Basha vs Chandler Rematch Set for National ESPN Broadcast

One of Arizona’s most anticipated high school football games will receive a national spotlight during the opening week of the 2026 season.

Basha and Chandler are scheduled to meet on Saturday, August 29, in a rematch of the 2025 Open Division State Championship. During Wednesday’s CUSD Football Media Day, Chandler Unified School District Athletic Director Shawn Rustad announced that the rivalry matchup would be nationally televised.

Adam Beadle later reported on X that sources indicated the game is expected to air on ESPN as part of the network’s high school football kickoff coverage.

The matchup gives Chandler an early opportunity for redemption after Basha defeated the Wolves 34–7 to capture the Open Division championship last December.

With two of Arizona’s premier programs meeting during the first week of football, the eyes of the state and now the country, will be on the rivalry.