Story and photos by Cedric Cobb
Mesa — AZ Compass Prep out of Chandler leaned on composure, defense and timely shot-making down the stretch to edge CIA Bella Vista Prep of Phoenix 63–59 in a tightly contested matchup that featured multiple momentum swings and strong individual performances on both sides.
Compass set the tone early behind the physical play of junior forward DeMarcus Henry, who helped the Dragons build an early lead with his activity on both ends. Bella Vista answered throughout the first half, using perimeter shooting to stay within striking distance and cutting the deficit to one at halftime as Compass carried a slim 30–29 advantage into the break.
The Dragons tried to separate themselves in the third quarter by increasing their defensive pressure. Compass forced multiple turnovers that led to easy baskets, but Bella Vista continued to respond. A three-pointer from Miles Sadler tied the game midway through the period before Compass answered with back-to-back scores to regain control. Compass took a narrow 45–43 lead into the fourth quarter.
Bella Vista briefly grabbed momentum early in the final period, highlighted by a dunk from Paul Osaruyi, but Compass responded with poise. Class of 2026 guard Kaden House took over in key moments, scoring from the mid-range and making plays defensively to swing momentum back in the Dragons’ favor.
Compass extended its lead to six midway through the quarter after Kalek House knocked down a corner three and followed with a strong finish at the rim. Bella Vista refused to go away, closing the gap late on a three-pointer from Lyris Robinson, pulling within one with five seconds remaining. Compass sealed the game at the free-throw line to secure the four-point win.
Kaden House, a University of Maryland signee, finished with 15 points, three assists, three steals and two blocks, impacting the game on both ends. Kalek House, a Xavier University signee, added 14 points, including two three-pointers, while Henry posted a double-double with 12 points and 10 rebounds, along with three steals and three blocks to anchor the defense. Bella Vista was led by University West Virginia signee Miles Sadler with 14 points and 5 assists.
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