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 MATCHUPS
Valley Christian @ Seton Catholic — Friday, Jan 9
Burning Questions:
Can Seton Catholic’s youth stay poised against Valley Christian’s style of play?
Valley Christian ranks #6 in offensive efficiency in 3A
Seton relies heavily on youth: 3 freshmen and 1 sophomore
Bowler, DePuccio, Iber, and Di Scala combine for 32 of 48 points
Seton averages 17 turnovers per game
Can Valley Christian find rhythm against a strong young defense?
Seton Catholic is #9 in defensive efficiency
Page @ Window Rock — Saturday, Jan 10
Burning Questions:
Who can get the most stops?
Both teams are near the bottom of 3A defensive efficiency
Both are Top 12 in offensive efficiency across small ball
Window Rock: #1
Page: #12
This is a huge game for Page, currently last in the 3A North
2A MATCHUPS
Round Valley @ Pima — Tuesday, Jan 6
Burning 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 Ashby
Guard play could decide everything in this matchup
Phoenix Christian @ Rancho — Friday, Jan 9
Burning Questions:
Can Phoenix Christian get their offense going against Rancho’s pressure?
Pressure, zone, and constant activity
Rancho ranks #3 in defensive efficiency in 2A
Can Phoenix Christian turn this into a Brown one-man show?
1A MATCHUPS
Valley Sanders @ Joseph City — Wednesday, Jan 7
Burning Questions:
Can Valley Sanders handle and play through the pressure?
Joseph City ranks #4 in defensive efficiency in 1A
Can 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 9
Burning Questions:
Can Mogollon control the pace of the game?
Best in half-court, grind-it-out style
32 rebounds per game
Struggle in transition
22 turnovers per game and limited shooting
Can 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 MATCHUPS
Palo Verde @ Coolidge — Thursday, Jan 8
Burning Questions:
How does Coolidge attack Palo Verde’s aggressive zone defense?
Palo Verde is #3 in defensive efficiency in 3A
Coolidge is Top 10 in offensive efficiency
Can Palo Verde keep the Dees brothers off the offensive glass?
Averaging 8 offensive rebounds per game combined
Extra possessions vs a zone could be the difference
Valley Christian @ Seton Catholic — Friday, Jan 9
Burning Questions:
Can Valley Christian remain disciplined defensively?
Valley Christian is Top 10 in defensive efficiency
Can Seton Catholic get comfortable and find an offensive rhythm?
Excellent at reading defenses and taking what’s given
Not just about Fauskee — Morris and Reis are big factors
39% team shooting from three
Fauskee’s ghost screens and flares are tough to cover
Can Valley Christian hurt Seton in different ways?
Big lineups?
Small-ball speed?
Payson @ Alchesay — Saturday, Jan 10
Burning Questions:
Can Payson control tempo on the road?
Can Alchesay protect home court and dictate pace?
2A MATCHUPS
San Tan Charter @ Fountain Hills — Thursday, Jan 8
Burning 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 9
Burning Questions:
How does ALA handle the JD Jones problem?
Can PCD match ALA’s physicality and toughness for 32 minutes?
1A MATCHUPS
Hayden @ Fort Thomas — Tuesday, Jan 6
Burning Questions:
Can Fort Thomas keep Hayden off the offensive glass?
Hayden averages 40 rebounds per game
17 offensive rebounds per game
All while playing zone
Can Hayden play at the pace Fort Thomas wants?
The Gregory School @ Valley Lutheran — Thursday, Jan 8
Burning Questions:
Can Valley Lutheran generate consistent offense in the second half?
29 points per game in the 1st half
19 points per game in the 2nd half
Can The Gregory School find offensive flow against a Top 10 1A defense?
Key Players to Watch (The Gregory School):
Devin Dawson
Chase Butler
Razz
Alec 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 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 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 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
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:
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! 🔥
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:
Don't miss a minute of the action. Subscribe and listen today! 👇
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!
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff and Reyes dive into the excitement of Week 1 in Arizona girls high school basketball! 🎉 They break down the good, great, and best matchups of the week, previewing key games, analyzing new rosters, and sharing predictions for how the season will tip off.
The conversation focuses on early chemistry, standout players, and which teams could make an immediate statement. From revamped squads to powerhouse programs returning talent, this episode sets the stage for an electric opening week. 👀
💡 Takeaways:
🦅 Phoenix Country Day debuts a new look and fresh identity this season.
💪 Valley Sanders returns key players and looks strong out of the gate.
🔵 Alchesay is expected to shine, especially on their home floor.
🏔️ Tuba City enters Week 1 as a projected top contender for the season.
😬 Show Low faces challenges after major player losses, especially in their matchup against Page.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff and Reyes dive into the madness of Week 1 in Arizona high school basketball! 🎉 They break down the good, great, and best matchups of the week — previewing key games, analyzing new rosters, and sharing predictions for how the first week of hoops will play out.
The guys discuss turnover management, early-season chemistry, and which teams could make a statement right out of the gate. From up-and-coming programs to powerhouse contenders, this episode sets the tone for the season ahead. 👀
💡 Takeaways:
🏀 Parker and Kingman Academy rematch from last season.
💪 Empire looks to evolve from competitive to contender status this season.
⚡ NFL Yet impresses early with athleticism and raw potential.
