2024 New Mexico High School State Basketball Tournament Quarterfinals Preview
The excitement of the 2024 New Mexico High School State Basketball Tournament continues to build as the quarterfinals are set to tip off on March 12th. With matchups across various classifications, fans can expect intense competition and thrilling moments as teams vie for a spot in the semifinals. Let's dive into the matchups and make some predictions for each game:
2A BASKETBALL
#2 Tatum vs #7 Dulce
8:00 AM, RREC
In this early morning matchup, Tatum (26-2 overall) faces Dulce (19-10 overall). Tatum's balanced offense, averaging 55.3 points per game, will be challenged by Dulce's defensive tenacity. Expect a close contest, but Tatum's depth should give them the edge. Prediction: Tatum wins 60-50.
#6 Penasco vs #2 Pecos
11:30 AM, RREC
Penasco (18-11 overall) meets Pecos (22-6 overall) in what promises to be a competitive showdown. Both teams have split their season series, indicating a closely contested game. However, Pecos' experience and solid defense should carry them to victory. Prediction: Pecos wins 55-50.
#8 Laguna-Acoma vs #1 Mesa Vista
6:30 PM, RREC
Laguna-Acoma (18-9 overall) takes on Mesa Vista (25-3 overall) in a clash of titans. Mesa Vista's high-powered offense, led by Tana Lopez, poses a significant challenge for Laguna-Acoma. Despite their resilience, Laguna-Acoma may struggle to keep up with Mesa Vista's scoring prowess. Prediction: Mesa Vista wins 70-55.
3A BASKETBALL
#7 St. Michael's vs #2 Robertson
9:45 AM, RREC
St. Michael's comes into the game with a record of 14-11 overall, averaging 41.2 points per game. Led by key players Jada Lujan, Mia Duran, and Mariella Ruiz, St. Michael's will look to overcome their underdog status and pull off an upset against Robertson. On the other side, Robertson boasts a stellar record of 20-7 overall, averaging 50.9 points per game. Having won the season series against St. Michael's 2-0 with an average margin of victory of 9.5 points, Robertson enters the game as the favorite. Key players for Robertson include Arianna Martinez, Alyxa King-Greenwood, and Lovely Allemand. Prediction: Robertson wins 65-50.
#7 West Las Vegas vs #3 Navajo Prep
1:15 PM, RREC
West Las Vegas enters the game with a record of 14-12 overall, averaging 44.5 points per game. Led by key player Alexis Pacheco, who averages an impressive 18.3 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, West Las Vegas looks to upset the higher-seeded Navajo Prep. Navajo Prep, with a record of 22-9 overall, presents a formidable challenge for West Las Vegas. Averaging 54.5 points per game, Navajo Prep aims to capitalize on their strong regular season performance and secure a spot in the semifinals. Prediction: Navajo Prep wins 70-60.
#5 Tucumcari vs #4 Santa Fe Indian
4:45 PM, RREC
Tucumcari (23-3 overall) meets Santa Fe Indian (18-9 overall) in a battle of contrasting styles. While Tucumcari relies on a balanced offense, Santa Fe Indian leans heavily on Emma Lewis' scoring prowess. Expect a close game, but Santa Fe Indian's defensive intensity gives them the edge. Prediction: Santa Fe Indian wins 55-50.
#8 Zuni vs #1 Tohatchi
8:15 PM, RREC
Zuni (18-11 overall) faces a daunting challenge against Tohatchi (23-6 overall). Tohatchi's dominance in the paint, coupled with their efficient offense, makes them the favorites in this matchup. Prediction: Tohatchi wins 65-45.
4A BASKETBALL
#7 Bloomfield vs #2 St. Pius X
11:30 AM, THE PIT
Bloomfield enters the game with a solid 19-9 overall record, averaging 44.3 points per game. Led by key player Aliya Quintana, Bloomfield looks to capitalize on their postseason momentum and pull off an upset against the higher-seeded St. Pius X.
