The 2022 Arizona Preps Summer Clash is such a high level event that it has attracted teams from the Canyon Athletic Association and Grind Session. We are pleased to have Southern Arizona Prep competing in our field of (16) teams. They compete in the CAA Open Division and the Grind Session. Head Coach Vince Lombardi has built a powerhouse program in the Tucson Area, nearly overnight. Here is the Q&A from our conversation:
Q: What was your overall record last season?
A: For our inaugural season, we finished the year 14-4.
Q: How deep into the playoffs did you and your team go?
A: We made the Final Four in the Canyon Athletic Association’s Open Division - falling to Bella Vista Prep.
Q: How does it feel to be invited to the 2nd Annual Arizona Preps Summer Clash? What makes this event stand out to you and your girls?
A: We are so excited to be in the Summer Clash! We love the opportunity to compete against some of the top teams in the state. It really helps give us an idea of what next season’s team will be like - the strengths, the weaknesses and where we are as a program.
Q: Who are your top players to watch for? Do they have college offers?
A: Achol Magot (2023 - pictured). The 6-foot-7 post is really starting to emerge as one of the top recruits in AZ. She currently has an offer from Texas Tech, and is being recruited by several other D-I schools. She is a dominating rebounder and shot blocker, and can finish a high percentage of her touches in the post.
Amelie Buffill (2023) is one of the most underrated point guards in the state. The slashing, penetrating guard is fearless going to the hoop, and can finish in spectacular fashion. She also has deep range on her jump shot. She is getting interest from low level D-1 schools and D-2 schools.
Mirella Funari (2023) is one of the top-rated guards in her class, and is an all-around player that can handle the ball, run the point, shoot from all over the floor and plays tremendous defense. She is being recruited by several D-2 and D-3 schools.
AJ Lual (2024) The 6-foot-5 Center/Forward is still developing, but showing improvement almost daily. She can run the floor well, is long and can rebound. Her upside is unlimited. She is getting interest from D-1 schools.
Q: What is the goal for your team heading into this summer?
A: The goal for our team is to continue to improve and get in a lot of games together, so that we can continue to gell and build chemistry. The Open Division of the CAA is extremely competitive, and it’s going to get tougher next year, so preparing for the very challenging upcoming season will be our main focus.
We are excited to have the Lady Vols competing in the Summer Clash, as their roster is loaded with some of the top prospects in the state. They will be one of the tougher teams in the field, as they have a lot of athleticism and size. Coach Lombardi has done a phenomenal job with his team, and we are grateful to have them compete in our event.
