TWT SPORTS DESK- PUBLISHED FEB 15, 2026

*correction- Naugatuck players Kitchen,Smalls,Massicote,Black were mistakenly excluded. They have been added.

Waterbury-The 2025–26 Naugatuck Valley League (NVL) boys basketball season delivered one of the most competitive and talent-rich campaigns in recent memory. From explosive scoring nights to lockdown defensive performances and breakout underclassmen, the league showcased depth across every roster.

The TWT Sports Desk followed along all-season through our Game Night in the Brass City, Game film from Waterbury Public Schools, and in person attendances. We have watched every NVL team multiple times ( except Derby) and we are proud to announce the official nominees for the 2026 TWT SPORTS DESK NVL Boys Basketball Awards.

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🏆 Player of the Year

The league’s most impactful, consistent, and dominant all-around performers:

• C. Washington — Crosby
• J. Napiello — Woodland
• J. Jones — Holy Cross

• S. Steward — Wilby

• C. De La Cruz — Torrington

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🔒 Defensive Player of the Year

Honoring the players who anchor defenses, guard the toughest assignments, and change games without the ball:

• C. Washington — Crosby
• J. Napiello — Woodland
• R. Kenney — Woodland
• J. Davis — Watertown
• A. Nealy — Wilby

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🎯 Point Guard of the Year

Floor generals who control tempo, distribute, and lead:

• J. Napiello — Woodland
• M. Fox — Wilby
• E. Clement — Holy Cross

• J. Davis — Watertown
• J. Nhakome — Ansonia

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⚡ Wing of the Year

Versatile perimeter players impacting both ends of the floor:

1. S. Garner — Wilby
2. J. Jones — Holy Cross
3. C. O’Toole — Watertown
4. O. Fenn — Torrington
5. N. Kryrshenko — Seymour
6. M. Kichen- Naugatuck

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🧱 Paint Player of the Year

The interior forces controlling the glass, protecting the rim, and finishing inside:

1. C. De La Cruz — Torrington
2. C. Washington — Crosby
3. A. Davis — Holy Cross
4. J. Platt — Watertown

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🌟 Underclassman of the Year

The future of the NVL, already making major impact:

1. S. Steward — Wilby
2. J. Robinson — WCA
3. M. McNeil — Ansonia
4. J. Benjamin- Crosby
5. R. High- Wilby

Senior of the Year

Going out in Style

1. C. Washington- Crosby
2. E. Smalls – Naugatuck
3. C. De La Cruz – Torrington
4. J. Napiello – Woodland

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🛡️ All-Defense Team Nominees

The toughest defenders across the league, recognized for grit, discipline, and game-changing stops:

• J. Napiello — Woodland
• J. Davis — Watertown
• O. Fenn — Torrington
• A. Nealy — Wilby
• C. Washington — Crosby
• C. De La Cruz — Torrington
• S. Barnes — Wilby
• R. Kenney — Woodland
• M. Robinson — WCA
• J. Jackson — Crosby
• C. O’Toole — Watertown
• C. Dagata — St. Paul
• A. Davis — Holy Cross
• B. Brooks — Holy Cross
• A. Sumler — Kennedy
• J. Jones — Holy Cross
• M. Weaver — WCA
• R. High — Wilby
• O Massicote- Naugatuck
• A. Colon — WCA
• D. Roscoe — Holy Cross
• O Black- Naugatuck
• S. Steward — Wilby

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Final Word

The NVL continues to prove itself as one of Connecticut’s premier basketball leagues, producing high-level talent, intense rivalries, and unforgettable moments. With playoff basketball approaching, these nominees represent the best of what the league has to offer this season.

Stay locked in with The Waterbury Times Sports Desk for official award winners, All-NVL teams, and postseason coverage.

Waterbury High School Sports News