Cibola boys basketball edges Gila Ridge to strengthen 6A Playoff Position

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA) - Crosstown rivals clashed with playoff implications on the line as Cibola hosted Gila Ridge in a regular-season finale that had postseason intensity.

The Hawks struck first, as Nohea Wiggins drove hard to the rim and finished high off the glass for an early 2-0 lead.

Cibola answered immediately when Jason Johnson attacked the left side and finished with a smooth layup to tie the game.

The Raiders began to settle in and built an early advantage. Senior point guard Isaac Navarro showcased his touch, floating one high over defenders to extend Cibola's lead as they surged ahead 8-2.

But Gila Ridge responded. Wiggins found Johannes Griffin cutting inside for a reverse layup, trimming the deficit to four heading into the second quarter.

The game remained tight throughout, with the Hawks even taking the lead at points in the fourth quarter. But late-game execution proved to be the difference.

Cibola knocked down key shots down the stretch to escape with a hard-fought home victory, putting themselves in a strong position for a 6A play-in berth.

After the game, Navarro credited the team's trust and chemistry for helping them close out the win.

The Raiders now await their first-round matchup in the 6A postseason.