Tucson High's defense dominates in matchup against Salpointe

Badgers win fifth straight game, take down Lancers 72-55 on the road

Feb. 7, 2026 at 7:55am

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Tucson High School's boys basketball team continued its strong run, winning its fifth straight game with a 72-55 road victory over Salpointe Catholic on Thursday night. The Badgers put on a defensive masterclass, disrupting the Lancers' passing lanes, double- and triple-teaming their playmakers, and forcing them to take difficult shots and commit costly turnovers.

Why it matters

This win keeps Tucson High in the hunt for a strong finish to the season, as they look to build momentum heading into the playoffs. The Badgers' stifling defense was the key to the victory, showcasing their ability to shut down opposing offenses.

The details

Tucson High sophomore Jaylan Knight led the team in scoring with 19 points, most of which came in a dominant second quarter performance. Senior Malaki Cunningham-Hiadzi also had a strong game, imposing his will in the paint and finishing with 15 points. The Badgers took a 34-25 lead at halftime and continued to pull away in the second half, using their fast-break offense to extend the advantage.

  • The game was played on Thursday, February 6, 2026.
  • Tucson High will host Marana on Tuesday, February 11, 2026 at 7 p.m. for a 6A South matchup.
  • Salpointe Catholic will travel to Sahuaro on Friday, February 7, 2026 for a 4A Kino matchup.

The players

Jaylan Knight

A sophomore player for the Tucson High Badgers who led the team in scoring with 19 points.

Malaki Cunningham-Hiadzi

A senior player for the Tucson High Badgers who had 15 points and dominated the paint.

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What they’re saying

“It felt good to come in here and get a dub (win) because everyone knows this is our trap (city). This is Tucson.”

— Jaylan Knight, Sophomore, Tucson High Badgers (AllSportsTucson.com)

“We wanted this game. We knew what we wanted, and we took it. That's what we do, when we want something, we get it.”

— Malaki Cunningham-Hiadzi, Senior, Tucson High Badgers (AllSportsTucson.com)

What’s next

Tucson High will host Marana on Tuesday, February 11, 2026 at 7 p.m. for a 6A South matchup, looking to continue their winning streak. Salpointe Catholic will travel to Sahuaro on Friday, February 7, 2026 for a 4A Kino matchup.

The takeaway

Tucson High's stifling defense was the key to their victory, as they were able to disrupt Salpointe Catholic's offense and force them into difficult shots and turnovers. The Badgers' ability to shut down opposing teams has been a major factor in their strong run of form, and they will look to continue this success as they head into the final stretch of the season.