In an era dominated by high school transfers and constant program changes, Perry High School's superstar 6-foot-8 senior Koa Peat has remained loyal to his roots, and in doing so, has carved out a legendary high school career that will be remembered for decades. Peat is not only the top unsigned senior in the country, but also a beacon of consistency, leadership and championship-level dominance.
A consensus five-star recruit and Top 10 ranked player nationally by everyone, Peat has led Perry High School to four consecutive State Championships - winning (3) consecutive Open Division State Championships in the process - solidifying himself as the greatest player in Arizona high school basketball history. Most impressively, Peat played through a fractured hand during this year’s state playoffs - a testament to his toughness and will to win, and ultimately guiding his team to yet another state title.
Peat’s remarkable senior season and overall high school career earned him another prestigious honor of being named the 2025 Gatorade Player of the Year in Arizona. He will also represent the state and the West on a national stage in next week’s McDonald’s All-American Game in Brooklyn, New York - showcasing his talents alongside the nation’s elite.
Despite his accolades, Peat has yet to announce his college decision — making him the most highly-coveted unsigned prospect in the country. He has narrowed his list down to five programs - Arizona, Arizona State, Houston, Baylor and Texas. Each of these programs offers Peat a unique opportunity — whether it’s staying close to home at Arizona or ASU, or taking his talents to a national powerhouse like Baylor or Houston. His decision is expected to have a significant ripple effect on the college basketball landscape. All eyes will be on Peat at next week's All-American Game, and throughout the spring until he makes his decision.
What makes Peat’s journey so special is not just his talent, which includes a polished post game, perimeter versatility, elite rebounding and a true leadership presence; but the way he’s handled the spotlight. He stayed at Perry HS for all four years - a rarity among top-tier recruits and proving that loyalty and development within one system can still produce elite results. He’s become a role model for student-athletes in Arizona, showing that you can “do it your way” and still reach the highest levels of the sport.
As Koa Peat prepares to take the next step in his basketball career, his high school legacy is already secure, and wherever he ends up at the college level, one thing is certain — he’s just getting started.
