The Pinnacle (Phoenix, AZ) varsity basketball team will play a neutral playoff game against Mesa (AZ) on Friday, February 28, at 7 p.m. This game is part of the “2025 AIA Boys Basketball State Championships (Arizona) – Conference 6A” tournament.

Pinnacle vs Mesa Game Info:

What: Arizona High School Basketball
Who: Pinnacle (AZ) vs Mesa (AZ)
When: Friday, February 28, 2025
Time: 7:00 p.m. ET
Bracket: 2025 AIA Boys Basketball State Championships (Arizona) – Conference 6A
Live stream: Watch here

Game preview: Pinnacle vs Mesa

As the basketball season progresses, fans eagerly anticipate the upcoming non-conference game between Mesa and Pinnacle. The game is set to take place on Friday, February 28, at 7:00 PM, at Mesa High School, and promises to showcase exciting high school basketball action. Both teams have had notable seasons, with Mesa showing stronger overall performance, while Pinnacle is looking to turn their season around. Let’s dive into the team statistics, player performances, and what to expect in this thrilling matchup.

Team Performance Overview

Mesa has had an impressive season with a record of 20-7 overall and 7-3 in region play. Their success is marked by a solid offensive output and strong team defense. Mesa averages 66.0 points per game, supported by their excellent rebounding (28.3 RPG) and passing (13.8 APG). Their offensive strength lies in the balance of scoring across all quarters, particularly their 19.7 PPG in Q3, showing their ability to break away late in games.

On the other hand, Pinnacle has had a more challenging season with a 10-17 record, including a 3-5 region record. Despite the struggles, Pinnacle has managed to maintain competitive games, with a modest scoring average of 56.8 PPG. They have averaged fewer rebounds (24.6 RPG) and assists (11.8 APG) compared to Mesa, but they tend to rally late in games, as evidenced by their impressive 26.7 PPG in Q4. The team has struggled with consistency throughout the season, especially away from home.

Key Players to Watch

Mesa’s Key Players:

• Jakyi Miles (19.7 PPG, 6.0 RPG): Miles is the heart of Mesa’s offense, providing consistent scoring and leadership.
• Daijon Grayson (3.9 APG, 3.1 SPG): Grayson is crucial in both facilitating the offense and contributing defensively.
• Brig Bowden (0.6 BPG): While not a dominant force in blocks, Bowden provides a solid presence in the paint.

Pinnacle’s Key Players:

• Ryan Nelson (12.9 PPG): Nelson is Pinnacle’s primary scorer, leading the team in points per game.
• Kareem Alkhalifa (5.2 RPG): Alkhalifa provides necessary rebounding support to help Pinnacle control the boards.
• Cam Hurt (3.6 APG, 1.6 SPG): Hurt contributes in key moments, facilitating offense and contributing on defense.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Looking at the head-to-head matchup, Mesa comes in with a 5-1 record against common opponents, including wins over strong teams like Valley Vista, Cibola, and Desert Vista. Pinnacle, meanwhile, holds a 3-2 record against common opponents, with notable victories over Cibola and Valley Vista, but also has some tough losses, including a close defeat to Desert Vista.

In terms of team stats, Mesa has a clear advantage, averaging 66.0 points per game, which is significantly higher than Pinnacle’s 56.8 PPG. Mesa also leads in rebounds, steals, and assists, further underlining their balanced, team-oriented approach. Pinnacle will need to step up their game, especially in rebounding and ball movement, to keep pace with the more efficient Mesa squad.

Record Breakdown

Both teams have had varying success at home, away, and neutral venues:

• Mesa is strong at home, boasting a 6-1 record in neutral games and a respectable 8-2 at home.
• Pinnacle has faced challenges away from home with a 4-8 away record but shows a strong neutral performance, holding a 2-0 playoff record.

What to Expect

This matchup will be pivotal for both teams, especially as Mesa looks to build momentum heading into their playoff push, and Pinnacle seeks to end their season on a high note. Mesa’s well-rounded play and offensive depth give them the edge, but Pinnacle’s ability to surge late in games should not be underestimated. The game promises to be competitive, and all eyes will be on key players like Jakyi Miles and Ryan Nelson to make a difference in crucial moments.

In conclusion, as these two Arizona high school basketball teams clash, Mesa will likely hold the upper hand based on their overall record and statistical advantages, but Pinnacle will certainly bring determination and the potential for surprises. Fans can expect an exciting, fast-paced game as both teams fight for victory in this non-conference matchup.