Story and photos by Cedric Cobb
On May 30 and 31, the 2025 Lady X Tournament took place at Sunnyslope High School in north Phoenix. The elite field featured eight teams, all of which qualified for the 2025 state playoffs, including the past two Open Division champions.
The event served as a tune-up ahead of the prestigious Section 7 showcase, which draws college coaches from across the country. In the semifinals, Goodyear Millennium defeated Gilbert, while Surprise Valley Vista knocked off host Sunnyslope. In the consolation championship, Glendale Kellis topped Gilbert Perry with a final score of 73–58.
The championship game featured a highly anticipated rematch between West Valley rivals Millennium and Valley Vista—two teams that had just faced off in the Open Division state title game earlier this year. Millennium had won that contest, but this time, Valley Vista was ready. Both teams came out with stifling defense, forcing tough shots and limiting offensive rhythm through the first half. At halftime, Valley Vista held a narrow 19–14 lead as both squads struggled to find consistent scoring.
In the second half, Valley Vista began to gain momentum, thanks to strong performances from seniors Deja Strong and Tysyn Johnson, along with junior Braya Neal Tiffany. Millennium, led by junior Dashia Richardson and sophomore Mariah Brownlee, mounted a late comeback, cutting the deficit to just two points with under a minute left. Despite the late push, Valley Vista held on to claim a hard-fought 46–41 victory and the 2025 Lady X championship.
The All-Tournament Team included: Shanielle Mallory (Kellis), Dashia Richardson (Millennium), Deja Strong (Valley Vista), Mariah Brownlee (Millennium), Contessa Ivy (Gilbert), and Tysyn Johnson (Valley Vista). Deja Strong was named the tournament’s Most Outstanding Player.
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