Basketball
For game schedules and live streams, check the team's corresponding Instagram page (bottom of this page) to find the link!
AZ Compass Prep School has established itself as one of the nation’s premier high school basketball programs, known for consistently producing elite-level athletes and competing at the highest levels of prep basketball on both the boys and girls sides of basketball. Located in Chandler, Arizona, the program attracts top talent from across the country and internationally, offering student-athletes a unique opportunity to develop in a competitive and supportive environment. What sets AZ Compass apart is its holistic approach—prioritizing not only high-level competition and exposure but also the personal, academic, and athletic development of each player.
At the core of the program is a deep commitment to player development, both on and off the court. Athletes have access to elite coaching, individualized skill training, film study, nutrition education, and strength and conditioning programs designed to mirror those at the collegiate and professional levels. Off the court, AZ Compass emphasizes academic accountability, leadership development, and life skills to ensure that players are prepared for the demands of college and beyond. With a proven track record of helping athletes secure scholarships and move on to play at the NCAA Division I level and in professional leagues, AZ Compass Prep continues to be a trusted launchpad for the next generation of basketball talent.
National EYBL Scholastic Team
Our national basketball team plays in the Elite Youth Basketball Scholastic League against other top HS teams around the country and competes at the highest level with goals to win a Chipotle Nationals Championship. Our storied program has sent dozens and dozens of athletes to play college and at the professional level. Coach Peter Kaffey, our Head Coach and Program Director, has put an emphasis on tough play with a program identity centered on culture and family.
50+ current D1 athletes
7 NBA Players, 4 1st Round Draft Picks
4 Geico/Chipotle Nationals appearances
2025-26 National Basketball Schedule
Coach Kaffey has been a part of developing over 15 NBA athletes ranging from his experience in the circuit, at Findlay Prep, and now at AZ Compass. With over 150 wins as the Director at AZ Compass Prep, we have built our foundation and culture on high-character, strong academic, pro-ready student-athletes. Under the direction of Coach Kaffey, our guidance, mentorship, and advice both on and off the court can lead to the days each family dreams of. With over 20 years of experience in grassroots basketball, he understands the landscape of developing your son into a pro both on and off the floor.
Pete Kaffey has been a part of developing over 15 NBA athletes ranging from his experience in the circuit, at Findlay Prep, and now at AZ Compass. With over 150 wins as the Director at AZ Compass Prep, we have built our foundation and culture on high-character, strong academic, pro-ready student-athletes. Under the direction of Pete Kaffey, our guidance, mentorship, and advice both on and off the court can lead to the days each family dreams of. With over 20 years of experience in grassroots basketball, Pete Kaffey understands the landscape of developing your son into a pro both on and off the floor.
The Platform
The EYBL Scholastic is our power conference of basketball we compete in each year. We play a 30+ game regular season schedule which includes 10-12 league games. We also have 15-20 nationally televised games each year on ESPN and NBA platforms while traveling nationally across the whole season. Our schedule allows for our student-athletes to experience a collegiate and professional level playing style and what life is like at the next level.
National Girls
Our girls basketball program began as a national team program and as of this year, is expanding and adding a varsity and junior varsity team. This tiered team approach allows athletes to develop their skills progressively, ensuring that each player receives appropriate coaching and competition to match their development stage and so our Lady Dragons are able to develop and play at multiple levels throughout their years at AZ Compass.
The National Team competes at the highest level, participating in elite tournaments and showcases across the country, including participating in The Grind Session, EIBC (Elite Interscholastic Basketball Conference). This exposure provides players with opportunities to be scouted by college recruiters and to compete against top-tier talent nationwide. The Varsity Team serves as a critical bridge, preparing athletes for the rigors of national competition by emphasizing advanced skill development and strategic understanding of the game. Meanwhile, the JV Team focuses on foundational skills and game experience, nurturing younger players to ensure a steady pipeline of talent for the upper teams. The Varsity and JV teams compete in the CAA.
Beyond the court, AZ Compass Prep emphasizes academic excellence and personal growth. The program's holistic approach ensures that student-athletes are well-prepared for the demands of collegiate athletics and academics. With a dedicated coaching staff, state-of-the-art facilities, and a commitment to excellence, AZ Compass Prep's girls' basketball program stands out as a leading institution for developing young talent in Arizona and beyond.
National Grind
Our national grind basketball team competes in The Grind Session & EIBC league, traveling on a national schedule for multiple events throughout the season.
The AZ Compass Grind Session team is built around a player-first philosophy, emphasizing long-term development both on and off the court. Athletes in the program benefit from high-level coaching, individualized skill work, and strength and conditioning programs tailored to help them reach their full potential. This developmental focus has led to numerous players advancing to college basketball across all levels — from NCAA Division I to junior colleges and NAIA programs. The staff at AZ Compass not only prepares players for the next level physically and mentally, but also supports them through the recruiting process, helping them find the right fit academically and athletically.
Moreover, our school culture emphasizes accountability, academic excellence, and personal growth, ensuring that athletes leave the program as well-rounded individuals. With a commitment to excellence and a track record of success, AZ Compass Prep’s Grind team continues to be a destination for aspiring college and professional basketball players.
This season, our squad was able to hang a banner up in our gym, winning the 2025 CAA State Championship after defeating Premier Prep 55-51, highlighted by a strong 3rd quarter run to propel our Dragons to victory at the end.
More about Coach Howard
Coach Peajche Howard has been coaching basketball since 2015, the same time he was also playing. He's coached and trained multiple college players and has been a part of coaching UH Elite, serving as their national club coach during AAU season. After developing players at the JV level, he was promoted multiple times and now is the Head Coach of our Grind squad.
Coaching is about the fruitfulness of the work for me. I love seeing players getting better and achieve their dreams.
Open, Varsity, & JV Teams
AZ Compass Prep's basketball program in Chandler, Arizona, offers a comprehensive developmental pathway for student-athletes through its Open, Varsity, Junior Varsity (JV), and teams across all age levels. These teams compete in the Canyon Athletic Association (CAA), providing structured competition across multiple grade levels. This structure allows younger players to gain valuable experience and develop their skills in a competitive environment.
The Open and Varisty team serves as the primary competitive squad within the CAA, focusing on honing players' skills and preparing them for higher levels of play on both the boys and girls sides of basketball. The JV team offers underclassmen and developing athletes the opportunity to gain game experience and improve their abilities.
AZ Compass Prep emphasizes daily practice as part of the standard school day, integrating athletic development with academic responsibilities. This approach ensures that student-athletes receive consistent training while maintaining their educational commitments. The program's coaching staff is dedicated to fostering sportsmanship, leadership, and teamwork, aligning with the school's mission to develop well-rounded individuals.
Participation in the CAA allows AZ Compass Prep's teams to compete against a diverse range of opponents, providing varied challenges that contribute to player development. This competitive exposure is instrumental in preparing athletes for future opportunities, whether in higher-level high school teams or collegiate programs. Through our teams, AZ Compass Prep continues to cultivate a strong foundation for its student-athletes, emphasizing growth, discipline, and a passion for the game.
