In what has quickly become one of the most compelling high school basketball rivalries in Arizona this season, the Millennium Tigers leveled the season series with the Sunnyslope Vikings Tuesday night in a heart pounding overtime victory. The clash at Millennium High School lived up to its preseason hype, drawing a near-capacity crowd and showcasing two nationally elite programs.
After falling in the first meeting back in January, a 61–57 loss in Phoenix where Sunnyslope overcame an early 13-point deficit to snatch the win, Millennium (20–3 overall, 6–1 in region) answered emphatically in Game 2 with a 77–71 overtime triumph.
From the opening tip, the intensity was unmistakable. Both squads traded blows throughout regulation, neither willing to cede more than a small margin. Millennium’s balanced attack and disciplined defense, guided by first year head coach Rich Thornton, kept them within striking distance of the nationally ranked Vikings.
Sunnyslope, ranked among the top teams in the country, put up a fierce fight, led by standout performers like junior big man Darius Wabbington and senior guard Rider Portela in both contests this season. But this time, the Tigers demanded a different outcome.
With the game knotted at 64-64 at the end of regulation, and both teams having traded leads throughout, the drama spilled into overtime. In the extra period, Millennium seized control. Defensive plays at crucial moments, including a key steal by junior forward DJ Spencer, swung momentum and allowed Millennium to build a slim advantage.
Senior guard Cameron Holmes delivered down the stretch, finishing as the game’s top scorer and making a pivotal blocked shot that helped seal the outcome. As the final buzzer sounded, Millennium celebrated a hard fought win that evened the rivalry at one contest apiece this season.
With regional standings and playoff positioning on the line, this rivalry could have even more significance as both teams prepare for postseason play. Sunnyslope enters the Open Division bracket with an impressive resume, while Millennium has demonstrated it can rise to the challenge when the stakes are highest.
