Arizona's Top High School Girls Basketball Players Honored

Fans vote for player of the week from Feb. 23-28

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The Arizona Republic has recognized the top high school girls basketball players in the state for the week ending February 28, 2026. Coaches provided input on standout performances, and fans can now vote for the player of the week in an online poll.

Why it matters

High school sports are an important part of many communities in Arizona, and recognizing the achievements of top student-athletes helps celebrate their hard work and inspire the next generation of players.

The details

The top performers include America Cazares of Tucson Pueblo, who set the Arizona all-time scoring record with 39 points, 15 rebounds and 5 steals in a close loss. Other standouts were Audrey Neill of Joseph City, who earned MVP honors in the 1A state championship game, and several other players who made key contributions in state title games across different divisions.

  • The poll will close at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 5.
  • The performances recognized were from the week ending on February 28, 2026.

The players

America Cazares

A senior at Tucson Pueblo who set the Arizona all-time scoring record with 39 points, 15 rebounds and 5 steals in a close loss in the 5A quarterfinals.

Audrey Neill

A senior at Joseph City who recorded a double-double with 33 points and 11 rebounds, earning MVP honors in the 1A state championship game.

Jordan Tsinajinnie

A freshman at St. Johns who had 14 points, 8 rebounds, 4 steals and 2 assists in the 2A state championship game, being named MVP.

Layla Curtis

A freshman at Tuba City who had 16 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists in the Copper Division state championship game, earning MVP honors.

Tahjie Freeman

A freshman at Phoenix North who scored 25 points, including the go-ahead basket with 12 seconds left, in a 5A quarterfinal win.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The poll to determine the player of the week will close at 6 p.m. on Thursday, March 5.

The takeaway

This recognition of top high school girls basketball players in Arizona highlights the impressive talent and dedication of student-athletes across the state, inspiring the next generation of players and celebrating the important role of high school sports in local communities.