Quinton Pressley is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Desert Mountain High School for AZPreps365.com

Two is always better than one.

The Bardwell twins, born and raised in Arizona, have been key additions to the Wolves’ roster. Fresh out of junior high, these freshman brothers have contributed immensely toward the team’s success this season. 

One of the hardest transitions for freshmen who make varsity is the adjustment to the higher level of play. However, their father, Brandon Bardwell, credits the boys' “work-aholic” attitude as to what allows them to adapt so seamlessly. 

“The biggest thing I’ve learned from high school basketball is probably just defense, taking charges, doing the little things, it’s not really offense the whole time, hitting free throws are big too,” said Javon.

The duo has played together since they were 4 years old and have not looked back since. Like any pair of siblings, the twins were always arguing growing up, but they have grown into eachothers biggest supporters.

“We just uplift each other, and see what we see as brothers, and just put it into the game,” said Jabron.

Both players have unique styles of play that cater perfectly to the recipe of winning basketball that head coach Mitchell Amour has been cooking this season. 

Jabron, a vocal leader, is a spark plug for the Wolves’ with his swiss army knife abilities. On the other hand, Javon is a more reserved teammate and a silent killer on the floor. He can score on all three levels and is a strong defender who can rebound at a high rate. In fact, Javon has become accustomed to a starting role in the rotation heading into playoffs. 

Unfortunately, Desert Mountain suffered a huge loss, losing Jabron for the remainder of the season due to a broken hand. 

“He’s still making it to practice, and doing what he has to do as far as being a good teammate cheering on his teammates and his brother,” said Brandon. 

Even though their season is far from over, both the twins can reflect on some of their most memorable moments so far. When asked, Jabron stated that his favorite moment was their nail biter game against St. Mary’s where Desert Mountain won 79-78. For Javon, it was when Desert Mountain spoiled Sierra Canyon’s visit to Arizona where they beat Bryce James and company, 81-74.

The Open State Championship tournament began on Wednesday Feb. 14. Desert Mountain was placed at the 5th seed out of 32 teams. Javon and Jabron were unfazed, when asked about the rankings, they said that “they don’t matter” and what they need to focus on is getting better.

“In my opinion, I feel like five is perfect for us… we need to play more as a team,” said Jabron. 

The Wolves are fresh off a first round victory against Thunderbird High School, 48-43. Javon was on fire scoring 19 points and snagging 6 rebounds in the home win. They play again tonight Feb. 16 at 7:00pm where they host Canyon View High School for a second round matchup in “The Den.” 

The 5A Northeast Valley section has two problems on their hands for years to come, and they both share the same last name.