Discover
Arizona Small Ball Podcast
Arizona Small Ball Podcast
Author: Jeff Luera/Reyes Herrera
Subscribed: 7Played: 109Subscribe
Share
© 422268
Description
The Arizona small ball podcast where we discuss one of the hidden gems in Arizona, high school basketball. Here we cover Sports News but everything is small ball. As coaches in the Valley we understand that these guys don’t get enough love or recognition and we’re here to advocate for them and show em some love. We talk about scores coaches and teams all at Arizona small ball.
224 Episodes
Reverse
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, Jeff and Reyes break down the boys teams that are hitting their stride at exactly the right moment. From defensive execution to shot-making, chemistry, and toughness, these teams are trending up as the season tightens.Horizon Honors — CONNECTED & CONFIDENT 🔥Doing all the little things rightGreat help defense and strong closeoutsConstant communication on defenseSetting lots of ball screensMaking smart passes and decisionsPlaying together with confidenceLed by Hewitt, Wallace, and PardaziTeam shooting 34% from threeHewitt at 37%, others right behind at 35–34%Scottsdale Christian Academy — PICK & ROLL MASTERY 🎯Cash, Huddy, and Dom all shooting it wellHuddy shooting 44% from threeHit an insane buzzer-beater to end the 1st quarter vs RanchoOffensively:Run pick-and-roll extremely wellSpain action off it to free HuddyDom makes great reads and can score off the dribbleDefensively:Threw a Box-and-1 vs RanchoEnough weapons around Huddy to punish coverageGlendale Prep— ROLE CLARITY & CUTTING 🧠Led by Daniel and TalanDaniel: 14 pts, 5 ast, 5 reb, 4 st, 30% from threeTalan: 16 pts, shooting 40% from three, 59 made threes on the seasonJumped out fast vs NVCAConstant cutting and screeningMarcus Edwards and Dylan Lincoln are vital pieces who fit perfectlyPima — TOUGH, FAST, AND PHYSICAL 💪Consistent transition bucketsGuards like Thompson and Corona pushing paceScores in the paintOut-rebounds opponentsMentally toughOne of the most solid defensive teams in small ballHayden — SIZE, ZONE & SECOND CHANCES 🧱Physical 1–3–1 zone with great sizeAggressive offensivelyPass-and-cut offenseLooking to get the ball inside to HongKey Engine:Garner: 17 ppg, 8 rpg, 3 apg, 3 spg30 rebounds per game as a teamTons of second-chance pointsPalo Verde — STYLE PROOF 😤Ultra-aggressive identityHeld Ben Franklin to 32% shootingBen Franklin shot 19% from three, Palo Verde 13%Palo only took 8 threes compared to Ben’s 27Palo shot 58% from twoThis team can win:In track meetsIn backyard brawlsIn cage matchesOn the moon 🌕 — good luckPayson — GAMERS 🔥🔥Huge week with wins over Gilbert, San Tan, Snowflake, and IronwoodElite shot challengesActive handsOutstanding help-the-helper defenseFinishes possessionsCreates extra possessionsPressing with discipline:Never out of controlUses pressure to force turnovers, then gets setDepth & toughness:Omar, Manny, Dane, Peyton, plus bench contributors ready to goSignature play:Ironwood has a 3-on-1 breakOmar hustles back, walls upThree Payson players crash back to reboundPayson comes up with the ballThat’s who they are.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, Jeff and Reyes break down the girls teams that are finding their rhythm at the perfect moment. From defensive intensity to improved guard play and balanced scoring, these programs are trending up as the season tightens.St. John’s — JUICE & BALANCE 🔥Playing with energy and confidenceGuards have improved dramaticallySharp, intentional offensive executionCreate second chances and win 50/50 ballsDefense has been impressive all seasonTeam Identity:Extremely balancedAveraging 19 steals per gameNot always the most efficient, but very toughPage — PLAYMAKERS STEPPING UP 📈Franklin playing at a high levelStrong contributions from Savannah and BrownTsingine is the difference makerPlaying with confidence and purposePhoenix Country Day — TOUGH & COMPOSED 💪Madison Gordon leading the wayShot 3-for-4 from three in the 1st quarter and early 2ndDefends well and scores just enough to stay in every gameExcellent ball movement vs pressureKey Moment:Against San Carlos, 