Each year, the prestigious Guy V. Lewis Award is presented to the top boys’ basketball player in the Houston area, honoring the legacy of legendary University of Houston coach Guy V. Lewis.
Lewis, who led the Cougars from 1956 to 1986, was instrumental in elevating college basketball, coaching some of the game’s greatest players and bringing national attention to Houston’s basketball scene.
Previous winners of the award include NBA stars and collegiate standouts such as Justise Winslow, De’Aaron Fox, Quentin Grimes, Tramon Mark, and Chris McDermott. In 2025, Bellaire’s Shelton Henderson won the honor before heading to the University of Miami. Henderson put together an outstanding senior campaign, averaging 22.3 points, 7.5 rebounds, four assists, three steals, and two blocks per game while shooting 69% from the floor. He also led Bellaire to the 6A Division I state championship game, the school’s first appearance in the title game.
For the 2026 season, 25 players have been nominated for the Guy V. Lewis Award. Defender High School Sports has followed four notable HISD contenders.
Anthony Avalos – Senior Forward, Madison
A versatile 6-foot-6 forward, Anthony Avalos has helped Madison go unbeaten in 5A Region III District 21 as the team looks to extend its playoff run. With his long frame and versatility, Avalos impacts the game both inside and out, using his ability to drive to the rim and knock down shots from long range.
“It feels good when people know you around the city for something you love,”
Anthony Avalos
“It feels good when people know you around the city for something you love,” said Avalos. My game has grown tremendously over the years. I can shoot the three at a high percentage and get downhill whenever I want. I thank my mom for bringing me to workouts with Cris Garson and my coach, John Mouton, as I continue to elevate my game.”
Eric “EJ” Beard – Sophomore Guard, Heights
An athletic 6-foot-2 point guard, Eric “EJ” Beard has already etched his name into Heights history, becoming one of the school’s few athletes to reach 2,000 career points. This season, Beard has been an offensive force, averaging 22.4 points and 3.2 assists per game while shooting 80% from the free-throw line.
“I feel great about my name being among the city’s best,” said Beard. “I put in a lot of work every day. My game has grown a lot over the past years. I’ve been on the grind day and night, 24/7. I want to thank God and my high school coaches, trainers, AAU coaches, and my parents.”
Aiden Mohammed – Senior Forward, Yates
An impactful 6-foot-4 forward, Aiden Mohammed has helped Yates to a 16-1 record in 4A Region III District 20. According to his Hudl account, Mohammed is averaging 15.3 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game.
“I feel honored to be recognized with such an award, given to players with great talent,” said Mohammed. “My game has grown so much over the years, from freshman to senior year. My hustle and drive to become a better player have improved each year. I thank God for putting me in this position, my Mom for always supporting me, and my high school head coach, Coach Wise, for pushing me to work even harder and become greater.”
Braylon Pete – Senior Guard, Washington
A dynamic 6-foot-3 point guard, Braylon Pete is a hardworking leader who can shoot, defend, and play with poise and control. This season, according to MaxPreps, Pete is averaging 15 points, 4.2 assists, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.9 steals per game. Pete currently holds an offer from Southwest Community Christian College.
“Being recognized among the city’s best is a blessing and a strong motivation,” said Pete. “My game has grown a lot over the years, especially mentally. I’m more confident now. I thank my coaches, family, and everyone who believed in me for pushing me to improve.”
As the 2026 season unfolds, these standout athletes will continue building their case for one of Houston basketball’s most prestigious honors, the Guy V. Lewis Award. The award not only recognizes individual excellence but also highlights Houston’s deep basketball tradition and the next generation of talent poised to make an impact at both the collegiate and professional levels.
Full List of 25 Guy V. Lewis Award Finalists
1. Reese Alston – junior, Second Baptist
2. Anthony Avalos – senior, Madison
3. Eric “EJ” Beard – sophomore, Heights
4. TroyNelle Belle – junior, Dickinson
5. Ife Bolaji – senior, Cy Springs
6. Adam Boyd – senior, Atascocita
7. Devan Brown – senior, Pearland
8. Bryson Campbell – sophomore, Angleton
9. Jachai Cantave – senior, Atascocita
10. Maddox Davis – junior, Kinkaid
11. Josh Goodwin – senior, Cy Ranch
12. Daniel Green – junior, Shadow Creek
13. Madden Hill – sophomore, Clear Springs
14. Yanni Ibikunle – senior, Randle
15. Jayden Jones – senior, Marshall
16. Damon Miles – junior, Clear Lake
17. Aiden Mohammed – senior, Yates
18. Alcin Mosely – junior, Crawford
19. Alim Olajuwon – junior, Episcopal
20. Je’Caryous Oliver – senior, LaMarque
21. Braylon Pete – senior, Washington
22. Trey Pinkard – junior, Grand Oaks
23. Nasir Price – senior, Seven Lakes
24. Isaiah Santos – junior, Seven Lakes
25. Landon Veal – junior, Houston Christian
