Photos by Ray Hamill/HumboldtSports.com

By Ray Hamill — Arcata seniors Tae and Mae Wolford closed out very impressive high school careers on the basketball court with memorable seasons.

The twin sisters helped lead the Tigers to a second straight Big 5 title this year and a first Dick Niclai Tournament championship since 2018, and that earns them the nod as the 2025/26 Humboldt Sports Girls Basketball co-Players of the Year.

They beat out a talented and deep field of finalists for the award.

Both sisters left a lasting impact on the program.

Tae was named Big 5 MVP, a well deserved honor after the year she had, but many observers felt that award should have been shared with her twin sister.

Including Arcata head coach Charlie Espinoza.

“Mae and Tae were both dominant figures in the H-DNL this year,” Espinoza said after the MVP and all-league teams were announced. “They both play with so much tenacity and passion that it’s clear to me, and I hope everyone in the area, that both deserve MVP.”

Not only did the dynamic duo dominate opposing teams all winter, but they overcame multiple mental obstacles on the path to success, including in this year’s Niclai final when they were pushed all the way by conference rival Eureka.

After a late letdown in the Niclai decider 12 months ago, this year the Wolford sisters and their teammates would not be denied.

Tae averaged a team-best 17.7 points a game, as well as 5.7 rebounds and a very impressive four steals a game.

Mae averaged 14.8 points a game and 3.9 steals, but was more dominant on the boards than her sister, pulling down a team-high 8.1 rebounds a game.

The stat that stands out is their eight steals a game combined, which showcased her incredible tenacity on the court.

“I’m so proud of those two and am so lucky to have built bonds with both of them,” Espinoza said. “They empower young ladies all over this county.”

Both sisters will continue their playing careers on the college courts.

Congratulations to Tae and Mae for being named the 2025/26 Humboldt Sports Girls Basketball co-Players of the year.