(APACHE JUNCTION, Ariz.) In a must-win match-up to stay in the state playoff hunt, Gilbert Christian football delivered one of its most complete performances of the season, overpowering Apache Junction 53-14 on the road Friday night.

The Knights struck early and often, jumping out to a 39-0 halftime lead behind a dynamic effort from senior Kamari Stanbury, who scored three touchdowns- one on a 45-yard reception from classmate Caleb Ely, another on a 5-yard run, and a third on an electric 86-yard punt return.

Sophomore Pierson Scott also excelled on the field, scoring twice for the Knights. Scott posted a 31-yard rushing touchdown in the first, and scored again before the break with a 6-yard interception return. Senior Hyatt Lang added a pick-six of his own, while junior Gabe Caballero and freshman Dusty Cook each found the endzone on the ground. Senior kicker Noah Cooper also picked up five points in the contest, converted 5 of 6 PATs for Gilbert Christian.

Defensively, the Knights were relentless, forcing five interceptions. Four of the picks were courtesy of seniors Lang, Bennett Juve, Levi Jones and Callaway Conkright, with P. Scott stepping up for the underclassmen to collect the fifth.

Sophomore Alijah Jarles anchored the defense with five solo tackles and three assists to lead all players with eight total bring-downs, while senior Parker Tonemah added four solo stops and two assists of his own. Junior Evan Scott also managed six total tackles in the win.  

Ely threw for 85 yards, while sophomore Levi Cisneros and Cook paced the ground game with 48 and 47 rushing yards, respectively. Junior Brodan Barth represented the receiver crew with 61 yards on three grabs. Stanbury, for his part, led all players with 136 all-purpose yards.

Gilbert Christian finishes the year 7-3 overall, earning a spot in the 2025 AIA 3A Football State Tournament. The Knights' first round game will be played at Payson High School on Friday, November 7th (7:00PM). Tickets can be purchased HERE.