Phoenix, Arizona, February 4, 2026
Grand Canyon University’s men’s basketball team achieved a strong 81-57 victory over Air Force, highlighting the athletic prowess of the Phoenix institution. The game showcased the Antelopes’ ability to maintain an early lead and effectively execute their strategy, while Air Force demonstrated resilience and potential, particularly from their freshman players. This matchup not only draws attention to competitive sports in Arizona but also emphasizes the impact of university athletics on the local economy and community engagement.
Phoenix, AZ —
Grand Canyon University Triumphs Over Air Force, Showcasing Phoenix’s Athletic Vitality
Grand Canyon University’s men’s basketball team secured a decisive 81-57 victory over Air Force on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, at the Global Credit Union Arena in Phoenix, Arizona. This commanding performance not only highlights the Antelopes’ competitive strength but also underscores the robust and growing athletic landscape within the state, driven by both institutional commitment and private sector engagement. The contest, which saw Grand Canyon establish an early lead and maintain it throughout, is a testament to the focused development of university sports programs contributing to the local community’s vibrancy and economic dynamism.
The game served as another example of how athletic endeavors, nurtured by strategic investment and community support, cultivate a spirit of healthy competition and achievement. While Air Force displayed determination in the second half, Grand Canyon’s consistent execution secured the win, reflecting the benefits of sustained program development and local enthusiasm.
Competitive Spirit Ignites Local Economy
The presence of thriving university athletic programs like Grand Canyon University contributes significantly to the economic vitality of Phoenix and the broader Arizona region. Grand Canyon University, for instance, has been identified as a major economic driver, contributing an annual economic impact of $2.1 billion in fiscal year 2020 and supporting approximately 17,690 jobs in west Phoenix through its operations and partnerships. This demonstrates how success on the court translates into tangible benefits for local residents and businesses, fostering a virtuous cycle of investment and growth. Furthermore, GCU has launched 10 business enterprises, creating over 500 job opportunities, showcasing a multifaceted approach to community prosperity beyond athletic events.
Arizona’s sports industry overall is a powerful economic engine, with a recent report indicating that major events like the Cactus League, Phoenix Open, and Super Bowls generate between $180 million and $1.3 billion in economic impact per event. Even medium-scale events, such as NCAA Championships, contribute substantially, ranging from $67 million to $324.5 billion in economic impact. These figures underscore the significant role that organized sports, from collegiate competition to large-scale professional events, play in stimulating local commerce and job creation across the state.
Investment and Innovation in Arizona Athletics
The success of athletic programs in Arizona is not solely dependent on ticket sales but is bolstered by strategic private investment and innovative funding models. Grand Canyon University itself operates efficiently as a nonprofit institution, demonstrating a model that does not rely heavily on traditional endowments or state taxpayer subsidies. Instead, it has reinvested nearly $2 billion into academic infrastructure without increasing tuition for 17 consecutive years, while also sourcing athletic program investments from existing and new revenue streams, including corporate sponsorships and ticket sales. This commitment to fiscal responsibility and self-reliance allows for sustained growth and competitiveness.
Private initiatives also extend to community development, exemplifying the spirit of entrepreneurship and self-reliance. The Fiesta Sports Foundation, in partnership with entities like Amazon and the College Football Playoff Foundation, recently allocated $150,000 in “school wishes” to three Arizona Title 1 schools. This program, now in its tenth year, has distributed a record $1.5 million in classroom grants to 540 Arizona educators, with total donations exceeding $9.7 million to Arizona classrooms over the last decade. Such investments directly impact future generations, fostering educational environments that complement athletic and personal development.
