Salem, Oregon, December 25, 2025
The St. Mary’s Knights of Phoenix, Arizona, demonstrated their skills and competitive spirit securing a second-place finish at the Capitol City Classic basketball tournament in Salem, Oregon. Known for their resilience and teamwork, the Knights faced tough competition and showcased their talent on a national stage. Despite a challenging championship game against a ranked team from Louisiana, the Knights made a memorable 13-0 run, proving their determination. This experience not only highlights their athletic prowess but also the strong support from the Phoenix community in high school sports.
St. Mary’s Battles to Runner-Up Finish in Capitol City Classic
The St. Mary’s Knights of Phoenix, Arizona, showcased their formidable talent and competitive spirit on a national stage, securing a hard-fought second-place finish at the prestigious Capitol City Classic boys basketball tournament in Salem, Oregon.
Phoenix Pride on the National Stage
The vibrant high school sports scene in Phoenix, Arizona, continually produces dedicated athletes and strong programs, fostering an environment where competition and character development go hand in hand. St. Mary’s Catholic High School, known for its commitment to excellence both on and off the court, recently represented the Grand Canyon State with distinction at the 10th edition of the Capitol City Classic. This tournament, held in Salem, Oregon, draws top-tier talent from across the nation, providing an invaluable platform for young athletes to test their mettle against diverse playing styles and formidable opponents. The Knights’ journey to the championship game underscored the resilience, teamwork, and personal responsibility that are hallmarks of successful athletic programs.
Participating in events like the Capitol City Classic offers more than just a chance for athletic glory; it provides market-driven opportunities that strengthen community identity. Local businesses, through sponsorships and support, become integral partners in these athletic endeavors, fostering school pride and enhancing fan engagement. These experiences, especially when competing against out-of-state teams, highlight the dedication of Phoenix AZ high school basketball programs and the unwavering support of their communities.
Knights’ Impressive Tournament Run
St. Mary’s entered the Capitol City Classic with a strong record, demonstrating their readiness for elite competition. Their path through the tournament showcased their discipline and strategic play, culminating in a spot in the final championship game. The Knights’ roster, featuring standout athletes, demonstrated a blend of individual skill and cohesive teamwork. Prior to the championship game, St. Mary’s had an impressive 7-1 record.
Notably, senior Cameron Williams, a five-star power forward prospect from St. Mary’s (AZ), was highlighted as one of the top recruits playing in the 2025 Capitol City Classic. He is projected as a top-three selection in the 2027 NBA draft. Additionally, senior guard Brody Postorino, who averaged 16 points per game in 2024-25, also contributed significantly to the Knights’ success. The Knights had also won the Arizona 4A state championship in the previous year.
Championship Showdown Against Ruston
The championship game pitted St. Mary’s against Ruston (LA), a highly-ranked team from Louisiana. Ruston, ranked No. 4 in the High School On SI Louisiana Top 25 rankings, brought a competitive 5-1 record into the final. The game was a true test of endurance and skill, with both teams displaying exceptional commitment to their craft.
Ruston ultimately secured the Capitol City Classic championship, holding off St. Mary’s (AZ) with a final score of 64-61 in Salem, Oregon. The contest was a thrilling back-and-forth affair that saw Ruston leading 50-38 going into the fourth quarter. However, the Knights mounted an impressive 13-0 run to briefly take a 51-50 lead, showcasing their tenacity and refusal to yield.
Key Performances and Learning Moments
For Ruston, dual-sport standout Ahmad Hudson delivered a remarkable performance, contributing 20 points, 17 rebounds, and six blocked shots. Darren Ford led Ruston in scoring with 21 points, adding eight rebounds and five assists, earning game MVP honors. Ford also made critical free throws in the closing moments to help seal Ruston’s victory.
While the final score did not favor the Phoenix contingent, the experience gained from competing in such a high-stakes environment is invaluable. Players learn the importance of maintaining focus under pressure, adapting to their opponents’ strategies, and executing their game plan even when momentum shifts. These are the moments that truly build character and leadership, preparing young athletes not just for future games but for life’s challenges. The St. Mary’s Knights, despite the loss, demonstrated their ability to compete at an elite level, affirming their position as a top Arizona prep sports program.
Community Support and Future Aspirations
The journey to the Capitol City Classic, and the spirited performance once there, would not be possible without the robust support system surrounding St. Mary’s High School. From dedicated coaches who instill discipline and teamwork, to supportive parents, enthusiastic fans, and local businesses that champion high school sports, the entire Phoenix community plays a vital role. These engagements foster a sense of collective identity and shared pride, reinforcing the idea that success in sports is a community effort.
As the St. Mary’s Knights return to Phoenix, they carry with them the lessons learned and the experience gained from competing against some of the best high school basketball teams in the nation. This experience will undoubtedly serve as a catalyst for continued growth and improvement throughout their season. The commitment to personal responsibility, the pursuit of excellence, and the embrace of competitive challenges are central to the spirit of Arizona prep sports.
Looking Ahead for Phoenix AZ High School Basketball
The performance of St. Mary’s at the Capitol City Classic is a testament to the strength and potential within Phoenix AZ high school basketball. It serves as a powerful reminder of how competitive athletics offer unique opportunities for personal development, leadership cultivation, and community cohesion. Every game, every practice, and every tournament contributes to shaping young men and women into responsible citizens and future leaders.
We encourage all HEREPhoenix.com readers to continue supporting our local high school athletic programs. Attend games, cheer on our athletes, and celebrate the incredible dedication and talent on display right here in our city. Stay tuned to HEREPhoenix.com for more engaging stories, factual reporting, and uplifting coverage of the best in Phoenix AZ high school sports. Your support helps build strong teams, strong schools, and a strong community.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the outcome of the Capitol City Classic boys basketball tournament for St. Mary’s (AZ)?
- St. Mary’s (AZ) finished as the runner-up in the Capitol City Classic boys basketball tournament, losing to Ruston (LA) in the championship game.
- What was the final score of the championship game between Ruston (LA) and St. Mary’s (AZ)?
- Ruston (LA) defeated St. Mary’s (AZ) with a final score of 64-61 in the championship game.
- Where was the Capitol City Classic tournament held?
- The Capitol City Classic boys basketball tournament was held in Salem, Oregon.
- What was St. Mary’s (AZ)’s record before the championship game?
- Before the championship game, St. Mary’s (AZ) had a record of 7-1.
- Who were some of the standout players for St. Mary’s (AZ) mentioned for the tournament?
- Senior Cameron Williams, a five-star power forward prospect, and senior guard Brody Postorino, who averaged 16 points per game in 2024-25, were mentioned as standout players for St. Mary’s (AZ).
Key Features of the Capitol City Classic Championship
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Tournament Name | Capitol City Classic boys basketball tournament |
| Winning Team | Ruston (LA) |
| Runner-Up Team | St. Mary’s (AZ) |
| Final Score | Ruston (LA) 64, St. Mary’s (AZ) 61 |
| Location | Salem, Oregon |
| Ruston (LA) Ranking | No. 4 in the High School On SI Louisiana Top 25 rankings |
| St. Mary’s (AZ) Ranking (State-level) | No. 6 in Arizona |
| St. Mary’s (AZ) Key Players Mentioned | Senior Cameron Williams, senior guard Brody Postorino |
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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.
