Millennium High School boys basketball entered the 2025 to 2026 season with expectations that few programs in Arizona can match. As January 24 approaches, the Tigers have done nothing to shy away from that pressure. Instead, they have embraced it, building one of the strongest resumes in the state while positioning themselves firmly in the Open Division title conversation.
Under first year head coach Rich Thornton, Millennium has blended elite talent with structure and toughness, producing consistent results against top level competition both in state and nationally.
A Season Built on High Level Competition
Millennium has spent the season challenging itself early and often. The Tigers scheduled aggressively, facing elite programs across multiple states while also navigating one of the most competitive regions in Arizona.
Notable wins include victories over TMI Episcopal, Desert Vista, and multiple out of state opponents during the winter tournament stretch. Even in defeat, Millennium has shown its level. Losses to Sunnyslope and Wheeler of Georgia were tightly contested games that came down to execution in the final minutes.
Those performances have mattered. As of January 24, Millennium sits near the top of Arizona power rankings and comfortably inside the Open Division field. The Tigers have not relied on blowouts or favorable matchups. Their record reflects consistency against strong opponents and the ability to compete when the margin is thin.
“We want to see where we are,” Thornton said earlier this season. “You only find that out by playing the best teams.”
Star Power Meets Balance
Millennium’s roster features one of the most talented cores in the state, led by sophomore guard Adan Diggs and junior wing Cameron Holmes.
Diggs has emerged as one of the most impactful players in Arizona regardless of class. His ability to score, defend, and control tempo has changed games on both ends of the floor. Thornton has repeatedly praised Diggs’ maturity and approach.
“He’s special, but what makes him different is how hard he works every day,” Thornton said. “He wants to defend, he wants to win, and he brings others with him.”
Holmes, a University of Arizona commit, provides a steady veteran presence. At six foot six, he can score at all three levels while guarding multiple positions. His experience in big moments has been critical in close games, especially when defenses focus heavily on Diggs.
Millennium has also received key contributions from its supporting cast. Seniors and role players have filled their roles consistently, whether it is controlling the glass, knocking down open shots, or defending elite scorers. The Tigers do not rely on one player to carry the load, which has allowed them to maintain balance throughout the season.
Defensive Identity Under New Leadership
One of the most noticeable changes under Thornton has been Millennium’s defensive commitment. The Tigers have placed an emphasis on ball pressure, discipline, and communication, often forcing opponents into difficult possessions late in games.
That defensive focus showed itself in close wins and narrow losses alike. Millennium has repeatedly held opponents below their season scoring averages, even against nationally ranked teams.
“Our defense has to travel,” Thornton said. “If we defend, everything else takes care of itself.”
That approach has resonated with the roster. Players have bought into defending as a group, understanding that stops lead to rhythm on offense and confidence across the floor.
Open Division Positioning
With the regular season moving toward its final month, Millennium is firmly positioned as one of the top Open Division contenders. Their strength of schedule, quality wins, and ranking profile make them a near lock for the thirty two team Open Division bracket.
More importantly, the Tigers are in position to earn a high seed, which would provide home court advantage in the early rounds. With marquee matchups still ahead, including rematches against elite opponents, Millennium has opportunities to strengthen that position even further.
Players are aware of what is at stake, but the focus has remained internal.
“We’re trying to get better every day,” Diggs said recently. “The rankings will take care of themselves if we do that.”
What Comes Next
Millennium’s remaining schedule offers little margin for error. Region games, rivalry matchups, and postseason seeding all loom as February approaches. The Tigers understand that every possession now matters more than ever.
Still, confidence remains high inside the program. Millennium has proven it can compete with anyone in the state and beyond. With a blend of youth, experience, and defensive identity, the Tigers are built for the demands of the Open Division.
As of January 24, Millennium is exactly where it expects to be. Dangerous, respected, and still chasing more.