4 minutes into the 3rdMultiple passes against pressureEnds with a Madison three at the top — composure on displayPima — AGGRESSION BOTH WAYS 🔥Led by AshbyHyper-aggressive on offense and defensePushes the ball constantlyCompletely overwhelmed Leading Edge with pressure and paceRound Valley — FRONTCOURT PRESENCE 🧱Physical and competitiveConsistently controls the glassTrending up late in the seasonAsh Fork — PRESSURE & PRODUCTION 😤Led by Isabella AcostaSupported by Vazquez, Staples, and NixonAveraging 35 rebounds per game24 steals per gameAcosta finished with 11 stealsDefensive Identity:Aggressive zonePressure up topTook Salome out of their interior dominance
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, Jeff and Reyes break down a growing trend across Arizona small-ball basketball — a LOT of teams are playing zone. The guys dive into who’s thriving against it, who’s weaponizing it, and what it’s revealing about teams across 1A–3A.⸻Fountain Hills — Different Right Now 🔥 • Defending extremely well • Playing confident, connected basketball⸻Palo Verde — CONFIDENT & ATHLETIC 💪 • Shooting 43% from three • Playing with swagger and trust • Zone defense clicking at a high level⸻Bourgade Catholic — ZONE + POISE 🧠vs Northwest Christian • Northwest struggled to make plays late • Bourgade stayed true to their identity • Aggressive zone defense + confidence • Led by Malik and Rushing • Created good looks using double stagger screensvs ALA Ironwood • Bourgade went up 20+ • Ironwood struggled to generate quality looks • Zone pressure dictated the entire game⸻Gilbert Christian — KNOWING WHO YOU ARE 🎯 • Offense led by Burke • Hit 39 three-pointers vs Northwest • High percentage of their threes come from the corner⸻Valley Christian over Coolidge Thatcher & Snowflake — ELITE DEFENSE 🔒 • Controlled the matchup • Holding teams to 50 points per game • Scoring 72 points per game • Complete teams on both ends⸻Scottsdale Christian vs NVCA — HOOPERS SHOWING OUT 🏀 • Cash • Dom • HuddyAll three playing at a very high level right now⸻Rock Point vs Cibecue — SCORING PUNCH 💥 • Begay, Begay, Yazzie, and James • Combine for 60 points per game • Offensive firepower on full display⸻Coolidge over Florence — RIVALRY GRIT ⚔️ • Preston Dees lead the way • Florence is tough and well-coached • Physical rivalry game with a great atmosphere⸻Horizon Honors over San Carlos • Horizon withstands a 22-point 4th quarter from San Carlos • Composure late seals the win⸻Pima over Pusch Ridge — MENTALITY GAME 🧠 • Played fast • Ripped off 8 straight transition points in the 3rd quarter • Screened well and punished mistakes⸻1A NOTES 🔥 • Fort Thomas is #4 in the open!! • Joseph City riding a 7-game winning streak⸻LISTEN NOW 🎙️Zone defenses are everywhere — but not everyone is ready. Jeff and Reyes break down who’s adjusting, who’s exposed, and what it all means moving forward in Arizona small-ball basketball.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, Jeff and Reyes break down the teams and players that really showed out last week across Arizona small-ball basketball. From dominant weeks to statement wins, this episode highlights who’s trending up and why it matters.⸻Fountain Hills — BIG WEEK 🔥 • 🏆 3 wins in one week • Handled half-court zone pressure and trapping • Defended the pick-and-roll at a high level • Held firm against post mismatchesKey Players: • ⭐ #10 Smith (guard) • 💪 #32 Smith (post) • ⚡ #3 Taliyah — downhill attacker, strong handle, confident shot⸻Phoenix Country Day — Statement Week 🔥 • Dominant performances across the board • ⭐ Elsa Termansen: 27 points, 22 rebounds • Controlled the glass and dictated tempo⸻Malc — Rolling Right Now 🚀 • Led by Tanner Banks • Balanced scoring with 4 other players averaging ~7 points • Aggressive, athletic guards creating chaos up top⸻Chinle — OT WIN OVER SHOW LOW 😤 • Gritty overtime victory • Defensive toughness and composure late⸻Show Low — Still a Factor 👀 • Despite the OT loss, had a good week • This team will matter come February⸻St. John’s — ON FIRE 🔥🔥 • Momentum building fast • Playing confident, connected basketball⸻Page — HERE THEY COME 📈 • Trending up at the right time • Back in