The Desert Speed School-trained boys basketball team from Sahuaro High School completed their historic 2023-24 season with a strong run through the 4A state playoffs, reaching the title game following a win over #1-seed ALA-Gilbert in the semifinal game. As reported by Javier Morales of AllSportsTucson, the Cougars used clutch fourth-quarter scoring from guard Cisco Llamas (4/4 FTs) and center Jamal Ali (7 of his 9 points in the 4th) to give Sahuaro a lead with under a minute to play in the semifinal. Ayumu Lara hit the clinching free throws to secure the win over the top-seeded ALA.
Sahuaro faced #2-seed Deer Valley in the title game, a rematch of an earlier contest between the schools. Late-game scoring from Llamas and wing Nick Ponds helped lead a comeback that sent the game into overtime, with Ponds’ contested shot in the lane with 9 seconds remaining tying the game up. Deer Valley’s shooting proved too much in the extra period, leading to a 63-61 runner-up finish for Sahuaro.
The Cougars finished the season 24-5 with an impressive undefeated home record (13-0) and a 7-1 record against region teams. The trip to the state finals was the first for the school since 2000-01.
(Photo credit: Kelly Presnell, Arizona Daily Star)
