Phoenix, AZ, January 18, 2026
The No. 12 Pima Community College women’s basketball team demonstrated resilience, clinching a dramatic overtime victory against Phoenix College. By coming back from a double-digit deficit to outscore their opponents 9-0 in overtime, the Aztecs improved their season record to 14-4 overall and 6-2 in conference play. This win highlights the significant role community college athletics play in fostering student development and enriching local communities.
Phoenix, AZ — The No. 12 Pima Community College women’s basketball team showcased remarkable resilience, overcoming Phoenix College in a dramatic overtime victory on January 18, 2026, to advance their season record to an impressive 14-4 overall and 6-2 in ACCAC conference play. This hard-fought win underscores the competitive spirit thriving within Arizona’s community college athletic landscape and highlights the profound impact these programs have on student development and local communities. The Aztecs’ ability to recover from a lost double-digit lead and dominate the extra period, outscoring the Bears 9-0, exemplifies the grit and determination cultivated through collegiate sports.
This triumph is more than just a notch in the win column; it reflects the dedication of student-athletes and coaching staff, whose pursuit of excellence contributes significantly to the vibrant sports culture and responsible growth within Arizona. Such achievements by institutions like Pima Community College are foundational to fostering a strong sense of community and providing valuable opportunities for young individuals to thrive both academically and athletically.
Aztecs Assert Dominance in Overtime Thriller
The highly anticipated matchup against Phoenix College saw the No. 12 Pima women’s team demonstrate exceptional fortitude. Despite relinquishing an early double-digit advantage, the Aztecs rallied when it mattered most. The overtime period became a testament to their disciplined play and strategic execution, as they held Phoenix College scoreless while adding nine points of their own to secure a 74-65 victory.
This win not only solidifies Pima’s strong standing in the Arizona Community College Athletic Conference (ACCAC) but also adds to a successful season for the institution’s athletic department. The Pima men’s basketball team also achieved a significant victory over Phoenix College on the same day, further highlighting the overall strength and competitive spirit within the Aztecs’ programs.
The Holistic Development of Arizona Student-Athletes
Community college athletics in Arizona, particularly at institutions like Pima, are integral to the holistic development of student-athletes, extending benefits far beyond the scoreboard. These programs provide a crucial environment for young adults to transition into college life, balancing academic rigor with athletic demands. Student-athletes often develop essential life skills such as discipline, effective time management, and goal-setting, preparing them for success in future academic and professional endeavors.
The commitment to academic success is a core tenet, with coaches and staff emphasizing personal growth alongside athletic prowess. The Arizona Community College Athletic Conference (ACCAC) itself champions competitive sports opportunities in conjunction with academic support, aiming for student success in higher education. This dedication ensures that athletes are not merely competing but are also building a robust foundation for their lives beyond sports, showcasing personal perseverance and initiative.
Economic Contributions and Community Engagement
Arizona’s community colleges are significant economic drivers, contributing billions of dollars and supporting thousands of jobs across the state. In fiscal year 2021-22, these institutions collectively added $13.0 billion in income to Arizona’s economy, supporting 183,448 jobs, which equates to one out of every 23 jobs in the state. While Pima Community College athletics contribute to this broader economic vitality by attracting attendees and fostering local engagement, their impact is particularly notable in cultivating community strength and self-reliance. Pima’s intercollegiate sports competitions are often open to the public, creating accessible entertainment and a focal point for local pride.
Beyond direct economic inputs, Pima Community College basketball is deeply integrated into the local community through various outreach and service initiatives. These programs include youth basketball clinics and community service projects, promoting values like teamwork, sportsmanship, and academic achievement. Such engagement not only strengthens the team’s ties with fans but also provides valuable learning experiences for players, developing their leadership skills and sense of social responsibility.
Private Initiative Fuels Student-Athlete Opportunity
A significant stride in empowering student-athletes through private initiative and responsible growth is Pima Community College’s partnership with Opendorse, a leading Name, Image, & Likeness (NIL) platform. Pima is the first community college in Arizona and among the first National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA) schools nationwide to offer NIL support. This pioneering initiative empowers student-athletes to build their personal brands and pursue local partnership opportunities, reflecting a free-market approach to athlete development.
