Care to dance? Arizona, GCU prepare for first round of NCAA men’s basketball tournament

PHOENIX – After watching their initial tournament fates be decided on Selection Sunday, the Arizona Wildcats and GCU Antelopes prepare for the madness of March on opposite ends of the tournament seeding spectrum.

Arizona freshman guard KJ Lewis is among the Wildcats excited to begin NCAA Tournament play. The team opens play against Long Beach State Thursday in Salt Lake City. (Photo by Dominic Contini/Cronkite News)

Maricopa County, First Place hold mock election for disabled voters ahead of presidential primary

PHOENIX – Maricopa County Recorder’s Office and Elections Office is providing tools to help voters with disabilities cast their ballots and has teamed up with First Place, a residential center for people with disabilities.


Gila River Indian Community rejects states’ plan for Colorado, works with feds

The Gila River Indian Community said it does not support a plan backed by three states for managing the Colorado River’s shrinking water supply, and is instead working instead with federal officials to develop its own proposal for water sharing.


On the hunt: Revamped Arizona Rattlers return hungry for IFL title in 2024

MESA – After falling short of expectations last season, the Arizona Rattlers are poised for a championship redemption in the 2024 arena football campaign, backed by a determined roster and experienced coaching staff.

The Arizona Rattlers enter the 2024 season fueled by determination to make a return to championship contention with a blend of seasoned veterans and fresh talent. (Photo courtesy of Arizona Rattlers)

Maricopa County residents eligible for free pool fences through Pool Fence Safety Program

PHOENIX – Child Crisis Arizona, the Salt River Project and the 493 Firefighter Foundation aim to decrease childhood drownings through the 2024 Pool Fence Safety Program that provides free pool fences to eligible Maricopa County residents.

A "Watch your children!" sign hangs on Sam Aguilar and Brandi Stoll’s pool fence on Feb. 21, 2024, in Phoenix. (Photo by Harris Hicks/Cronkite News)

Arizona Pro Day draws in scouts, coaches from 31 NFL teams for final in-person evaluation of promising prospects

TUCSON – In front of scouts from 31 NFL teams (and two CFL teams), the University of Arizona’s draft prospects gave scouts one last look at their skills and abilities before the draft in April.

Maricopa native Jacob Cowing showcases his speed and skills during receiver drills Thursday at Arizona's Pro Day. (Photo by John Busker/Cronkite News)

Arizona Cardinals sign six free agents with defensive upgrade a priority

TEMPE – The Arizona Cardinals signed six free agents to their roster Thursday. For each player, the new culture and opportunities give hope for next season.

Defensive tackle Bilal Nichols talks to the media Thursday after signing a three-year deal with the Arizona Cardinals. (Photo by Aaron Decker/Cronkite News)

Making the madness: An inside look at the NCAA’s tournament bracket-building

PHOENIX – On Feb. 21, members of Cronkite News participated in a mock NCAA men’s basketball tournament selection committee ahead of the Final Four in Phoenix. Members of the mock committee learned what it takes to make the bracket every March.

The NCAA Basketball Tournament Selection Committee meets in New York ahead of Selection Sunday to begin the process of selecting and seeding the field of 68 teams. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Coconino official says improvements needed for federal wildfire assistance

WASHINGTON - A Coconino County official joined other witnesses who told a Senate panel Wednesday that there need to be improvements in the overlapping and sometimes confusing way federal agencies help local governments respond to crises like wildfires.


Oumar Ballo, Arizona Wildcats cruise past USC to Pac-12 Tournament Semifinals

LAS VEGAS – No. 1 Arizona avenged its previous loss to No. 9 USC in a 70-49 victory in the Pac-12 Men’s Tournament Quarterfinals in Las Vegas. Coach Tommy Lloyd praised his bench and center Oumar Ballo, but emphasized the Wildcats aren’t looking too far ahead yet.

Arizona freshman guard KJ Lewis celebrates after making a layup while being fouled in the Wildcats' 70-49 win Thursday against USC in the 2024 Pac-12 Tournament Quarterfinals at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Dominic Contini/Cronkite News)

ASU men’s basketball loses big to Utah in Pac-12 conference era finale

LAS VEGAS — In a season of highs and lows leading to the final Pac-12 tournament ASU men’s basketball had the heavy task of winning with a chance at the NCAA tournament and keeping their overall season alive.

Arizona State head coach Bobby Hurley evaluates his teams offense in a first-round matchup against Utah in the 2024 Pac-12 Tournament at T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Dominic Contini/Cronkite News)

Human composting? Arizona legislators consider bill legalizing natural decomposition as eco-friendly burial alternative

PHOENIX — Arizona legislation aims to legalize human composting and give Arizonans a sustainable alternative to traditional funeral care.

One of Return Home’s vessels is covered with personal touches families can add, such as flowers and clothing. (Photo courtesy of Return Home)