the conversation⸻Tuba City — Still Steady 💪 • Continues to compete at a high level⸻St. John Paul II — Winning Their Way 🧠 • Playing well within their system • Aggressive zone and full-court pressure • Still waiting on a true measuring-stick game⸻Round Valley — Frontcourt DOMINANCE 🧱 • ⭐ Kelci Walker & Addison Poston: • 47 points combined • 21 rebounds combined • 💪 34 team rebounds⸻Duncan vs Cicero Prep • Tough, physical small-school battle⸻Fort Thomas — Handles Business 💪 • Strong win over Salome • Consistency and depth showing⸻SNOWFLAKE — LOUD STATEMENT ❄️🔥 • Another reminder of who runs the room⸻Pima vs Pusch Ridge • STATEMENT WIN BY THE ROUGHRIDERS!!⸻LISTEN NOW 🎙️From dominant weeks to momentum builders, Jeff and Reyes break down who showed out — and who’s building something real heading into the heart of the season.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, Jeff and Reyes break down a loaded stretch of games across small ball — focusing on how games were decided, who had answers late, and what we’ve learned about these teams moving forward.⸻Mogollon vs Fort ThomasFort Thomas controlled this one from start to finish, leading by around 9 points most of the game and stretching it to 11 in the third quarter.Mogollon stayed alive through: • 💪 Offensive rebounds • 🎯 Timely three-pointersThey clawed back late with stops and free throws, but Fort Thomas always had an answer. • 🔥 Johnson, Wesley, Bryce, and Cody proved too much down the stretch • ⚡ Fort Thomas pushes the ball relentlessly and never lets you get comfortable⸻Joseph City vs Valley SandersJoseph City put on a defensive clinic, holding Valley Sanders to 18 second-half points. • 🧱 Defense set the tone all night • ⭐ Audrey: 29 points, 15 rebounds, 2 assists, 9 steals • 💪 Amber: 16 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 stealsNotable Milestone: • 🎉 Both Neils reached 1,000 career points⸻Phoenix Christian vs RanchoRancho separated late with an awesome fourth quarter, outscoring PC 19–8 to pull away for a 53–42 win. • 🧱 Rancho dominated the glass 44–18 • 🎯 Shot 40% from three (PC shot 20%) • 💥 Mushawar and Brown: 21 points combined, 14 and 13 reboundsLooking Ahead: • 📅 Jan 19 looms as a big test • Coach C has this group playing at a very high level⸻Round Valley @ PimaThe difference was the opening stretch — Pima came out rolling. • ⚖️ Extremely balanced scoring • 🧠 8 different players contributed offensively (rare at this level)Round Valley positives: • 🎯 Shot the ball well • 💪 Rebounded wellDifference-maker: • 🚨 18 turnovers proved costlyBig Picture:As the schedule toughens, Pima looks like a team that will be in the mix late in the year.⸻Page @ Window RockA massive week for Page, picking up wins over Chinle and Window Rock. • 📈 Right back in the regional conversationCerebro Simulation (last 6 games): • 4–2 finish projected • Wins over Monument (2x), Ganado, Chinle • Losses to Tuba City and Window RockProjected regional finish: • 6–4 in region play⸻Seton Catholic vs Valley ChristianEarly on, Valley went with an aggressive trapping zone. • 🎯 Seton responded by shooting it well • 💥 5 threes in the first half • DiScala hit 2 earlySecond-half adjustments: • 🚀 Goncharoff and Phillips attacked the rim • Goncharoff hit 2 big threes and had a strong overall gameDefensive breakdowns both ways: • Valley left DiScala too much space • Seton had weak-side lapses allowing Ellie Phillips uncontested drivesKey Players & Moments: • ⭐ Boelher showed versatility — size, length, and perimeter scoring • 🔥 DiScala scored 20+ • 🔥 Ellie Phillips finished with 24Final-minute chaos: • Stops on both sides • Ellie Phillips steal → turnover • Multiple empty possessions • Ellie seals it late at the free throw line
