Basha Bears Down: Wins U of A and ASU Tournaments

In the scorching heat where others have retreated to the comfort of AC, Arizona’s finest football teams have been perfecting their craft in the latest batch of 7 on 7 scrimmages and tournaments. Along with a few teams from California, many made the trip to Tucson and Tempe but only two would come out victorious. Or one.

Photo By Josh Eaton

During the June 12th ASU tournament, Williams Field put themselves in the conversation after a dominant showing against Chandler in the semifinals. Then in the finals, they shutout Brophy in another dominant showing, cementing themselves as a team to look out for this season. The junior wide receiver Trey Smith was awarded the Pitchfork for his MVP-worthy performance. The wideout with offers from NAU, Iowa, and others is proven to be a lethal weapon in the Blackhawks offense alongside Q Skillings.

Photo By Josh Eaton

The talk of the state right now is the Basha Bears program. For the first time ever, Basha managed to bring home the gold from BOTH the ASU and U of A tournaments. On June 5th, Basha traveled to Tempe and played Lincoln, a program from California, in the championship. Days later, they made the trek south to Tucson where they once again played in the championship game, this time against Highland, and won. Senior Defensive Back Trey Knox held the fort down, recording 2 interceptions and 4 pass breakups end route to a win. It’s an incredible achievement considering the physical toll that these players take on hot summer days like this year. 

Williams Field is coming off of a first round exit to Salpointe Catholic, nearly upsetting the Lancers 31-28. Basha is always predicted into the Open bracket. However, winning the coveted trophy has proved to be not easy, as they suffered a loss at the hands of Liberty in the championship game. The road to the fall has already begun and it’s only a matter of time before it kicks into full gear.