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! 💪👻🏀
In this Halloween-themed episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff and Reyes dive into the spooky side of Arizona high school hoops! From bone-chilling rivalries to monster performances, the duo breaks down the scariest matchups in both boys’ and girls’ basketball this season.
💡 Takeaways:
🧢 A fun debate over the scariest mascots and coaches in small school basketball
🏀 Girls’ basketball heats up with Horizon Honors vs. Miami — a can’t-miss matchup
📅 December is shaping up to be the month to watch for girls’ hoops
❄️ Snowflake vs. Coolidge brings powerhouse energy to the court
⚡ San Carlos’ electric guards face off in a fiery rivalry with Alchesay
📈 The Gregory School matchup could help San Carlos climb in PowerPoints
💪 Pima shows grit and toughness in their Clash of Titans against Push Ridge
🔁 Phoenix Country Day seeks revenge vs. Palo Verde after last year’s nail-biter
🧩 Yuma Catholic and Valley Christian both undergo major changes — watch this space
🚨 Ben Franklin could be a real threat to Gilbert Christian’s new look
🧱 Joseph City’s defense gives Fort Thomas nightmares in 1A play
🎃 Girls’ Basketball
🏀 Miami vs. Horizon Honors — a key early-season test
❄️ Snowflake vs. Coolidge — powerhouse programs collide
🏔️ Page vs. Snowflake — a high-altitude showdown
🔥 Boys’ Basketball
🦅 Valley Christian vs. Payson — small-ball speed vs. mountain muscle
🐺 Ganado vs. Valley Sanders — intensity from start to finish
💥 Snowflake vs. Valley Christian — a 3A battle of titans
⚡ San Carlos vs. The Gregory School — guard play that shocks the state
💪 Pima vs. Push Ridge — toughness meets talent
🔁 Phoenix Country Day vs. Palo Verde — revenge on the line
🚀 Phoenix Christian vs. Yuma Catholic — athleticism on full display
🧩 Valley Christian vs. Yuma Catholic — a new era for both teams
🎯 Ben Franklin vs. Gilbert Christian — styles clash in the East Valley
🧱 Joseph City vs. Fort Thomas — defense wins the night
🎧 Listen now to hear Jeff and Reyes break down all the spooky stats, scary-good players, and terrifyingly tough schedules around Arizona high school basketball!
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Link to our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/azsmallball
In this episode we talk about the teams competing in the main Event for the boys! We talk through teams that are "the hunted, the hunters, and dark horses in the tournament. We also discuss who we think is gonna have the gym BUZZING this weekend, and who we expect to go nuclear!!! Don't miss out!!
🎙️ Main Event Girls Basketball Round Robin Preview 🏀👑
In this episode, Jeff and Reyes dive into the buzz surrounding the upcoming main event round robin, breaking down key teams, star players, and lingering questions as programs prepare for the summer time. 🔥📈
🏔️ Horizon Honors (18-12, 3rd in Region)
🧩 Biggest Strength: Return ALL impact players💫 Key Players:
They played a solid zone last year and return a tight-knit squad that knows how to play together.📈 High Point Last Season: Big-time playoff performance vs. Rancho.
Payson (27-7, 1st in Region, Conference Runner-Up)
🔻 Key Losses: Redford, Sarnowski, Deschaaf, Whaley, Ramirez.🤔 Big Question: They lost a lot — but there's no doubt the returners are leveling up.
📈 High Point Last Season: Making it to the conference championship game.
📚 Cicero Prep (17-10, 2nd in Region)
🔻 Key Losses: Just 1 senior.💫 Key Returner: Kira Meyers – ready to take it to another level.
📈 High Point Last Season: Top-tier regional finish and strong overall record.
🌲 Camp Verde (12-14, 5th in Region)
🔻 Key Losses: Lydia Bleak, Jazz Torres💪 Key Returners: Shanell Russell, Angel Russell, Siva, Clancy
This team brings back experience and underrated toughness.📈 High Point Last Season: Played competitively in a tough region.
Glendale Prep (16-6, 1st in Region)
🔻 Key Losses: 5 seniors — Pettingill, Caspers, Moore, Hawkins, Senna Smith💫 Key Returner: Solomon — elite athlete stepping into a bigger role.
📈 High Point Last Season: Finished season 14-2
⚔️ Valley Christian (19-10, 2nd in Region)
🔻 Key Loss: Arianna Maurer💫 Returners: Ellie Phillips, Abby Grier, Addison Krupnick
Strong core returning, expect a deep playoff run if they stay healthy.📈 High Point Last Season: Nearly winning the region.
🟣 EVAC
🔻 Losses: No seniors on the roster — lost 70% of scoring from last season.💫 Players to Watch:
🔥 High point of the season: Won state title for CAA
In this episode, host Jeff sits down with Coach Steve Solita, head coach of Pusch Ridge Christian Academy, to unpack the Lions’ incredible journey from a #11 seed to state champions. 🥇 Coach Solita shares the highs and lows of the season, his path to the program, and the power of faith, leadership, and culture that transformed his team. 🙏🏽💪🏽
🛠️ Hard work and attitude are the foundation of any winning team.