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, Jeff and Reyes break down a loaded slate of boys games across 1A–3A, diving into what actually decided each matchup. From execution and defensive game plans to rebounding dominance and shot-making, this episode is all about separating noise from reality.⸻Valley Lutheran vs The Gregory SchoolValley Lutheran executed at a high level offensively, especially in transition and within their half-court sets. They consistently played through second and third reads, generating clean looks — and they made them count. • 🧨 JoJo Sayegh explodes for 38 points • 🎯 9 made threes • 🏀 Game-winnerBurning Question:If you’re a Flames fan… how are you feeling right now? 👀🔥⸻Hayden vs Fort ThomasHayden struggled to keep pace with Fort Thomas, as the Apaches controlled the game with depth and physicality. • 💪 Five Fort Thomas players in double figures • 🔥 Wilson & Dosela combine for 42 points • 🎯 Dosela shoots 45% from three • 🧱 53 team rebounds (22 offensive)Fort Thomas imposed their will early — and never let up.⸻PCD vs ALAThe pregame storyline was ALA’s toughness and physicality. After the game, the narrative flipped. • 🛑 PCD’s defense was the difference • Length and physicality disrupted ALA’s sets • Constant deflections, bumped cutters, and contested shots • PCD competed for all 32 minutes • ⭐ JD Jones leads all scorers with 18This was a defensive statement from Country Day.⸻Fountain Hills vs San Tan CharterSan Tan’s pressure was effective early, especially with Jachin at the top creating chaos and middle penetration. • ⚡ San Tan scored early off press and tempo • Fountain Hills countered in the half court • Anytime Wade touched the ball, good things happened for FHKey Difference: • 🚀 Transition points • San Tan mixed coverages: full-court press, man, half-court zone • Constant pace changes kept Fountain Hills guessing⸻Valley Christian vs Seton CatholicA chess match from the opening tip. • 🎯 Valley face-guarded KJ with Max and Moose • 🛑 Seton doubled Colby • Valley handled the pressure better and took what was givenKey Moments: • 💪 Valley dominated the offensive glass • 🔥 Max slicing through the lane and finding Morganfield • 🎯 Calvin knocks down a corner three late in the 3rd • Shots falling opened everything up⸻Palo Verde vs CoolidgeZone vs zone. Adjustments decided this one. • 🏃 Coolidge scored early in transition • 🛑 Palo Verde slowed the game in the second half • Forced Coolidge into tough half-court shotsThen the floodgates opened: • 🔥 Rashad hits 5 threes • 🎯 Team hits 7 threes in the second half • 📊 Palo Verde goes up 45–29 with 4 minutes leftBurning Question:Have we overlooked Palo Verde? 👀🔥
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, Jeff and Reyes break down the burning questions surrounding key girls matchups across 1A–3A. From pace control and defensive efficiency to youth vs experience, these games will be decided by details.3A MATCHUPSValley Christian @ Seton Catholic — Friday, Jan 9Burning Questions:Can Seton Catholic’s youth stay poised against Valley Christian’s style of play?Valley Christian ranks #6 in offensive efficiency in 3ASeton relies heavily on youth: 3 freshmen and 1 sophomoreBowler, DePuccio, Iber, and Di Scala combine for 32 of 48 pointsSeton averages 17 turnovers per gameCan Valley Christian find rhythm against a strong young defense?Seton Catholic is #9 in defensive efficiencyPage @ Window Rock — Saturday, Jan 10Burning Questions:Who can get the most stops?Both teams are near the bottom of 3A defensive efficiencyBoth are Top 12 in offensive efficiency across small ballWindow Rock: #1Page: #12This is a huge game for Page, currently last in the 3A North2A MATCHUPSRound Valley @ Pima — Tuesday, Jan 6Burning Questions:Can Round Valley limit Pima’s transition scoring?Can Round Valley’s bigs stay productive against Pima’s size?Matchups to watch: Russell vs AshbyGuard play could decide everything in this matchupPhoenix Christian @ Rancho — Friday, Jan 9Burning Questions:Can Phoenix Christian get their offense going against Rancho’s pressure?Pressure, zone, and constant activityRancho ranks #3 in defensive efficiency in 2ACan Phoenix Christian turn this into a Brown one-man show?1A MATCHUPSValley Sanders @ Joseph City — Wednesday, Jan 7Burning Questions:Can Valley Sanders handle and play through the pressure?Joseph City ranks #4 in defensive efficiency in 1ACan Joseph City sustain their zone defense against a strong shooting Sanders team?Sanders ranks Top 10 in offensive efficiency (small ball)Fort Thomas @ Mogollon — Friday, Jan 9Burning Questions:Can Mogollon control the pace of the game?Best in half-court, grind-it-out style32 rebounds per gameStruggle in transition22 turnovers per game and limited shootingCan Fort Thomas apply enough pressure to make Mogollon uncomfortable?LISTEN NOW 🎙️These matchups will be decided by pace, pressure, and poise. Jeff and Reyes break down the questions that will shape girls basketball this week across Arizona small ball.