Top ranked Sunnyslope hosts perennial contender Millennium in an Open Division boys basketball battle on Wednesday night. Arizona’s two powerhouse programs, both nationally ranked, will square off in a matchup loaded with star talent, program history, and major postseason implications.
Recent Form and Rankings
Both the Sunnyslope Vikings and Millennium Tigers enter the matchup playing at an elite level. Sunnyslope has powered through one of the toughest schedules in the country, building a 15–1 record while winning 13 straight games. The Vikings claimed titles at the Classic at Damien tournament in California and the Hoophall West event in Arizona. Their recent win over national power Bishop Gorman vaulted Sunnyslope into the national top 10, a ranking they backed up by defeating Wheeler of Georgia in the Hoophall West championship.
Junior center Darius Wabbington was dominant throughout the event, earning tournament MVP honors after posting 23 points and nine rebounds in the title game. Sunnyslope’s balance, defensive discipline, and physicality have separated them from most opponents in Arizona play.
Millennium has been nearly as impressive. The Tigers opened the season 12–1 and entered January ranked sixth nationally. They also made a deep run at Hoophall West, including a strong win over TMI Episcopal of Texas behind a balanced scoring effort. Senior wing Cameron Holmes led that game with 23 points, while freshman guard Adan Diggs added 21, showcasing the depth and versatility of Millennium’s roster.
Both teams sit near the top of the AIA Open Division rankings with identical in state records. The winner on Wednesday positions itself strongly for the No. 1 Open Division seed and potential home court advantage throughout the playoffs.
Star Players and Key Matchups
Sunnyslope’s offense runs through its inside out pairing of Darius Wabbington and junior point guard Delton Prescott III. Wabbington, a 6 foot 11 presence, controls the paint on both ends while also stepping out to knock down perimeter shots. Prescott brings speed and shot creation at the guard spot, giving Sunnyslope a dynamic scoring option off the dribble.
Senior guard Rider Portela provides steady leadership and decision making, while forwards Nash Parmley and Cristian Simmons supply length, rebounding, and defensive versatility. Sunnyslope’s size advantage is clear, and the Vikings will look to establish the post early.
Millennium counters with Cameron Holmes, one of Arizona’s most complete two way players. The 6 foot 6 senior scores at all three levels and often draws the toughest defensive assignment. Holmes averaged over 20 points per game and has delivered in big moments against Sunnyslope in the past.
The Tigers’ youth movement has added another dimension. Freshman guard Adan Diggs has emerged as a fearless scorer capable of creating his own shot, while freshman wing Trey McKinney provides length and athleticism on the perimeter. Junior point guard Adrian Higuera serves as the stabilizer, responsible for managing tempo and limiting mistakes in a hostile environment.
A critical matchup will be Millennium’s ability to defend Wabbington without sacrificing perimeter coverage. Expect the Tigers to defend the post by committee, using multiple bodies and quick help to avoid foul trouble. Wabbington’s passing out of double teams could determine how open Sunnyslope’s shooters become.
On the other end, Sunnyslope’s wing defenders will be tested by Holmes’ versatility. Parmley and Simmons will likely rotate defensive responsibilities, with help coming from the weak side. Containing Holmes without overcommitting will be a major challenge.
Tactical Keys to the Game
Tempo Control
Sunnyslope thrives in controlled, half court games built on defense and patience. Millennium is at its best when pushing pace and scoring in transition. If the Tigers can speed the game up, they gain a clear advantage. Sunnyslope will aim to slow the tempo, limit transition opportunities, and force Millennium to execute in the half court.
Perimeter Shooting
Both teams can score from deep, but consistency will matter. Sunnyslope’s guards are capable of streaky shooting, while Millennium’s young guards must prove they can knock down shots under pressure. Whichever team hits timely threes will likely dictate momentum.
Rebounding and Physicality
Sunnyslope’s size presents problems on the glass. Wabbington and Simmons generate second chance opportunities and wear opponents down. Millennium must rebound collectively, with Holmes and the guards helping inside. Giving Sunnyslope extra possessions could be fatal.
Depth and Composure
Sunnyslope’s bench brings experience, while Millennium’s rotation leans heavily on young contributors. How Millennium’s freshmen handle crowd noise and defensive pressure will be a major storyline. Coaching adjustments and timeout usage could swing key stretches of the game.
Rivalry and Program History
While not a traditional rivalry, Sunnyslope and Millennium have developed a competitive history over the past few seasons. The teams met three times last year, splitting regular season games before Sunnyslope edged Millennium in the Open Division semifinal. That defensive battle was decided late, with Sunnyslope locking down in the fourth quarter.
Millennium enters this matchup looking for redemption, while Sunnyslope aims to prove last season was no accident. Both programs are among the most respected in Arizona, with championship pedigrees and national recognition.
Sunnyslope has established itself as a modern powerhouse under head coach Ray Portela, collecting multiple state titles and an Open Division runner up finish last season. Millennium, now under new leadership, continues to reload with elite talent and remains a fixture in the state title conversation.
What Is at Stake
Beyond bragging rights, this game carries massive playoff implications. Open Division seeding is critical, and a win here could secure the inside track to the top seed. Both teams also understand this may be a preview of a postseason rematch, making every adjustment and possession valuable.
“Our focus is always on competing together and defending at a high level,” Portela said recently. “When we do that, we give ourselves a chance against anyone.”
Millennium head coach Rich Thornton echoed that mindset earlier this season, noting that his team wants to test itself against the best to prepare for March.
Outlook
Expect a packed gym and playoff level intensity. Sunnyslope’s experience and size give them a slight edge at home, but Millennium’s speed and offensive firepower make them dangerous in any setting. If Millennium controls tempo and hits shots early, the Tigers can seize momentum. If Sunnyslope dominates the paint and limits transition, the Vikings will dictate the game.
This matchup has all the ingredients of a classic. The final minutes may come down to rebounding, free throws, and execution under pressure. Regardless of the outcome, this game will leave a lasting mark on the Open Division race.
Tip off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Wednesday at Sunnyslope High School.
