Mattingly brothers keep Central rolling midway through Metro play

By Lee Begaye
Special to the Times

PHOENIX — Midway through the 5A Metro region schedule, Central High School continues to set the standard, and at the center of it all are the Mattingly brothers.

On Wednesday night, the Bobcats put together an overwhelming display of depth and firepower, rolling past Sierra Linda 109–31 to improve to 17–2 overall and 6–0 in region play. Senior point guard John Mattingly led the way with 37 points through three quarters, as Central showcased the balance and pace that have defined its season.

Two other Bobcats finished in double figures, while Grant Mattingly narrowly missed joining them with nine points, all scored before the fourth quarter. Reserve players handled the final frame as Central cruised to its sixth straight region win.

In their two seasons playing together at Central, the Mattingly brothers have helped guide the Bobcats to a 45–5 record, a state championship, and a boys NABI championship last summer. With the postseason approaching, expectations remain high for one more title run to cap their time together.

Central wasted little time asserting control. The Bobcats outscored the Bulldogs 29–9 in the first quarter, with John Mattingly scoring 11 points on four field goals, most coming at the rim, along with a 3-pointer. Grant added five points, going a perfect 3-for-3 from the free-throw line and knocking down a field goal, as multiple Bobcats found the scoring column.

The game quickly slipped out of reach in the second quarter. Central poured in 42 points while holding Sierra Linda to just six, building a commanding 71–15 halftime lead. John Mattingly scored 15 more in the period, hitting three 3-pointers and three additional field goals, while four other Bobcats contributed offensively.

The third quarter followed the same script. John added 11 more points, including another 3-pointer, two free throws, and three field goals, while Grant knocked down two baskets for four points. Central entered the fourth quarter ahead 94–26.

With the outcome decided, reserve players closed out the game, adding 15 points in the final period as Sierra Linda managed five.

Central head coach Darren Bustos praised his floor general’s approach and character.

“John is one of the best point guards in the state of Arizona,” Bustos said. “He’s very fundamental and team-oriented, and most importantly, he’s a terrific person to have on the team. And Grant isn’t far behind — he’s just as talented.”

Bustos said the brothers have played a major role in the program’s recent rise.

“Having them here has made a huge impression,” he said. “There’s been a turnaround during their time, capped by a state championship.”

He added that Grant’s opportunity to shine will only grow.

“Grant will get the spotlight next year when John leaves for Nevada,” Bustos said. John will continue his career at the University of Nevada, where the Wolf Pack compete in the Mountain West Conference, one of the most competitive mid-major leagues in the country. Nevada has established itself as a consistent postseason program, earning multiple NCAA Tournament appearances in recent seasons, including back-to-back trips that featured Sweet 16 runs. Known for guard play, spacing, and tempo, the Wolf Pack have regularly contended for conference titles and remain a fixture in the national conversation each March.

The brothers have also drawn strong support from the Navajo community, something Bustos said is felt every home game. “We get a lot of people from the rez who come to watch them play,” he said. “They pack the gym quite often, and I really appreciate that support.”

John and Grant said their chemistry comes from a lifetime of playing together. “We read off each other,” John said. “We’ve been playing basketball since we were little kids, and this year is special because we get to play together one last time in high school.”

Grant, a sophomore, spoke about his future beyond Central. “I have one offer so far,” he said, “but I’m expecting more recognition next year.”

John also acknowledged the connection that brings so many familiar faces into the gym. “Our mom is really our connection to our Navajo people,” he said. “She has ties to the Winslow area and keeps us connected with everyone back home.”

Both brothers pointed to basketball IQ and adaptability as keys to their continued success. “It’s about being smart and developing your game to fit your frame,” John said. “I may not be the tallest, but knowing when to attack, using pump fakes and ball fakes, that’s how I get around defenders.”

Looking ahead to college, John said expanding his range has been a focus. “I watch a lot of undersized guards,” he said. “It wouldn’t make sense to model my game after a 6-foot-6 player. Developing a jump shot is a must. Going to Nevada and the extended 3-point line, I’ve already started stepping back and extending my range.”

Central returns to action on January 20, hosting Metro Tech (0–14, 0–5) as the Bobcats continue their push toward another deep postseason run.

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