Last Two Open Division Champions Clash for Arizona’s Ultimate High School Football Title in 2024

The much-anticipated Open Division state championship game will take place on Saturday, December 7, at Mountain America Stadium in Tempe, Arizona. This match features the Basha Bears and the Liberty Lions, both of whom have a rich history in the state championship landscape.

In 2022, the Basha Bears celebrated their victory at the same venue after clinching the Open Division title. A year later, the Liberty Lions found themselves in the spotlight, securing the same prestigious championship. With both teams emerging as frontrunners, interest is high as they prepare to face each other once again.

Both Basha and Liberty entered the 2024 season with strong ambitions and have successfully navigated their schedules to this point. Basha, boasting an 11-1 record, initially triumphed in their first three matches against out-of-state opposition and Arizona teams alike. Their season only saw a single setback against Mission Viejo from California.

Since that loss, Basha has exhibited dominance, winning eight consecutive games, showcasing their strength across various match-ups. They defeated teams including Sandra Day O’Connor and Chandler, steadily making their way through the Open Division playoffs with wins over Horizon and ALA-Queen Creek.

Liberty mirrors this trajectory with an impressive season of their own, also finishing with an 11-1 record. Their start included victories against strong opponents like Desert Edge and O’Connor. Despite a setback against Centennial, Liberty rebounded fiercely, concluding the regular season with a string of victories, including a key win against Chandler.

In the playoffs, Liberty proved their mettle by defeating Higley and Hamilton, solidifying their position as formidable contenders. This championship will be pivotal for both teams; it marks Basha’s second appearance in a state championship game and Liberty’s fourth.

As anticipation builds, fans and supporters are eager to see which team will emerge as the new champion in the storied rivalry between Basha and Liberty. The kickoff is set for 6 p.m. at Mountain America Stadium, with both teams vying for the top honor in Arizona high school football.