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, Jeff and Reyes break down the burning questions that will decide key matchups across 1A–3A. From efficiency battles to rebounding wars and pace control, these are the details that will swing games this week.3A MATCHUPSPalo Verde @ Coolidge — Thursday, Jan 8Burning Questions:How does Coolidge attack Palo Verde’s aggressive zone defense?Palo Verde is #3 in defensive efficiency in 3ACoolidge is Top 10 in offensive efficiencyCan Palo Verde keep the Dees brothers off the offensive glass?Averaging 8 offensive rebounds per game combinedExtra possessions vs a zone could be the differenceValley Christian @ Seton Catholic — Friday, Jan 9Burning Questions:Can Valley Christian remain disciplined defensively?Valley Christian is Top 10 in defensive efficiencyCan Seton Catholic get comfortable and find an offensive rhythm?Excellent at reading defenses and taking what’s givenNot just about Fauskee — Morris and Reis are big factors39% team shooting from threeFauskee’s ghost screens and flares are tough to coverCan Valley Christian hurt Seton in different ways?Big lineups?Small-ball speed?Payson @ Alchesay — Saturday, Jan 10Burning Questions:Can Payson control tempo on the road?Can Alchesay protect home court and dictate pace?2A MATCHUPSSan Tan Charter @ Fountain Hills — Thursday, Jan 8Burning Questions:Can Fountain Hills slow down San Tan Charter’s offense?Can San Tan simply take care of business in a good-on-good matchup?PCD @ ALA — Friday, Jan 9Burning Questions:How does ALA handle the JD Jones problem?Can PCD match ALA’s physicality and toughness for 32 minutes?1A MATCHUPSHayden @ Fort Thomas — Tuesday, Jan 6Burning Questions:Can Fort Thomas keep Hayden off the offensive glass?Hayden averages 40 rebounds per game17 offensive rebounds per gameAll while playing zoneCan Hayden play at the pace Fort Thomas wants?The Gregory School @ Valley Lutheran — Thursday, Jan 8Burning Questions:Can Valley Lutheran generate consistent offense in the second half?29 points per game in the 1st half19 points per game in the 2nd halfCan The Gregory School find offensive flow against a Top 10 1A defense?Key Players to Watch (The Gregory School):Devin DawsonChase ButlerRazzAlec Cohen (elite athlete)LISTEN NOW 🎙️These games will be decided by answers, not hype. Jeff and Reyes break down the matchups that matter most this week in Arizona small-school basketball.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff and Reyes dive into the heart of holiday tournament season 🎄🏀, previewing some of the biggest Christmas and New Year’s tournaments across Arizona.The guys break down the Cougar Holiday Classic, Battle on the Border, Coyotes Basketball Invitational, and the Epic Tourneys New Year’s Classic, discussing why these events matter, how they shape momentum, and which teams could use a strong showing to redefine their season. Along the way, they share predictions, spotlight contenders, and engage directly with the Small Ball community. 👀🔥🏔️ Mogollon stands out as a team to watch thanks to size, toughness, and competitiveness.🐾 Coolidge is favored at the Cougar Holiday Classic, thriving in their new playing style.💪 Thatcher remains a strong contender with consistency and experience.⚔️ Battle on the Border is a huge opportunity for teams like The Gregory School to build momentum.🏆 Yuma Catholic is expected to make a strong run in the Battle on the Border.🐺 Coyotes Basketball Invitational gives teams like Arete Prep a chance to test themselves against tougher competition.🧱 Valley Lutheran earns respect for steady play and competitive spirit.🎆 Epic Tourneys New Year’s Classic features evenly matched teams, making predictions wide open and unpredictable.