Phoenix, Arizona, January 8, 2026

The North Phoenix Preparatory Academy Gladiators boys basketball team demonstrates remarkable resilience and commitment throughout a challenging season. Under the leadership of Coach Rodrick Buckworth, the players embody the values of teamwork and personal growth, learning valuable lessons on and off the court. Despite facing setbacks, the Gladiators maintain a strong record and a focus on continuous improvement. The community rallies around the team, highlighting the importance of high school athletics in nurturing pride and character among students.

Phoenix Prep Gladiators: Character Forged in Competition

North Phoenix Preparatory Academy’s boys basketball team demonstrates resilience and dedication through a challenging season, embodying the spirit of high school athletics in Arizona.

Phoenix, AZ – In the vibrant landscape of high school sports across Phoenix, the North Phoenix Preparatory Academy Gladiators boys basketball program stands as a testament to the enduring values of competition, teamwork, and personal growth. More than just a game, high school basketball provides a vital arena for young athletes to develop discipline, leadership, and a strong work ethic—qualities that extend far beyond the hardwood. The Gladiators, representing the spirit of North Phoenix Preparatory, have faced a season filled with both triumphs and tests, navigating their schedule with commitment and a focus on continuous improvement.

For many student-athletes in Arizona prep sports, the journey through a season is a rigorous path of self-discovery and collective effort. Every dribble, pass, and shot contributes to a larger narrative of character building, as players learn to overcome adversity, celebrate shared successes, and take personal responsibility for their contributions to the team. The community rallies around these young individuals, understanding that their efforts on the court reflect the pride and identity of the entire school.

A December Test of Resolve

The Gladiators recently faced a significant challenge on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, when the North Phoenix Preparatory Academy Varsity Boys Basketball team met Great Hearts Anthem High School. In a competitive contest held at North Phoenix Preparatory, the Gladiators ultimately fell to Great Hearts Anthem with a final score of 45-65. Such matchups, even in defeat, serve as critical moments for growth, highlighting areas for development and reinforcing the importance of disciplined execution. These games underline the unforgiving nature of top-tier competition, where every possession matters, and resilience is paramount.

Season of Growth for the Gladiators

Despite the setback against Great Hearts Anthem, the North Phoenix Preparatory Academy Gladiators have demonstrated considerable strength throughout the 2025-2026 season. As of early January 2026, the varsity boys’ team holds an overall record of 6-3. Their performance within their region has been particularly strong, boasting a 1A West Region record of 6-1, positioning them third in their alignment. The team’s conference record also stands at 6-3.

The Gladiators have secured notable victories this season, showcasing their ability to compete and triumph. They achieved a narrow 36-35 victory over Salome High School on Tuesday, January 6, 2026. Other impressive wins include a 62-41 contest against Desert Heights Prep High School on Friday, December 19, 2025, and a dominant 58-13 performance against Phoenix Day School for the Deaf High School on Thursday, December 4, 2025. They also defeated Phoenix Day School for the Deaf High School again by a score of 43-33 on December 11, 2025. Early season successes included a 61-42 win against the San Pasqual Warriors on November 21, 2025, and a 59-49 victory over the Maryvale Prep Matadors on December 5, 2025. These wins underscore the team’s capacity for strategic play and collective determination, even as they navigate challenging losses like those to Valley Lutheran (46-62) and Antelope Union (46-58).

Leadership and Teamwork on Display

Under the guidance of Varsity Head Coach Rodrick Buckworth, the Gladiators emphasize a philosophy rooted in fundamental skills and unwavering effort. The roster for the 2025-2026 season features dedicated student-athletes such as Ramee Gewarges, Ronan Ignacio, Ethan Aleman, Jayden McMaster, and Cameron Niemczyk, among others, who embody the team’s commitment. These young men are learning invaluable lessons about leadership—both on and off the court—understanding that individual commitment contributes directly to team success. Each player’s personal responsibility for their role, combined with their collective teamwork, is the foundation of the North Phoenix Preparatory Academy basketball program.

Building Community Through Sports

North Phoenix Preparatory Academy, located in Phoenix, Arizona, is recognized for its dedication to comprehensive student development, extending beyond academic excellence to include a robust athletics program. The school’s basketball program, like its other sports, is designed to foster teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness among its students. Affiliated with the state athletic association, the academy ensures its students have competitive opportunities against other high schools in the region. The engagement of the local community, from passionate fans packing the stands to local sponsorships supporting the program, creates a powerful sense of collective identity and pride for Phoenix AZ high school basketball. This support reinforces the idea that high school sports are a cornerstone of community spirit, providing positive role models and shared experiences.

The Road Ahead for the Gladiators

The season is far from over, and the Gladiators are poised to continue their pursuit of excellence. Upcoming games present fresh opportunities for the team to apply lessons learned, demonstrate their growth, and compete with unwavering resolve. The North Phoenix Preparatory Academy Gladiators are scheduled to play the Bagdad Sultans today, Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM. They will then host the Mountainside Wolves on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 6:00 PM. Looking further ahead, the team is set to travel to Tempe Prep Knights on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, for a 7:00 PM game, and will play against Superior on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 5:30 PM.

We encourage all residents and fans of Phoenix AZ high school basketball to come out and support the North Phoenix Preparatory Academy Gladiators as they continue their season. Every cheer from the stands fuels these young athletes and strengthens the bonds within our community. Stay tuned to HEREPhoenix for more coverage of Arizona prep basketball and other high school sports Phoenix stories, celebrating the hard work and dedication of our local teams.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the score of North Phoenix Preparatory Academy’s recent loss?

The North Phoenix Preparatory Academy Varsity Boys Basketball team lost their game against Great Hearts Anthem High School by a score of 45-65 on Tuesday, December 9, 2025.

What is the current overall record for the North Phoenix Preparatory Academy boys basketball team?

As of early January 2026, the North Phoenix Preparatory Academy Varsity Boys Basketball team has an overall record of 6-3.

Who is the head coach for the North Phoenix Preparatory Academy boys basketball team?

The Varsity Head Coach for the North Phoenix Preparatory Academy boys basketball team is Rodrick Buckworth.

What are some upcoming games for the North Phoenix Preparatory Academy Gladiators?

The Gladiators are scheduled to play the Bagdad Sultans today, Thursday, January 8, 2026, at 6:00 PM; host the Mountainside Wolves on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 6:00 PM; travel to Tempe Prep Knights on Tuesday, January 13, 2026, at 7:00 PM; and play against Superior on Thursday, January 29, 2026, at 5:30 PM.

What values does North Phoenix Preparatory Academy’s athletics program emphasize?

North Phoenix Preparatory Academy’s athletics program fosters teamwork, discipline, and physical fitness, aiming for the comprehensive development of its students.

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