Tempe, Arizona, December 7, 2025
The Basha Bears triumphed over the Chandler Wolves with a decisive 34-7 victory at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, Arizona. This win marks the Bears’ second Open Division title, showcasing a standout performance from both their offense and defense. Key moments included a pivotal kickoff return by a junior receiver and strong contributions from the quarterback and running back, allowing Basha to maintain control throughout the game. As they celebrate this championship victory, the Bears highlight the strength of their school’s athletic program and the Chandler Unified School District.
Chandler, Arizona – Basha Bears Clinch Open Division Championship with 34-7 Victory Over Chandler Wolves
In a decisive performance, the Basha Bears secured the Arizona Open Division state championship by defeating the Chandler Wolves 34-7 on Saturday night at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, Arizona. This victory marks Basha’s second Open Division title, their first since 2022.
Key Highlights
- Dominant Defense: Basha’s defense limited Chandler to a season-low 224 yards of offense, effectively neutralizing the Wolves’ attack throughout the game.
- Offensive Standouts: Quarterback Jake Rogers completed 17 of 24 passes for 242 yards and a touchdown, while running back Noah Roberts contributed significantly to the Bears’ offensive success.
- Special Teams Impact: Junior receiver Gio Richardson made a pivotal 92-yard kickoff return for a touchdown, providing a crucial momentum shift in the third quarter.
Game Recap
The Bears took control early, establishing a 17-0 lead by halftime. In the third quarter, Richardson’s explosive kickoff return extended Basha’s advantage. Chandler responded with an 80-yard drive culminating in a 3-yard touchdown run by quarterback Will Mencl, narrowing the gap to 24-7. However, Basha’s defense remained steadfast, preventing any further scoring opportunities for the Wolves. In the fourth quarter, Basha’s offense added another touchdown, solidifying their commanding lead and securing the championship.
Season Overview
Throughout the season, Basha demonstrated resilience and determination. After a narrow 19-16 victory over Liberty in the Open semifinals, the Bears faced Chandler in the championship game. Their performance in the final showcased their growth and commitment, culminating in a well-deserved state championship.
Looking Ahead
This victory not only brings the Open Division title back to Basha but also highlights the strength of the Chandler Unified School District, with both Basha and Chandler reaching the championship game. The Bears’ success serves as a testament to the district’s commitment to excellence in high school athletics.
Key Features of the Arizona Open Division Championship Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Basha Bears 34, Chandler Wolves 7 |
| Location | Mountain America Stadium, Tempe, Arizona |
| Key Players | Jake Rogers (QB), Noah Roberts (RB), Gio Richardson (WR) |
| Defensive Performance | Limited Chandler to 224 yards of offense |
| Special Teams Highlight | Gio Richardson’s 92-yard kickoff return touchdown |
| Season Record | Basha Bears 12-1 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the final score of the Arizona Open Division state championship game?
The Basha Bears defeated the Chandler Wolves 34-7 in the Arizona Open Division state championship game.
Where was the championship game held?
The game took place at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, Arizona.
Who were the standout players in the game?
Quarterback Jake Rogers and running back Noah Roberts were key contributors to Basha’s offensive success, while the defense effectively limited Chandler’s offense to 224 yards.
How did Basha secure their victory?
Basha established an early lead, extended it with a pivotal 92-yard kickoff return touchdown by Gio Richardson, and maintained control throughout the game, preventing Chandler from scoring after their initial touchdown.
What does this victory mean for Basha High School?
This championship marks Basha’s second Open Division title, their first since 2022, and highlights the strength of the Chandler Unified School District in high school athletics.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Vote for High School Athletes of the Week in Phoenix
Basha Bears Halt Liberty’s Dominance in High School Football
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.
