The Waterbury Times Sports Desk\Published Jan 19, 2026

Waterbury-As the NVL basketball season barrels toward its most important stretch, separation is finally beginning to show. Some teams are surging, others are hanging on, and every night now carries playoff implications. With rematches looming and rivalries heating up, the TWT Sports Desk NVL Power Rankings reflect not just records—but momentum, eye test, and how teams are trending right now.

Wildcats Snap 14-Game Skid, Dominate Crosby 95–64 at Reggie O’Brien Gym

Here’s where things stand.

1. Woodland (10–0)

Woodland remains the class of the NVL. Undefeated, disciplined, and consistent on both ends of the floor, the Hawks have answered every challenge so far. Until someone knocks them off, they sit firmly at No. 1 in our rankings for the 3rd consecutive week.

2. Wilby (8–2)

Wilby has reasserted itself as a legitimate title contender. The Wildcats are playing with confidence, depth, and purpose, and recent performances show a team peaking at the right time. Few teams want to see them in a rematch.

3. Torrington (7–2)

Torrington continues to impress with physical play and strong execution. They’ve taken care of business and remain one of the most dangerous teams heading into the second half of NVL play.

4. Holy Cross (8–3)

Holy Cross sits quietly near the top, doing what Holy Cross does—winning games. Battle-tested and well-coached, the Crusaders are built for February basketball and remain a tough out for anyone.

5. Watertown (7–3)

Watertown has shown flashes of being elite. When they’re locked in, they can compete with anyone in the league. Consistency will determine how high their ceiling is down the stretch.

6. Ansonia (7–3)

Ansonia continues to grind out wins and stay relevant in a crowded middle tier. They’ve proven they belong in the conversation and could rise quickly with a strong run.

The Waterbury Times-NVL Boys Basketball Power Rankings: Woodland Remains Perfect as League Race Tightens

7. St. Paul (7–3)

St. Paul is solid, steady, and competitive every night. While they haven’t separated themselves yet, they’re very much in the mix and dangerous if they catch momentum.

8. Crosby (6–5)

Crosby has had an up-and-down season but remains one of the most unpredictable teams in the NVL. With the right adjustments, the Bulldogs could still make noise late.

9. Naugatuck (5–4)

Naugatuck is hovering just above .500 and searching for consistency. The talent is there, but execution in close games will determine whether they climb or slide.

10. WCA (4–6)

WCA rounds out the rankings as they continue to climb out of the early hole they started off in. The 3x defending NVL Champions have the leaders to get the job done

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What’s Next
With division rematches approaching, these rankings are far from locked in. Rivalry games, road tests, and late-season pressure will reshape the NVL landscape quickly. One strong week—or one bad one—can change everything.

The second half starts now.

Follow the Waterbury Times for game recaps, film breakdowns, midseason awards, and full NVL coverage throughout the season.

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