One of Pinal County’s most cherished holiday traditions is the Central Arizona Holiday Classic, hosted by Casa Grande Union High School. This tournament has become a hallmark event for the local community, and I’m proud to have been part of its origins. Back when I was coaching, I served as an Assistant Coach at Casa Grande Union High School. During that time, I collaborated with Athletic Director Randy Robbins, who gave me his blessing to help organize a tournament that would bring the Central Arizona community together through the love of basketball.
Our vision for the event was clear: to create a platform where student-athletes could compete at a high level while showcasing their talents in a location that was easily accessible to teams from across the state. With Casa Grande Union High School conveniently situated near the North and South Interstate 10 and Interstate 8 from the West, it provided the perfect central hub for participants and spectators alike.
Fast forward to 2024, and the tournament continues to thrive under the leadership of Head Coach Chad Howell. This season’s lineup includes 12 competitive teams, representing a blend of local talent and schools from across Arizona. Among the Pinal County participants are Desert Sunrise, Maricopa, Poston Butte, and Vista Grande. Southern Arizona will be represented by Walden Grove, Sunnyside, and Desert View, while teams from the Phoenix area include NFL Yet, Eastmark, Tempe, and Marcos de Niza.
Over the years, the tournament has expanded its reach, attracting teams from beyond Arizona. Notable past participants have included Mid-Pacific Institute from Hawaii, Northfield High School from Colorado, and Ogallala High School from Nebraska. These teams have added a dynamic and competitive edge to the event, further solidifying its reputation as Central Arizona’s premier high school basketball tournament.
This year, I’m thrilled to be providing media coverage and volunteering to support the event. It’s deeply rewarding to see how far the tournament has come since its inception. Being part of its creation and operation was one of the most fulfilling experiences of my career, and it’s heartwarming to see the tradition continue.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to Randy Robbins for his initial support and to Chad Howell for keeping the tournament alive and thriving. The Central Arizona Holiday Classic remains a cornerstone of the Central Arizona basketball community, and in my eyes, it’s still the best tournament in the region.