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff and Reyes preview two major upcoming tournaments that could shape the rest of the season — the Coyotes Basketball Invitational 🐺🏀 and the Epic Tourneys New Year’s Classic 🎇.The guys break down why these tournaments matter, which teams are under the most pressure, and how strong performances (or struggles) could impact momentum heading into league play. Along the way, they spotlight key players, debate favorites, and identify dark horses ready to make noise when the lights are brightest. 👀🔥🐺 Coyotes Basketball Invitational features several teams that will define the season early.👀 Arizona Lutheran is a must-watch team in the Coyotes Invitational.🎆 Epic Tourneys New Year’s Classic brings together a diverse and competitive field.⚠️ Coolidge needs to build momentum and confidence in tournament play.🏆 Lincoln Prep is undefeated, but the real test comes against tougher competition.🔧 Payson has potential but must improve when facing top-tier teams.⭐ Layla Curtis is a standout player built for tournament moments.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff Luera and Reyes Herrera break down their Top 16 rankings for Arizona high school boys basketball — and trust us, it wasn’t easy. 😤🏀The guys dig into the challenges of ranking teams across different regions and schedules, balancing eye test 👀, results 📊, and consistency. To keep things fun, they add a holiday twist 🎄 by handing out Christmas gift ideas for each team.🏀 The Top 16 boys teams across Arizona🤯 Why ranking teams is tougher than it looks🎁 Christmas gift ideas for every program🔥 Strong opinions, laughs, and Small Ball debates🙌 Respect for the grind of players and coaches statewide
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff Luera and Reyes Herrera unveil their Top 16 rankings for Arizona high school girls basketball — and it’s not as easy as it sounds. 😅🏀The guys dive into the challenges of ranking teams based on performance, strength of schedule, and consistency, while keeping things light with a fun twist 🎁 — Christmas gift ideas for each team. Packed with humor 😂, insight 🧠, and genuine appreciation for the players and programs across the state ❤️🏀, this episode blends analysis with the personality that makes Arizona Small Ball what it is.🏀 The Top 16 girls teams across Arizona🤯 Why ranking teams is harder than it looks🎄 Christmas gift ideas tailored to each program🙌 Appreciation for players, coaches, and communities
The Arizona Small Ball Podcast is back with an action-packed episode! Join hosts Jeff Luera and Reyes Herrera as they dissect the thrilling high school basketball showdowns from the recent Round Valley Round Ball Tournament and previous matchups from the week. This week, we break down the most intense matchups: 🏆 Payson vs. Holbrook in a nail-biting final, and Fort Thomas demonstrating serious resilience against Pima. We shine a spotlight on standout performances from teams like Ben Franklin, River Valley, and the dominant San Tan Charter. Plus, we analyze the broader competitive landscape of Arizona hoops, emphasizing the crucial difference home court advantage makes and tracking the impressive development of rising stars across various programs. 📈The second half of the season is heating up, and we set the stage for what’s next! Tune in now for the deepest dive into Arizona Small Ball action!What's Inside This Episode:🏆 Championship Showdown: The thrilling conclusion of Payson vs. Holbrook and For Thomas V Pima!📈 Rising Stars: Tracking improvement for River Valley, Valley Lutheran, and Yuma Catholic.🔥 Undefeated Watch: A shoutout to the impressive 8-0 start for Coolidge.🔊 Atmosphere Analysis: The unique home-court energy at San tan Charter.Don't miss a minute of the action. Subscribe and listen today! 👇
