Community Mourns Loss of Tolleson Coach Ryan Blassingame
Ryan Blassingame, a 44‑year‑old basketball coach at Tolleson High School, died unexpectedly, leaving behind a grieving community, a supportive family, and a legacy of mentorship.
Jul 27, 2026
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The Arizona Republic
Latest Slidescroller coverage mentioning The Arizona Republic across Football, Baseball, Basketball.
Arizona’s Small-School Football Powerhouses Gear Up for a Heated Season
From undefeated streaks to strategic heat management, Arizona's lower‑division football teams are poised for a dramatic campaign, driven by legendary programs, emerging leaders and the lasting impact of the Jones family.
Jul 27, 2026
Luke DallaRiva Takes the Helm of Gilbert Higley Boys Basketball
After a standout season that saw Gilbert Higley finish 19‑8 and reach the state quarterfinals, the school has appointed Luke DallaRiva as its new boys basketball coach, tapping a proven leader from Scottsdale Notre Dame Prep.
Jul 26, 2026
Arizona High School Football Teams Use Summer Camps to Forge Chemistry Ahead of 2026 Season
Arizona teams are leveraging summer camps in cooler locales and at home to bond, develop leadership and set the tone for the upcoming season.
Jul 26, 2026
World Cup Sparks Soccer Boom in Arizona High Schools
The recent FIFA World Cup has led to a surge in high school soccer interest across Arizona, with coaches noting increased participation, academy growth, and broader community engagement.
Jul 25, 2026
GCU Baseball Rebuilds with 22 New Signings After Roster Overhaul
After losing 21 players to the transfer portal, Grand Canyon University’s baseball program restocks with a diverse group of newcomers, headlined by two Jacksonville State transfers and a left‑handed pitcher prospect.
Jul 24, 2026
Arizona’s Flag Football Coaches Lead the Charge in 2026
A look at the top high school flag football coaches in Arizona, their championship pedigrees and the growing impact of the sport.
Jul 2, 2026
Randy Bennett Returns to Lead ASU Men’s Basketball Through a Transformative Rebuild
Arizona State University’s men’s basketball program is entering a new chapter under Coach Randy Bennett, who is back on the court after a hospitalization that delayed his debut. His focus on taller frontcourt players and a disciplined system marks a distinct shift from the previous era.
Jun 30, 2026
Top 10 Arizona High School Tight Ends to Watch in 2026
Arizona’s high school football landscape is undergoing a subtle but significant shift, as the traditional tight end archetype gives way to a more dynamic, multi‑dimensional player. This article profiles the top prospects set to redefine the position in the 2026 season.
Jun 29, 2026
Arizona’s Top 10 High School Football Coaches Shaping the 2026 Season
A look at the coaches who have guided their teams to recent title successes and the early promise of the upcoming season.
Jun 25, 2026
Top Arizona Cornerback Nasim Eason Commits to Arizona State
Gilbert Higley’s Nasim Eason announced his pledge to Arizona State on June 22, ending a brief stint with San Diego State and highlighting a recruiting class that also features three other elite in‑state prospects.
Jun 22, 2026
Damin Lopez Leaves St. Mary’s After Nine Years, Eyes New Challenge
After nine seasons and two championship banners, Damin Lopez steps down from Phoenix St. Mary's, citing a desire for new horizons while the Knights prepare for the next chapter.
Jun 16, 2026
Kingston Anetema Commits to Arizona State Football
The wide receiver and defensive back from Mesa High School announced his verbal commitment to Arizona State University, citing his impressive stats and the program’s growing momentum.
Jun 15, 2026
Greg Bordes Takes the Helm of Hamilton High Baseball
Greg Bordes, a former Arizona State player and coach at several universities, has been named the new baseball coach at Hamilton High School in Chandler, succeeding Mike Woods, who retired after leading the program to ten championships.
Jun 12, 2026
Arizona’s Greatest High School Baseball Coaches: A Legacy of Excellence
A recent Arizona Republic feature spotlights the coaches whose careers have defined Arizona high school baseball through championships, longevity and lasting impact on players and programs.
May 27, 2026
Veteran Coach Mike Woods Retires After 10 State Titles at Hamilton High
Mike Woods, who built Hamilton’s baseball program from its inception in 1999 into a ten‑time state champion, announced his retirement this week, closing a chapter that reshaped the sport in the region.
May 21, 2026
Sunnyslope Baseball Coach Dismissed Amid Mystery
Kevin Woods, the varsity baseball coach at Phoenix Sunnyslope, was fired by athletic director Tim Matteson without explanation, prompting community outcry.
May 21, 2026
Jake Hildebrand Commits to Arizona State, Elevating Sun Devils’ Offensive Line
Jake Hildebrand, ranked as the nation's premier left tackle, announced his commitment to Arizona State University, bringing size, experience and a championship pedigree to the Sun Devils' front line.
May 19, 2026
Scottsdale Christian Secures Sixth 2A Baseball Crown as Williams Claims Historic 1A Title
Scottsdale Christian extended its championship streak with a 7-3 win over Benson, while Williams captured its first-ever 1A state title, showcasing standout pitching and clutch hitting.
May 18, 2026
Notre Dame edges Horizon in high‑stakes 5A baseball playoff, rematch set for Thursday
Scottsdale Notre Dame survived a late rally to beat Horizon 13‑11, setting up a Thursday rematch at Hohokam Stadium for a spot in the 5A state final.
May 14, 2026