A Decade Later: MHS Basketball Queens Relive Their Epic State Title Glory

On February 2, 2015, Maricopa High School etched its name into the history books by winning its first and only state basketball championship. A decade later, the memories of that thrilling game remain fresh for the players, especially for Raegene Womack and team captain Ashliegh Haley.

Haley, reflecting on the bittersweet conclusion to their time together, said, “It was the best day of my life being able to play a game like this and walk away with a championship.” Haley still resides in Maricopa, balancing life as a mother to her 5-year-old son and working as an insurance broker. Her brother, Jeff Haley Jr., currently plays varsity basketball for the Rams.

Womack, who was also pivotal in the championship run, now works as an IT consultant in Gilbert. After an impressive stint at South Mountain Community College, her athletic career was marred by injuries. “I wish I had taken physical therapy a little more seriously,” she mentioned while reflecting on her athletic journey.

The day of the championship match saw Maricopa fans rally behind their team, taking multiple buses to Gila River Arena. The atmosphere was electric, but the intensity heightened when Seton Catholic’s supporters launched insults at the Rams. Womack, undeterred, channeled that energy onto the court, leading with 17 points as the Rams claimed a narrow 52-49 victory.

The 2015 victory remains the sole state championship for the Rams, a feat made possible by the team’s strong camaraderie. Many players, including Haley and Womack, had been teammates since elementary school, which made the transition to Coach Kati Burrows challenging. Despite early friction, Burrows fostered a winning mentality that propelled the team to a 29-5 record that season, earning her Division II Coach of the Year honors.

Today, Burrows, now known as Kati Mobley, reflects on that special season. “It was more than just winning; it was about seeing a group come together and believe in each other,” she stated. Her decision to leave Maricopa after one season was influenced by a coaching opportunity back in her hometown of Bozeman, Montana, where she continues to teach and coach.

Though a decade has passed, the bonds among the Rams remain strong. Haley and Womack continue to share a close friendship, often reminiscing about their time together leading up to that unforgettable championship win.