O’Dea High School 2026 Basketball Playoff Preview

By Kyle Granlund

SEATTLE- As the 2025–26 high school basketball season comes toward the Metro League playoffs, the O’Dea Fighting Irish are looking confident and prepared. The Fighting Irish have put together a solid season and are hoping that their hard work pays off when it matters most. 

O’Dea has compiled a strong regular season record with key wins over Metro League opponents, including Seattle Prep, Eastside Catholic, and Rainier Beach. These wins show the team’s ability to finish games and maintain consistency across different styles of opponents. Competing in a strong league has helped prepare the Fighting Irish for the challenges of playoff basketball. 

One of O’Dea’s biggest strengths is how well they play as a team. The offense shares the ball and looks for good shots instead of forcing plays, while the defense focuses on staying disciplined and communicating. This balance has helped them stay competitive in close games throughout the season and limit mistakes. 

Another important part of O’Dea’s success has been their ability to stay composed during tough stretches of games. When momentum shifts, the Fighting Irish have shown they can stay focused and respond without panicking. This mental toughness will be important in the playoffs, where pressure is higher and every possession matters. 

Depth could also play a role in O’Dea’s playoff run. Having multiple players ready to contribute allows the team to keep energy high and maintain intensity on both ends of the court. This can be especially important in close games or when facing physical opponents. 

The playoffs will not be easy, as O’Dea could face familiar league opponents that know their style of play. To be successful, the Fighting Irish will need to limit turnovers, rebound consistently, and stay focused in late game situations. Playing smart and disciplined basketball will be key. 

Overall, O’Dea enters the 2026 playoffs with momentum and confidence. If they continue to play with effort, stay locked in, and trust their team chemistry, the Fighting Irish have a strong chance to make a deep playoff run and finish the season on a high note.