🤝 Culture matters — it’s the glue that holds championship teams together.
💥 Adversity isn’t the enemy — it’s fuel for greatness.
👴🏽➡️👦🏽 Senior leadership guided the way during their playoff push.
🙌 Faith and character were at the core of the team’s identity.
🧠🎯 Strategic adjustments during key moments made the difference.
🚌✨ Road trips helped build strong team chemistry.
💭🧍🏽♂️ A positive mindset kept them grounded and focused.
🏠💛 Community and family support meant everything.
📈👀 Next season brings big expectations—but the culture is ready to meet them.
🎧 Tap in to hear how belief, unity, and toughness turned Pusch Ridge into a championship program. This one’s for the culture! 🔥🏀💙
Summary
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff and Reyes reflect on the success of their third annual showcase, highlighting standout players and the community's support. They discuss the impressive performances of various athletes, the importance of college coaches attending, and the contributions of sponsors that made the event possible. The conversation emphasizes the growth of the showcase and the excitement for future events, including the potential addition of a girls' showcase.
Takeaways
Community support played a vital role in the event's atmosphere.
Several players significantly raised their profiles during the showcase.
Coaches were impressed by the talent from smaller schools.
The hosts expressed gratitude for the support from the small ball community.
Players showcased their skills in front of college coaches.
The hosts highlighted specific players who stood out during the showcase.
In this episode we sit down with Coach Roundy out of Glendale prep. He is one of the best coaches in small ball, and is just getting started. In this episode we talk about coaching with culture, the uniqueness of GPA, and spotlight some awesome players from the Griffins this past season and the upcoming season.
If you love hoop talk you will love this episode!!
Summary
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff and Reyes dive into the excitement surrounding the upcoming ASBP Senior Showcase. They discuss the event details, including the three-point and dunk contests, highlighting standout contestants and making predictions. The conversation also covers the teams participating in the showcase, with insights into the players' skills and potential performances.
Takeaways:
The ASBP Senior Showcase is a highly anticipated event.
The hosts express excitement for the showcase week.
1A kids have consistently performed well in past showcases.
Noah Adkins is a favorite to win the three-point contest.
Melo is expected to surprise in the dunk contest.
The home team features a strong lineup of players.
Coach Bonner's away team is also stacked with talent.
The hosts emphasize the importance of community support for the seniors.
The Verl Heap Award will be presented during the showcase.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff and Reyes discuss the upcoming ASBP Senior Showcase, highlighting the significance of the event for senior athletes and the community. They delve into the logistics of the showcase, express gratitude towards sponsors, and celebrate the achievements of various players who will be participating. Each player is discussed in detail, showcasing their skills, standout performances, and potential for college recruitment.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff and Reyes celebrate the champions of Arizona high school basketball across various divisions. They discuss the standout performances of the 1A state champion Joseph City Wildcats, the 2A champion Miami Vandals, the 3A champion Snowflake Lobos, and the Copper state champion Phoenix Country Day Eagles. Each team's journey through the season, including high and low points, is analyzed, showcasing the talent and determination of these young athletes. The hosts reflect on the significance of these championships and the impact on the local basketball community.
Takeaways
Joseph City Wildcats won their first 1A title in 24 years.
Miami Vandals showcased offensive efficiency throughout the season.
Snowflake Lobos returned to the top of the 3A for the first time in 28 years.
PCD Eagles achieved a historic three-peat in the Copper state championship.
The importance of being battle-tested for teams like Joseph City.
Miami's standout player Tamia Peitela had a significant impact on their championship run.
Snowflake's physicality and defense were key to their success.
PCD's Olivia Owens played through illness to secure the championship win.
In this episode of the Arizona Small Ball Podcast, hosts Jeff and Reyes recap the thrilling conclusion of the Arizona high school basketball season, highlighting the champions from each division. They delve into the performances of the Gregory School, Rancho Solano, Push Ridge, and Valley Christian, discussing key moments, standout players, and the challenges each team faced on their road to victory. The conversation emphasizes the resilience and talent displayed throughout the season, culminating in a celebration of the champions and their remarkable journeys.
Takeaways
The Gregory School successfully defended their title in the 1A championship.
Rancho Solano's victory in the 2A championship marked a significant achievement for the program.
Push Ridge made history as the first 11th seed to win the 3A championship.
Valley Christian solidified their dynasty with a fourth consecutive championship title.
Key players stepped up for each team, showcasing their talent and determination.
The importance of teamwork and resilience was evident in all championship games.
Coaching strategies played a crucial role in the success of the teams.
The road to the championship was filled with challenges and impressive performances.
Tune in as I breakdown these awesome games in the 3A final four for the girls!!
Tune in as I break down TGS, and how they bested Seligman in this state Championship game!!
Tune in as we talk about some of the keys to the game against Valley and Gilbert Christian.
Tune in to hear our predictions on the Championship game between Page and PCD!!
Tune in to hear our takes on how these matchups will go in the final 4!!!
Tune in to hear our take on some MAJOR keys to this game!!