Central High Advances in Arizona High School Basketball Playoffs

Bobcats down Arcadia 82-72 in Open Division first-round matchup

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Phoenix Central High School's boys basketball team defeated Arcadia High School 82-72 in the first round of the Arizona Open Division state playoffs. Central, the No. 21 seed, was led by John Mattingly's 31 points, but got key 3-pointers from John Fahrendorf and Der'ion Thomas down the stretch to hold off the No. 12 seed Arcadia squad.

Why it matters

The win keeps Central's season alive as they advance to the second round of the prestigious Open Division tournament, which features the top 32 teams in the state. Despite being a lower seed, Central has proven to be one of Arizona's top teams this season and this victory over Arcadia demonstrates their ability to win close games against quality opponents.

The details

Central trailed Arcadia for much of the game, but Fahrendorf and Thomas hit clutch 3-pointers in the fourth quarter to give the Bobcats the lead for good. Mattingly had 31 points, but made just one field goal in the final period. Central's Dominic Rojas fouled out late, but the team was able to hold on for the 82-72 victory.

  • The game was played on February 18, 2026.
  • Central will face No. 5 seed Phoenix Sandra Day O'Connor on February 20, 2026 in the second round.

The players

John Mattingly

A key player for Central High School who scored 31 points in the victory over Arcadia.

John Fahrendorf

A Central High School player who hit three crucial 3-pointers in the fourth quarter to help the Bobcats pull away.

Der'ion Thomas

A Central High School player who made a timely 3-pointer in the fourth quarter to extend the Bobcats' lead.

Dominic Rojas

A Central High School player who fouled out late in the game, but his teammates were able to finish off the victory.

Jacobi Thompson

A freshman forward for Arcadia High School who scored 26 points in the losing effort.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Just stay focused. I know I can hit my shot when it comes. I hit three tonight to close it out. That's what I need to do to help our team win.”

— John Fahrendorf (azcentral.com)

“These guys have been in big playoff games. They already know what they need to do in tough games like that. We've played like that all season.”

— John Mattingly (azcentral.com)

What’s next

Central will face No. 5 seed Phoenix Sandra Day O'Connor on February 20, 2026 in the second round of the Open Division state basketball tournament.

The takeaway

Despite being a lower seed, Central High School has proven to be one of Arizona's top basketball teams this season. Their ability to hit big shots down the stretch and win close games against quality opponents like Arcadia demonstrates their readiness for the challenges of the prestigious Open Division tournament.