Centennial/Ironwood Notes

On Friday January 20, 2023 the last two 5A state champs battled it out as the Centennial Coyotes visited the Eagles of Ironwood.

From the start of the game Ironwood jumped out to a 9-2 lead. Centennial made a run of their own to cut the lead to 15-13 at the end of the first quarter. The second quarter was pretty much of the same as Ironwood took a 29-25 lead into halftime.

In the third quarter Ironwood tried to extend the lead but Centennial continued to fight staying close. Going into the final quarter the Eagles maintained a slim six point lead. The Eagles closed out the game by maintaining their stellar defense that never let the Coyotes get on track the whole game. The final score in the west valley battle was 64-54.

Here are some of the standout players from the game.

Julius Williams Julius Williams 6'5" | PF Ironwood | 2023 State AZ Ironwood

The senior forward was stellar and very efficient for the Eagles. He didn’t force anything on offense and made some very good passes out of double teams. On the rebounding end of things Williams led the way as he finished with a near double double.

Gage Galbreath Gage Galbreath 6'3" | PF Centennial | 2024 State AZ Centennial

Gage was active the whole game and in stretches was the best player on the court. His energy and toughness was unmatched. He showed a very nice jump hook and even brought his man out to the three point line a few times. He kept multiple offensive possessions alive for the Yotes with his effort and energy.

I’yar Shadowvine I’yar Shadowvine 5'7" | PG Ironwood | 2025 State AZ Ironwood

The sophomore hit some big shots during the second half of the game as well as made some key passes. He was a jet in the open court and had the defenders backing up the whole time. He has become more consistent with his jump shot which makes him even more difficult to contain.

Zander Kamai Zander Kamai 6'3" | PG Phhoenix Prep | 2024 State AZ Centennial

The lefty guard was crafty and in attack mode all game. Even with the excellent team defense Ironwood had he still continuously got into the teeth of the defense.

Emery Young Emery Young 6'4" | SG Centennial | 2023 State AZ Centennial

The senior guard was picking his spots in which to attack. Even though he got a lot of defensive attention he never got rattled and just looked to set up his teammates. He was the best rebounder behind Galbreath giving them extra possessions.

Jordan Jones Jordan Jones 6'0" | SG Ironwood | 2023 State AZ Ironwood

Jones came off the bench and automatically interjected energy to not only the Ironwood offense but the defense as well. He came in the game and instantly hit a three. His on the ball defense helped an already good team defensive effort get better.

Johnny Rios III Johnny Rios III 5'7" | PG Centennial | 2026 State AZ Centennial

The freshman played with composure that you wouldn’t expect from someone so young. He didn’t force any action whether shooting or passing. As the game went on he got more and more comfortable. He showed a tight handle and a good touch from the perimeter.

Noah Gifft Noah Gifft 6'2" | SG Ironwood | 2024 State AZ Ironwood

The junior guard came up big for the Eagles. He hit a clutch three when Centennial got within striking distance. He also had a handful of rebounds and was vocal on defense.