Further exemplifying private sector engagement, Russell Westbrook Enterprises has invested in the Arizona Athletic Grounds in Mesa, Arizona. This initiative focuses on developing basketball programming and engaging the community through the Why Not? Foundation, aiming to serve at-risk youth in the Phoenix Valley area. This premier youth sports and entertainment facility welcomes over 4 million visitors annually, offering a wide array of athletic programming for both youth and adults, showcasing the power of private capital in building community assets. Phoenix College Athletics also generates revenue, making a profit of $87,821, which supports student success through scholarships and vital program needs, illustrating localized entrepreneurial success within collegiate sports.
Falcons’ Perseverance and Development
Despite the loss, the Air Force Falcons demonstrated significant resolve, particularly in the second half where they outscored Grand Canyon. Freshman forward Riley Dering delivered a career-high 15 points, alongside five rebounds, showcasing emerging talent for the Falcons. Lucas Hobin added 12 points and Ethan Greenberg contributed 11 points, with freshmen collectively accounting for 47 points for Air Force. This highlights the continuous development of young athletes within the Air Force Academy’s rigorous program.
The Air Force Academy emphasizes a holistic approach to cadet development, where physical strength and mental fortitude are equally valued. Every cadet is expected to participate in Division I intercollegiate sports or intramural teams, integrating physical education into the curriculum. Athletics are seen as critical for leadership development, fostering courage, initiative, camaraderie, and the will to win. Beyond competition, Air Force Athletics actively engages in community outreach, promoting servant-leadership among its cadet-athletes in Colorado Springs and the surrounding community. This commitment to service and personal excellence extends beyond the playing field, reflecting the Academy’s core values.
Looking Ahead: Sustained Growth in Arizona Sports
The recent basketball matchup between Grand Canyon and Air Force, alongside broader trends in athletic and private investment, solidifies Arizona’s position as a dynamic hub for sports and community development. The commitment from institutions like Grand Canyon University and the ongoing support from private foundations and investors demonstrate a robust ecosystem that values both competitive excellence and civic responsibility. As Arizona continues to attract and foster athletic talent and events, the synergistic relationship between university programs, private enterprise, and community engagement will undoubtedly drive further growth and opportunity. Residents are encouraged to support their local college sports teams and the various initiatives that invest in the state’s athletic and educational infrastructure, contributing to the collective prosperity of the Phoenix metropolitan area and beyond.
FAQ Section
- What was the final score of the Air Force vs. Grand Canyon men’s basketball game?
- Grand Canyon defeated Air Force 81-57.
- When did the game take place?
- The game took place on Tuesday, February 3, 2026.
- Where was the game played?
- The game was played at the Global Credit Union Arena in Phoenix, Arizona.
- Who was the leading scorer for Air Force?
- Freshman forward Riley Dering led Air Force with a career-high 15 points.
- What was the halftime score?
- Grand Canyon led Air Force 48-18 at halftime.
- What is the economic impact of Grand Canyon University on Phoenix?
- Grand Canyon University and its partners created an economic impact of $2.1 billion in fiscal year 2020 and supported 17,690 jobs in west Phoenix.
- How much has the Fiesta Sports Foundation invested in Arizona schools?
- The Fiesta Sports Foundation has awarded $150,000 in school wishes to three Arizona Title 1 schools and provided $1.5 million in classroom grants to 540 Arizona educators this year. Over 10 years, the Foundation has donated over $9.7 million to Arizona classrooms.
Game Highlights & Team Statistics
| Category | Grand Canyon Antelopes | Air Force Falcons |
|---|---|---|
| Final Score | 81 | 57 |
| Halftime Score | 48 | 18 |
| Team Record (Mountain West) | 15-7 (8-3) | 3-19 (0-11) |
| Leading Scorer | Brian Moore Jr. (15 pts), Makaih Williams (15 pts) | Riley Dering (15 pts) |
| Notable Individual Performance (Air Force) | Jaden Henley (13 pts, 6 reb, 6 ast) | Lucas Hobin (12 pts), Ethan Greenberg (11 pts) |
| Freshmen Points (Air Force) | N/A | 47 |
| Losing Streak (Air Force) | N/A | 15th straight loss |
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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.
