a focus on fundamental development and character building. His coaching philosophy emphasizes both on-court excellence and academic achievement, creating well-rounded student-athletes who are prepared for collegiate competition.
Player Development
The program boasts an impressive track record with NBA alumni including LeBron James and Jayson Tatum, demonstrating its ability to develop elite-level talent. Eastside Catholic has consistently placed players in Division I programs and maintains strong relationships with college coaches nationwide, creating clear pathways for player advancement.
Culture & Academics
The school emphasizes academic excellence alongside athletic achievement, providing a comprehensive educational environment. Eastside Catholic maintains quality facilities and resources that support both basketball development and scholastic success.
Recruiting Outlook
Current standout Yabi Aklog, ranked #146 in the 2026 class, represents the program's continued ability to attract and develop top-tier talent. The coaching staff has built strong recruiting pipelines throughout the Pacific Northwest and beyond, positioning the program for sustained success in the coming years.
Analysis by PrepRadar Scouting Team
Coaching Staff
.png&w=256&q=75&dpl=dpl_F7ZtTBuVdD9E8X3Qa6PrcG43B1r2)
Brent Merritt
Head Coach
Coach Brent Merritt has served as the head boys basketball coach at Eastside Catholic since 2015, bringing extensive experience and a passion for developing young athletes. Prior to joining EC, he honed his coaching skills as an assistant coach at Garfield High School and with Seattle Public Schools, where he gained valuable experience working with talented players. A gifted athlete himself, Merritt attended high school in Oakland, California, where he earned high honors in both basketball and track and field before receiving a scholarship to continue his basketball career at the university level. Upon taking the helm at Eastside Catholic, Merritt expressed his commitment to "building a program at Eastside Catholic, expanding on the foundation of tradition and hard work that already exists at the school." His coaching philosophy centers on maintaining the school's established winning culture while fostering individual player development through dedication and disciplined training.
Achievements & Facilities
Notable Achievements
- • State Champions
NBA Alumni
Roster
Class of 2026
Tytan McNeal
Dylan Renwick
2 offers
Steven Sun
Rashawn Brantley
Anthony Williams
Committed: Iowa
Dash Lamebull-Ingram
1 offer
Micah Rouson
Kevelle Parkman
Simon Nlend
Yabi Aklog
📍 Sammamish
Committed: Oregon State