the process

Dream it

The Arizona High School and Junior College All-Star Basketball Games showcase the top 40 male and female players from high schools and junior colleges across the state. Distinguished from similar events, player selection follows a meticulous process led by Director Chris Diaz and the selection committee. The Selection Committee, comprised of basketball experts statewide, assesses fundamental skills, athleticism, and other key criteria to identify the top 40 players for each gender. To be considered, nominations must come from eligible nominators, including High School Varsity Head Coaches, High School Athletic Directors, High School Principals, the Arizona All Star Selection Committee, and adhere to the following criteria:

Athletic Achievement

  • Player accomplishments on the court.

  • Evaluation based on fundamental skill level, basketball IQ, competitive motor, growth potential, and athleticism.

  • Nominees must have completed 50% of their senior year season at the time of selection, with exceptions for season-ending injuries or suspension/removal from the high school team.

Scholastic Achievement

  • Must attend and participate in a high school or ACCAC program within a high school athletic conference/league or an independent league.

  • High schools in an independent league must play 80% of scheduled games against other high schools in a national circuit.

  • Eligibility under the rules of the National Federation of State High School Associations (NFHS) or approved comparable organization.

Behavior

  • Players with a felony conviction or pending charges will not be considered.

  • History of legal or disciplinary issues may result in exclusion, pending feedback from relevant authorities.

  • Behavior issues are reviewed on a case-by-case basis by the Selection Committee.

In addition, each nominee must be on track to graduate in May or June of the nominating year, and they must have lived in Arizona for one calendar year before their nomination, attending an Arizona based high school or junior college during that period. Lastly, schools are generally limited to nominating two players, with rare exceptions for a third player at the discretion of the Selection Committee. Professional players or those receiving payment for participation are ineligible, but third-party NIL deals are allowed.