Basketball Game Preview: Ash Fork Spartans vs. Mayer Wildcats

Ash Fork hasn't had much luck against Mayer recently, but that could start to change on Friday. The Ash Fork Spartans will welcome the Mayer Wildcats at 5:30 p.m. Having both just faced considerable losses, both teams are looking to turn things around.

Ash Fork is headed into the game out to prove that what happened against Mogollon on Saturday (when they were outscored in every quarter) was just a minor bump in the road. Ash Fork came up short against Mogollon, falling 59-35. The Spartans were in a tough position after the first half, with the score already sitting at 35-14.

Despite the loss, Ash Fork saw an underclassman step up: freshman Isabella Acosta posted eight points along with eight boards and four steals. Acosta is crushing it when it comes to steals: she's grabbed at least three every time she's taken the court this season.

Meanwhile, Mayer lost 34-12 to North Phoenix Preparatory Academy on Thursday. The Wildcats have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

Mayer's defeat dropped their record down to 7-11. As for Ash Fork, their loss ended a three-game streak of away wins and brought them to 9-7.

Everything came up roses for Ash Fork against Mayer in their previous matchup back in December of 2024, as the team secured a 42-4 win. In that matchup, Ash Fork amassed a halftime lead of 24-2, an impressive feat they'll look to repeat on Friday.