Glendale High School’s boys varsity basketball team faced off against their longtime rivals, the Hoover Tornados, in a thrilling matchup on February 5, 2025. The highly-anticipated game drew a packed crowd, with students, parents, and alumni all gathered to witness the intense showdown. In the end, the Nitros came away with the victory, beating the Tornadoes, 65-57. 

Among the attendees was none other than UFC fighter Arman Tsarukyan, who made a brief appearance during the game. Tsarukyan, a lightweight division competitor born in Georgia and representing Armenia, has quickly become a fan favorite due to his relentless fighting style and deep connection to the Armenian community. Recently, he has been visiting various schools with large Armenian student populations, including Pilibos and Chamlian, as part of his outreach to young fans.

While his presence sparked excitement, many fans gathered for photos and a quick glimpse. However, he seemed somewhat reserved and his visit was short-lived, as he stayed for only a small portion of the game before departing. He was offered the opportunity for a short interview but declined.

Despite this, the energy in the gym remained high, as Glendale and Hoover battled it out on the court. The game was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the players, who gave it their all in front of an enthusiastic crowd.

While the night included a special guest appearance, the real highlight was Glendale’s strong performance and the celebration of the seniors who left it all on the court and played with a true heart in one of their final games, leaving the gym with yet another victory.