Flagstaff, AZ, January 11, 2026
The Coconino Panthers boys basketball team delivered a commanding performance against the Peoria Panthers in Flagstaff. This high school matchup showcased the talent and effort in Arizona’s prep sports. Coconino secured a decisive victory with a final score of 69-33, driven by star player Hashke Nelson’s impressive 27 points. The game highlighted the importance of teamwork, strategy, and community support in high school sports, reinforcing the development of character and leadership among student-athletes.
Flagstaff, AZ
The spirit of competition and dedication shone brightly on Friday night as the Coconino Panthers boys basketball team delivered a commanding performance against the Peoria Panthers. This Arizona high school basketball matchup, held in Flagstaff, captivated fans and showcased the talent and disciplined effort that define prep sports across the state. For fans following the broader Phoenix AZ high school basketball landscape, such games underscore the widespread excellence in youth athletics. These contests are more than just scoreboard results; they are proving grounds where young athletes cultivate character, leadership, and a profound sense of teamwork.
High school sports serve as a vital cornerstone in many Arizona communities, fostering a collective identity and providing a platform for student-athletes to learn invaluable life lessons. The commitment demonstrated by teams like Coconino and Peoria reflects countless hours of practice, strategic planning, and personal sacrifice. As these young men strive for excellence on the court, they embody the principles of hard work and sportsmanship, qualities that resonate far beyond the final buzzer and contribute positively to their future endeavors.
Coconino Dominates Peoria in Friday Night Matchup
The Coconino Panthers varsity boys basketball team secured a decisive victory over Peoria High School, concluding the game with a final score of 69-33 on Friday, January 9, 2026. The game, hosted at Coconino High School, highlighted the Flagstaff team’s strategic execution and robust defense. This win further cemented Coconino’s strong season, pushing their overall record to 11-3, with an unblemished 3-0 record in region play. The Peoria Panthers, despite their efforts, faced a tough challenge on the road, bringing their overall season record to 3-5.
Nelson’s Explosive Third Quarter Fuels Victory
A pivotal factor in Coconino’s dominant win was the exceptional play of senior guard/forward Hashke Nelson. Nelson delivered a standout performance, scoring an impressive 27 points. His scoring surge was particularly impactful in the third quarter, where he contributed 14 points, helping Coconino extend their lead and control the game’s momentum. Nelson, a senior listed at 5’8″, exemplifies the blend of skill and determination that drives success in high school basketball, demonstrating personal responsibility through his scoring prowess and leadership on the court.
Teamwork and Defensive Discipline Shine
While Nelson’s scoring was crucial, the Coconino Panthers’ victory was a testament to a cohesive team effort and disciplined play on both ends of the court. Senior guard/forward Gavin Greene and senior center/forward Oryon Huayhualla were notable for their presence in the paint, actively fighting for rebounds under the Peoria basket. This commitment to securing possessions and playing tough defense limited Peoria’s offensive opportunities and underscored the value of collective responsibility. The team’s ability to maintain defensive pressure and execute plays reflects solid coaching and the players’ dedication to a unified strategy.
Building Character Through Arizona Prep Sports
High school athletic programs across Arizona, including those at Coconino and Peoria, are instrumental in developing well-rounded individuals. The discipline required for rigorous practice schedules, the resilience to overcome setbacks, and the teamwork necessary for collective success are all character-building elements inherent in prep sports. Coconino’s strong showing against Peoria illustrates how focused effort and a commitment to personal growth can translate into success on the court and prepare athletes for future challenges. Such experiences instill confidence, foster leadership skills, and teach young people the profound impact of working together towards a common goal.
Community Engagement and School Pride
The excitement generated by a hard-fought game like the battle between the Panthers of Coconino and Peoria extends beyond the gym walls, invigorating the local community. These high school sports events are often a source of immense school pride, drawing families, alumni, and local businesses together. The support from fans creates an electric atmosphere, boosting morale for the athletes and strengthening community identity. This engagement also offers organic opportunities for local sponsorships and fan involvement, further enriching the athletic programs and providing resources that contribute to student-athletes’ development and overall experience. Such community ties are vital for the continued growth and success of Arizona prep sports.
A Glimpse into the Future of Arizona High School Basketball
Coconino’s dominant performance against Peoria sends a clear message about their aspirations for the remainder of the season. Currently ranked #48 in Arizona and #10 in Arizona Division 4A, the Panthers are positioned as a formidable force in State-level prep sports. Their consistent play, highlighted by their victory against Peoria, suggests a team with the focus and talent to contend in the fiercely competitive Arizona prep sports scene. As the season progresses, fans are encouraged to continue supporting their local high school athletes, witnessing firsthand the dedication and passion that make these events so special across Arizona.
We encourage you to attend upcoming Phoenix AZ high school basketball games, support your local athletic programs, and follow HEREPhoenix.com for more stories celebrating the hard work, competitive spirit, and character development found in Arizona prep sports.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of the Coconino vs. Peoria boys basketball game?
The Coconino Varsity Boys Basketball team defeated Peoria High School with a final score of 69-33.
When and where did the Coconino vs. Peoria game take place?
The game was a home non-conference game for Coconino at Coconino High School in Flagstaff, AZ, on Friday, January 9, 2026, at 7:00 PM.
Who was the top scorer for Coconino in the game against Peoria?
Hashke Nelson was the top scorer for Coconino, contributing 27 points.
How many points did Hashke Nelson score in the third quarter?
Hashke Nelson scored 14 points in the third quarter of the game.
What is Coconino’s overall record after this game?
Coconino’s overall record is 11-3, with a 3-0 record in region play.
What is Coconino’s ranking in Arizona high school basketball?
Coconino is ranked #48 in Arizona and #10 in Arizona Division 4A.
Key Features of the Coconino vs. Peoria Basketball Game
| Feature | Detail | Geographic Scope |
|---|---|---|
| Winning Team | Coconino Panthers | State-level |
| Losing Team | Peoria Panthers | State-level |
| Final Score | Coconino 69, Peoria 33 | State-level |
| Game Date | Friday, January 9, 2026 | State-level |
| Game Location | Coconino High School, Flagstaff, AZ | State-level |
| Top Scorer (Coconino) | Hashke Nelson (27 points) | State-level |
| Nelson’s 3rd Quarter Points | 14 points | State-level |
| Coconino Overall Record | 11-3 | State-level |
| Coconino Region Record | 3-0 | State-level |
| Peoria Overall Record | 3-5 | State-level |
| Coconino AZ Ranking | #48 (overall Arizona), #10 (Arizona Division 4A) | State-level |
| Key Coconino Players Mentioned | Gavin Greene, Oryon Huayhualla | State-level |
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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.
