The Sunnyslope Vikings Boys Varsity Basketball team defeated the defending champion Perry Pumas 53-52 Friday night.
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This was an important game for the Vikings. Not just because every game is crucial, but because they lost to the Pumas in last season’s state championship.
The Vikings made an incredible run despite being the No. 10 seed in the state’s first-ever open state championship.
Sunnyslope is now 3-2 and put an end to a two-game losing streak with this victory.
This could very well be the momentum that the team needs to make another deep run to a championship.
PLAY OF THE NIGHT!!
Sunnyslope FRESHMAN Guard @delton3prescott with the ANKLE BREAKER finished with the 3 ball!!! pic.twitter.com/Bv5zvsshgn
— Peter Clark (@5StarPete) December 9, 2023
Pumas Rocky After Hot Start To Season
The defending champion Perry Pumas started the new season with four straight victories but has now lost three out of the last four.
The Pumas (5-3) have a surplus of talent including forward Koa Peat, who is ranked No. 4 in the entire country from the class of 2025.
Congratulations Koa Peat for be named the 2023 @usabasketball Male Athlete of the Year! 🇺🇸#USABAwards | #HoophallWest pic.twitter.com/3Smq2MkibX
— Hoophall Classic (@HoophallClassic) December 2, 2023
Despite the loss, Perry and head coach Sam Duane have proved time and time again that they are the team to beat in the state.
While the team already has two more losses than they did last season, the Pumas will look to get back on track.
Season’s Outlook
There is still a long season ahead for each team and both have quick turnaround games set for Monday.
This is starting to become a rivalry becoming two of the most competitive teams in the state.
Sunnyslope knocks off 2x Defending State Champ Perry 53-52 in a rematch from last years Open Division title game
— EVision (@EVision_AZ) December 9, 2023
Keep an eye out for a potential meeting again in the playoffs, or even a state championship rematch.
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Saleh Awwad is a reporter/writer covering Phoenix High School Sports and more for Burn City Sports. You can follow him on X via @SalehAwwad_