This partnership with Opendorse also offers educational resources, including online courses, mental health support, and even a program allowing student-athletes to earn a free real estate license. Such programs exemplify private investment in the comprehensive development of young individuals, extending entrepreneurial skills and professional readiness beyond athletic competition. This model strengthens relationships with local businesses, uplifting both athletes and the regional economy through community self-reliance.
ACCAC: A Foundation for Competitive Excellence
The Arizona Community College Athletic Conference (ACCAC), established in 1964, serves as a crucial platform for competitive intercollegiate athletics within Region 1 of the NJCAA. Comprised of 17 two-year member colleges, the ACCAC has a strong tradition of both academic and athletic prowess. The conference fosters a highly competitive environment where student-athletes can refine their skills, gain valuable experience, and often progress to four-year institutions.
The ACCAC’s commitment to competitive excellence and the holistic development of student-athletes means that teams like the Pima Aztecs are consistently challenged, pushing them to achieve peak performance. This culture of competition not only elevates individual athletes but also generates excitement and pride across the communities supporting these institutions, contributing to the broader Arizona community college sports scene.
A Model for Sustained Success
The Pima Community College women’s basketball team’s overtime victory against Phoenix College is a testament to the enduring value of collegiate athletics in Arizona. It showcases not only athletic achievement but also the underlying commitment to student development, community engagement, and economic contribution. By emphasizing discipline, academic support, and innovative programs like NIL partnerships, Pima exemplifies how collegiate sports foster personal perseverance and responsible growth.
Supporting local college and university athletics in Arizona is an investment in the next generation of leaders, professionals, and community members. We encourage all residents to attend games, engage with student-athletes, and recognize the profound impact these programs have on shaping individuals and strengthening the fabric of our communities. Your continued support for Pima Community College athletics, Arizona community college sports, and ACCAC basketball helps cultivate an environment where student-athletes can achieve their full potential.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the final score of the Pima women’s basketball game against Phoenix College?
- The No. 12 Pima women’s basketball team defeated Phoenix College 74-65 in overtime.
- What is Pima Community College’s current record in women’s basketball?
- Following the win, Pima Community College’s women’s basketball team improved to 14-4 overall and 6-2 in ACCAC conference play.
- How did Pima Community College perform in overtime?
- Pima Community College outscored Phoenix College 9-0 in overtime.
- What is the Arizona Community College Athletic Conference (ACCAC)?
- The ACCAC is a junior college conference in Region 1 of the National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA), formed in 1964, and comprised of 17 two-year member colleges that provide intercollegiate athletics.
- Has Pima Community College implemented an NIL program for student-athletes?
- Yes, Pima Community College has partnered with Opendorse, becoming the first community college in Arizona and among the first NJCAA schools to provide Name, Image, & Likeness (NIL) support for student-athletes.
- What is the economic impact of Arizona’s community colleges?
- In fiscal year 2021-22, Arizona’s community colleges added $13.0 billion in income to the state’s economy and supported 183,448 jobs.
Pima Women’s Basketball Season Highlights (as of Jan. 18, 2026)
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Overall Record | 14-4 |
| Conference Record (ACCAC) | 6-2 |
| National Ranking | No. 12 |
| Latest Game Result | 74-65 win vs. Phoenix College (OT) |
| Overtime Performance (Latest Game) | Outscored Phoenix College 9-0 |
| NIL Program Status | First AZ Community College with Opendorse partnership |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Yavapai College Basketball Teams Enter Conference Play
Coach Tommy Lloyd Reaches 100 Wins with Arizona Athletics
Wildcats’ February Sports Surge in Southern Arizona
University of Arizona Wildcats Basketball Ascends in Rankings
University of Arizona Strengthens Leadership with New Chief of Staff Appointment
University of Arizona Men’s Basketball Retains No. 1 Spot
Business Visibility Group Expands Identity Clarity Programs in Phoenix
Arizona Republic Highlights Top School Basketball Teams
Pima Community College Women’s Basketball Triumphs Over Phoenix College
Top High School Girls’ Basketball Teams in Arizona
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