🎒 Gilbert Christian’s youth could bring excitement — and a few first-game mistakes.
🏆 The Gregory School enters as a copper division run favorite in the 1A with serious firepower.
🧱 Fountain Hills’ defense continues to be one of the toughest in the state.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff and Reyes dive into the top storylines shaping Arizona high school girls basketball this season. From new coaching leadership to breakout players and powerhouse programs, the duo breaks down the excitement, challenges, and rivalries that make the girls’ side of small school hoops so special.
TOP STORYLINES FOR THE UPCOMING SEASON
CAMP VERDE COWBOYS AND COACH HARRIS
A new era begins in Camp Verde under Coach Harris. The hosts discuss his leadership style, the Cowboys’ team identity, and what to expect as they build toward a playoff push.
ISABELLA ACOSTA AND ASH FORK’S PLAYOFF POTENTIAL
Ash Fork’s standout guard Isabella Acosta continues to impress. Jeff and Reyes explore how her playmaking and leadership could lift her team into postseason contention.
JOSEPH CITY GIRLS AND THE COPPER TOURNAMENT
The Joseph City girls look to make a statement early. The Copper Tournament could reveal just how deep this group can go against top-tier competition.
3A NORTH RESERVATION TEAMS SHOWDOWN
The 3A North remains one of the most competitive regions in Arizona. The hosts highlight key matchups and the intense rivalries that define reservation basketball.
SETTING REALISTIC GOALS FOR PHOENIX COUNTRY DAY
The legacy of Phoenix Country Day continues under a new chapter. Jeff and Reyes talk expectations, development, and what realistic success looks like this season.
SNOWFLAKE’S DEFENSE AND CHAMPIONSHIP POTENTIAL
Snowflake’s defensive strength separates them from the pack. The duo breaks down why the Lady Lobos could be serious contenders for a state title.
TAMIA PIETILA: PLAYER OF THE YEAR CONTENDER
Tamia Pietila’s all-around game puts her firmly in the 2A Player of the Year conversation. Jeff and Reyes analyze her impact and leadership on and off the court.
FORT THOMAS VS. JOSEPH CITY: A 1A SHOWDOWN
A matchup loaded with intensity and tradition. The hosts preview the upcoming battle between Fort Thomas and Joseph City, a game that could define early-season momentum.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff and Reyes dive into the biggest storylines heading into the new season. From defending champions to underdog contenders, they break down the excitement and unpredictability that defines Arizona small school basketball.
TOP STORYLINES FOR THE SEASON
PUSH RIDGE’S CHALLENGE AS DEFENDING CHAMPIONS
The hosts discuss whether Push Ridge has the depth, discipline, and mindset to repeat in a stacked field.
SCOTTSDALE CHRISTIAN’S POTENTIAL WITH NEW ADDITIONS
New players and coaches make Scottsdale Christian one of the most intriguing teams this season.
PAYSON LONGHORNS: A TEAM ON THE RISE
The Longhorns’ transformation continues as they look to make noise in 3A.
ALA WEST FOOTHILLS VS. YUMA CATHOLIC
Can Yuma be challenged this year in the region?
3A SOUTH TEAMS AND THEIR POTENTIAL
A loaded region where every game feels like a playoff matchup.
THATCHER’S CEILING AND SOUTH REGION COMPETITIVENESS
Can Thatcher rise to the top in one of the most balanced regions in the state?
DESERT CHRISTIAN’S LATE-SEASON IMPACT
Returning experience makes Desert Christian a dangerous late-season opponent.
ZAYTHAN RUFFIN: A CONTENDER FOR 2A PLAYER OF THE YEAR
Zaythan Ruffin’s athleticism and leadership put him in the award conversation early.
SELIGMAN’S FUTURE WITHOUT KEY PLAYERS
After losing core seniors, Seligman looks to rebuild and stay competitive.
The Arizona Small Ball Podcast announces the introduction of the Verl Heap Award, an award that recognizes the most outstanding player in Arizona small ball. The award aims to encourage student athletes to be the best version of themselves on and off the court. The award is named after Verl Heap, a coaching legend at St. John's who won eight state titles and had a successful career as a player, coach, and Father. The criteria for the award include exceptional skill, sportsmanship, leadership, impact on team success, and character and integrity.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff and Reyes trade their scariest, funniest, and most unforgettable basketball tryout stories — from both the player and coach sides. They talk about the pressure of making a team, the chaos of evaluating players, and the outrageous moments that only happen when the gym lights flicker on for tryout week.
💡 Takeaways:
🏀 The stress of tryouts brings out the best — and funniest — sides of players.
😂 Jeff and Reyes share hilarious excuses players have used to get out of drills.
🧠 Insight into how coaches actually view effort, attitude, and preparation.
😳 One story turns dangerous fast, proving youth sports are never predictable.
📚 A reminder: Preparation beats panic — and confidence counts for more than flash.
💥 Story Segments:
🏀 Layups — quick, funny moments from tryouts that’ll have you shaking your head.
🎯 3-Pointers — unbelievable tales that hit nothing but net.
🚀 Slam Dunks — the wildest stories that left everyone speechless.
🎧 Listen Now:
From excuses and chaos to courage and comedy, this episode is pure ASBP gold. Tune in and relive the madness that makes basketball tryouts unforgettable! 💪👻🏀