Heritage boys’ basketball advances to state final

The Heritage Academy boys’ basketball team defeated BASIS-Scottsdale, 79-68, on Saturday to advance to the Central Arizona Association’s Division 3 championship game.

The Heroes, who were 15-3 during the regular season, had a tight battle with the Bulldogs until pulling away in the second half.

“They didn’t let them slowing the game down bother them,” coach Jim Deakyne said of his team. “They maintained their composure. They moved the ball. There were a lot of guys getting the ball offensively. That’s what we want to do.”

Heritage fielded a starting five of sophomores against a team primarily of seniors. It was a challenge of both size and experience until 6-foot-3 Malik Charles arrived in time for the fourth quarter.

“Phenomenal play from our boys,” Deakyne said.

Josh Deakyn scored 34 points, and Logan Porter had 18. Ahmari Moody added 10.

In its first year of existence, the team goal all season was to win state, so Coach Deakyne said he was not surprised to reach the final but he was pleased. He said facing either San Tan Charter or Imagine Prep-Surprise would a tough matchup for the Heroes. The final is Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. at Talking Stick Resort Arena.

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