In this episode, hosts Jeff Luera and Reyes Herrera are breaking down the fierce competition and standout performances across the Arizona high school girls' basketball scene. This isn't just a recap; it's an insider's look at the teams dominating the courts and the players making waves! This week, we zoom in on the powerhouse performance of Joseph City at the Round Valley Tournament, analyzing how they simply overwhelmed the competition. We'll also dissect the secrets behind Lincoln Prep's red-hot start and explore why Snowflake's incredible rebounding stats (an average of 38 boards per game! 🤯) are a major key to their success.Plus, hear exciting updates on:Horizon Honors' rising confidence after a massive win over the defending champions!Gilbert Christian's inspiring comeback story.Yuma Catholic's resilience and 3A division dominance.👑 Joseph City's Dominance: They weren't just good at the Round Valley Tournament; they showcased impeccable talent and teamwork that promises a potential deep run.🚀 Lincoln Prep's Hot Start: Discover how their depth and balanced approach make them a serious contender this season.❄️ Snowflake's Board Control: We break down why averaging 39 rebounds per game is a game-changer and a significant factor in their success.💪 Gilbert Christian's Comeback: Analyzing the key players stepping up to fuel their strong resurgence.😈 Yuma Catholic: Proving to be a formidable and resilient opponent in the challenging 3A division.Cinderella potential as the Copper tournament approaches.✨ Player Spotlight: Tamia from Miami is averaging a breathtaking triple-double—learn why she is the standout player of the moment!From potential Cinderella stories to players averaging triple-doubles, Jeff and Reyes cover the competitive landscape with expert insights. Tune in to catch all the excitement! 🔥
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff Luera and Reyes Herrera dive into another action-packed week of Arizona high school basketball! 🏀🔥They spotlight the red-hot rise of the Seton Catholic Sentinels ⚔️, who continue shaking up the rankings with wins over top teams. The guys also celebrate River Valley’s undefeated streak 🚀, and break down the dominance of Fort Thomas 💪 in their league.The fast-paced, high-octane style of ALA West Foothills ⚡ gets major attention, along with Pima’s strong win over Scottsdale 🏆. The hosts also highlight Gilbert Classical’s solid start 📈 and Ben Franklin’s resurgence now that key players have returned 🔄🔥.From elite teams rising to sleepers emerging, the landscape of Arizona small-school hoops is as competitive as ever. 👀🏀
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff Luera and Reyes Herrera break down the newest storylines across Arizona high school basketball. They highlight Wickenburg’s surprising hot start, the intense matchup between Horizon Honors and Fountain Hills, and Rancho’s continued strength on both ends of the floor.The guys also dive into the dominance of the Snowflake girls, Tuba City’s sharp, disciplined play, and the emergence of Valley Christian’s rising stars. The episode closes with a recap of the high-speed showdown between San Carlos and Fort Thomas, followed by St. John’s impressive run in the PCD Tournament.🚀 Wickenburg is off to a surprising and impressive start.⚔️ Horizon Honors vs Fountain Hills delivered a competitive, high-level game.🔥 Rancho continues to show discipline and strong execution.❄️ Snowflake Girls look dominant early — a true title contender.🏔️ Tuba City is playing sharp, physical basketball with purpose.⭐ Valley Christian is seeing major contributions from rising stars.⚡ San Carlos vs Fort Thomas showcased speed, transition pressure, and crowd energy.🏆 St. John’s leaves the PCD tournament with momentum and confidence.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff Luera and Reyes Herrera dive into another exciting week of Arizona girls high school basketball. They break down standout performances, program-defining wins, rising stars, and the biggest storylines shaping the early season.Jeff and Reyes highlight big-time performances from Morenci, Joseph City, Winslow, Horizon Honors, Lincoln Prep, and Window Rock, while also recapping the electric showdown between Yuma Catholic and Seton Catholic. The guys shine a spotlight on freshman phenom Layla Curtis, and finish with a deep dive into the emotional and intense Battle of the Apaches between San Carlos and Alchesay — a rivalry that never disappoints.💡 Takeaways:🔥 Tiara Jones (Morenci) delivered a standout performance in a tight battle vs Fort Thomas.