The 2025 Texas UIL Boys Basketball Playoffs are heating up as teams from across the state battle for regional titles and climb closer to the coveted state championship. Among the schools generating excitement are Canutillo and Chapin, who have both made significant strides in the postseason.
Last weekend marked the end of the area round of playoffs with impressive performances from El Paso teams. Canutillo defeated Lubbock Cooper 55-44, securing the area's D2 title for the first time since 2015. Donovan Mozer led Canutillo with 14 points, supported by fellow teammates Austin Bonilla and Jovanni Ortiz, who added 12 points each. This victory represented Canutillo's second playoff win, marking their determination to make their mark this season.
Chapin also showcased their strength during the playoffs by defeating Amarillo High with a decisive 48-27 win. The Huskies controlled the game from start to finish, never trailing and effectively limiting Amarillo High to their season-low point total. Center Jayden Leverett was the standout player, scoring 26 points and grabbing 16 rebounds, propelling Chapin to victory and helping them advance to the regional semifinals with an impressive record of 34-1.
Chapin's head coach, Tevin Caldwell, praised his team's cohesiveness, stating, "The togetherness on this team has been great. These kids have worked so hard." Caldwell particularly noted the team's improved performance as they played with heightened intensity following their victory. Leverett echoed this sentiment, reflecting on their preparation leading up to the game, saying, "We had really good practices leading up to the Amarillo game. I'm really proud of our whole team." With this win, Chapin looks to continue their success as they advance to face Denton High, who has proven to be formidable opponents.
Other teams from the El Paso area had mixed results during the area round. Ysleta faced setbacks, losing 58-53 to Canyon West Plains, with Azaiah Thompson's 33 points not enough to secure the win. Similarly, Riverside ended their playoff run after a tough 91-51 loss to Canyon Randall, marking the end of their season after showing great determination throughout the year. The Eagles from San Elizario also fell short against Seminole, ending with a 45-40 result.
With regional semifinals approaching, Texas high school basketball fans are buzzing with anticipation as the playoffs enter another round. Teams like Chapin and Canutillo are setting high standards, showcasing resilience and hard work on the court. The playoffs this year have been thrilling, with numerous upsets and exciting performances.
The playoffs will continue with several key matchups slated for this week. Specific games include Veterans Memorial competing against Southwest and Ray facing Alamo Heights. With high stakes and the fervent support of local communities, each game presents opportunities for young athletes to shine before advancing to the state round.
Fans across the state are encouraged to watch these young athletes as they pour their heart and soul onto the court, all vying for the chance to bring home championship titles to their schools. Every dribble, pass, and shot counts as they enter the next phase of playoffs.
Chapin's next game against Denton High, set for this Tuesday at 3 p.m. CST at Midland College, will be viewed with great interest as they seek to extend their playoff run. Meanwhile, Canutillo aims to follow suit and continue their successful march through the playoffs.
With the energy and passion of high school basketball behind them, these boys teams represent the spirit of competition, dedication, and the promise of young athletic talent. Fans are eagerly watching, and with each game, the storyline of the UIL playoffs becomes increasingly engaging.
This year’s Texas UIL Boys Basketball Playoffs are undoubtedly setting the stage for memorable performances and unforgettable moments as teams pursue glory on the hardwood.