Basha Takes Clean Sweep of 6A Premier Region's Major Awards

<p>Every football season brings its share of standout performances, but this year, Basha raised the bar. The AIA's annual recognition of top talent in the 6A Premier Region wasn't just about individual brilliance — it was about a team that dominated from every angle. Basha didn't just shine; they swept every major award, earning accolades for their coach, offensive and defensive stars, and overall player of the year. This clean sweep speaks to more than just talent — it's a reflection of the seamless teamwork that allowed them to elevate each other all year. </p>   <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Player of the Year</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='954309' first='Gio' last='Richardson'] led the entire region in receiving yards (844) and was also third in touchdowns (9). Having nearly 400 more yards than the next Bears receiver, it's clear their passing attack flows through Richardson. The speed and burst that he possesses makes him incredibly effective in both the short and long game. With the ball in his hands, he's so difficult to keep up with that he can turn a quick curl route into a 40+ yard gain. Even when defenders are able to get the angle on him, Richardson's lighter frame can certainly take a hit while having the balance to stay on his feet. Where Richardson can really torment defenses is over the top; he has the ability to blow past defenders who don't give him the proper cushion. Committed to the University of Arizona, Richardson is a player we'll likely be watching on Saturdays very soon.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Offensive Player of the Year</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='883266' first='Noah' last='Roberts'] has already established himself as a standout talent in Basha's explosive offense, despite still being in his sophomore year. With offers from powerhouse programs like Alabama, Wisconsin, Ohio State, and Penn State, it's clear that Roberts' combination of speed and strength is turning heads nationwide. Watching him on the field, you can see why — his ability to shrug off defenders and turn routine plays into game-breaking moments is rare at any level, let alone high school. Averaging an eye-popping 7.2 yards per carry, Roberts racked up 1,149 all-purpose yards and an incredible 20 touchdowns during the regular season. With two more years ahead of him at Basha, Roberts is set to keep defenses on edge each and every game.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Defensive Player of the Year</h2>    <p class="text-gray-700">[player_tooltip player_id='401160' first='Eli' last='Cramer-Cronin']'s quick feet and football instincts make him a nightmare for opposing offenses. He's constantly moving, reacting to the play, and finding ways to cause disruption in the backfield. When offensive linemen try to engage with him, his swift, calculated movements allow him to slip around them and close in on the ball carrier. Cramer-Cronin's natural nose for the football resulted in an astonishing 145 tackles this season, showcasing his ability to control the middle of the field. But he's far more than just a run-stopper—his versatility showed all year with 6.5 sacks and four passes defensed. Whether sticking close in coverage or rushing the quarterback, his blend of speed and technique makes him a dynamic defensive presence. With performances like this, it's clear that Cramer-Cronin is a cornerstone of Basha's defensive success and a player to watch through the Open Division playoffs.</p>    <h2 class="wp-block-heading">Coach of the Year</h2>   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Chris McDonald</h3>   <p>Since stepping in as head coach in 2018, Chris McDonald has completely revitalized Basha High School's football program. With a 48-19 record and an Open Division state championship in 2022, it's clear that McDonald has brought a winning formula to the Bears. But it's not just about the wins — McDonald has built a culture that resonates deeply with his players. Both former and current players have talked glowingly about McDonald, not only as a coach but as a man; McDonald's genuine investment in his athletes' success makes him the kind of leader every team dreams of having. His culture and relentless drive have turned Basha into a consistent Open Division contender, earning a top-three seed in each of the last three years. McDonald's impact goes beyond the Basha sidelines — he's admired throughout Arizona's football community for the program he's built and the standards he's set.</p>   <blockquote class="wp-block-quote"> <p>“We're way different from other schools around here. We've got coaches from the collegiate level, which already helps us. Our practices are run like collegiate-level practices.” - <em><a href="https://cronkitenews.azpbs.org/2024/09/19/basha-bears-football-state-title-under-coach-chris-mcdonald/">Bears WR</a> [player_tooltip player_id='954309' first='Gio' last='Richardson'] <a href="https://cronkitenews.azpbs.org/2024/09/19/basha-bears-football-state-title-under-coach-chris-mcdonald/">speaking to Ethan Desjardine</a> of <a href="http://://cronkitenews.azpbs.org">Cronkite News</a>.</em></p> </blockquote>

Every football season brings its share of standout performances, but this year, Basha raised the bar. The AIA's annual recognition of top talent in the 6A Premier Region wasn't just about individual brilliance — it was about a team that dominated from every angle. Basha didn't just shine; they swept every major award, earning accolades for their coach, offensive and defensive stars, and overall player of the year. This clean sweep speaks to more than just talent — it's a reflection of the seamless teamwork that allowed them to elevate each other all year.