🧱 Joseph City impressed with elite defensive efficiency in their season opener.🚀 Winslow looks like they’re BACK with major wins over strong opponents.👀 Horizon Honors is emerging as a team to keep a close eye on — deep roster + coaching.💪 Lincoln Prep is on fire to start the season with dominant early performances.🌟 Window Rock’s surprising rise has them competing at a high level already.🏆 Yuma Catholic’s big win over Seton Catholic shows their growth and toughness.✨ Layla Curtis is making waves as a freshman — skilled, calm, and impactful.⚔️ Battle of the Apaches delivered again, with San Carlos’ resilient 4th quarter sealing it.🙌 Community support remains the heartbeat of Arizona high school basketball.🎙️ Listen Now:Week 2 brought breakout stars, rivalry battles, and major early-season statements. Tap in for all the storylines that matter in Arizona girls hoops! 🔥🏀
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff Luera and Reyes Herrera break down a jam-packed week of Arizona high school basketball. From surprise contenders to electric finishes, the guys cover all the early-season movement across 1A–3A.They spotlight Bourgade Catholic’s🔥 strong start, Arete Prep’s unique player recognition system, and Gilbert Christian’s clutch buzzer-beater win. The duo also highlights Palo Verde’s elite athleticism, Seton Catholic’s huge W over Yuma Catholic, and Alchesay’s upward trend after a competitive matchup with San Carlos.Jeff and Reyes share standout player performances, including Joey Benali (Page) and Parker’s aggressive new identity, while also discussing injuries affecting Valley Christian, Fort Thomas’ rise in 1A, and Santan Charter’s impressive start despite missing key pieces.💡 Takeaways:🔥 Bourgade Catholic is rolling early and looks legit.🌟 Arete Prep is gaining attention with their unique player recognition system.🎯 Gilbert Christian’s coaching and late-game execution continue to shine.⚡ Palo Verde’s athleticism is giving opponents problems.🏀 Joey Benaly (Page) is emerging as a must-watch player.💪 Parker is making noise with their aggressive, fearless style.🏆 Fort Thomas looks like a serious 1A contender.🚀 Santan Charter off to a fast start even without full roster strength.📈 Seton Catholic’s win over YC has major ranking implications.🔵 Alchesay trending upward after a strong performance vs San Carlos.🎙️ Listen Now:Another week, another round of chaos, clutch moments, and rising stars in Arizona small school hoops! Tap in, Small Ball fam. 🔥🏀
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff Luera and Reyes Herrera break down an electric Week 1 of Arizona high school basketball. They dive into the biggest matchups, standout performances, and early-season surprises across the state.From dominant showings to gritty wins, the guys highlight strong starts from teams like Page, Show Low, Fountain Hills, and Tuba City.Jeff and Reyes emphasize the importance of resilience, composure, and adapting quickly in the opening weeks — setting the tone for what promises to be a wild and exciting year of small school hoops.🎙️ Listen Now:The season is officially underway — and the Small Ball community is already buzzing. Tap in to hear who impressed, who surprised, and what Week 1 means for the road ahead!
In this action-packed episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff Luera and Reyes Herrera break down an explosive first week of Arizona high school basketball! 🎉 From nail-biters to breakout performances, the guys highlight the games and teams that set the tone for an unforgettable season ahead.They dive into NPA’s🔥 performance against Rancho, PCD’s OT thriller vs Fountain Hills, and the fast-paced showdown between Gilbert Christian and ALA West Foothills ⚡. Jeff and Reyes also examine the down-to-the-wire matchup between Page and Show Low, plus Joseph City’s strong showing 💪 against The Gregory School.💡 Expect:🚨 Big-time performances🔥 Week 1 surprises🧨 High-energy matchups💪 Early contenders emerging⚔️ Underdogs making noise🎙️ Listen Now:If Week 1 is any indication… Arizona small school hoops is about to be WILD this year. Tap in and relive the chaos!