St. Pius X boasts an impressive record of 24-3 overall, averaging 54.3 points per game. With a balanced and talented lineup, including key players Alyssa Maes and Macy Freeze, St. Pius X aims to continue their dominant form and advance to the semifinals. In their previous meeting earlier in the season, St. Pius X emerged victorious with a commanding 44-24 win over Bloomfield. However, Bloomfield now has an opportunity to turn the tables and prove themselves on the big stage. Prediction: St. Pius X wins 60-45.
#5 Portales vs #4 Gallup
3:00 PM, THE PIT
Portales (20-8 overall) clashes with Gallup (22-8 overall) in what promises to be a physical matchup. Both teams excel defensively, but Gallup's scoring depth gives them the edge. Prediction: Gallup wins 55-50.
#1 Kirtland Central vs #8 Valencia
6:30 PM, THE PIT
In a highly anticipated matchup, Kirtland Central (26-3 overall) faces Valencia (19-11 overall). Kirtland Central's offensive firepower but watch for Valencia, led by Jadyn Montoya. Prediction: Kirtland Central wins 70-60.
5A BASKETBALL
#5 Mayfield vs #4 Volcano Vista - 9:45 AM - 5A - THE PIT
In an early morning clash, the #5 seeded Mayfield faces off against the #4 seeded Volcano Vista at The Pit. Mayfield enters the game with a commendable 23-5 overall record, averaging 44.2 points per game. Led by Jazlene Ruiz, Mayfield looks to overcome their lower seeding and make a statement against Volcano Vista.
Volcano Vista boasts a strong record of 22-5 overall and an impressive scoring average of 59 points per game. With key players Taejhuan Hill and Lilliana Duncan leading the charge, Volcano Vista poses a formidable challenge for Mayfield. Hill's dominant presence in the paint, averaging a double-double with 16.8 points and 10.6 rebounds per game, will be a focal point for Volcano Vista's offense.
Prediction: Expect a closely contested matchup between two evenly matched teams. While Mayfield will put up a strong fight, Volcano Vista's offensive firepower and defensive prowess will ultimately secure them the victory.
Score Prediction: Volcano Vista wins 62-58.
#7 Eldorado vs #2 Sandia - 1:15 PM - 5A - THE PIT
The stage is set for an electrifying matchup as the #7 seeded Eldorado Eagles clash with the #2 seeded Sandia Matadors at The Pit. These two teams, both hailing from District 2-5A, have a storied rivalry that adds an extra layer of intensity to this quarterfinal showdown.
Eldorado comes into the game with a commendable 21-8 overall record, showcasing their prowess on both ends of the court. The Eagles boast an impressive scoring average of 58.2 points per game, led by none other than Bella Hines, the top player in the state. Hines has been a force to be reckoned with all season, leading the state in scoring with an astonishing 34 points per game.
On the other side, the Sandia Matadors present a formidable challenge with their dominant performance throughout the season. Sporting an impressive 25-3 overall record, Sandia has been a force on offense, averaging a remarkable 70.3 points per game. Leading the charge for Sandia are Sydney Benally and Hope Giddings, a dynamic duo that could arguably be the best in the state. Benally's all-around excellence, averaging 20.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 3.4 steals per game, has been instrumental in Sandia's success.
In their three meetings this season, Sandia emerged victorious in every encounter, securing a 3-0 season series sweep over Eldorado. However, with Bella Hines leading the charge, the Eagles are determined to turn the tables and pull off an upset against their rivals.
Prediction: Expect a fiercely contested battle between two powerhouse teams. While Sandia holds the edge with their balanced offense and defensive tenacity, Eldorado's determination and the scoring prowess of Bella Hines will keep them in the game until the final buzzer.
Score Prediction: Sandia wins a close one, 72-68.
#6 Organ Mountain vs #3 Farmington - 4:45 PM - 5A - THE PIT
The excitement continues to build as the #6 seeded Organ Mountain Knights square off against the #3 seeded Farmington Scorpions at The Pit in a highly anticipated quarterfinal matchup.
Organ Mountain enters the game with a commendable 21-7 overall record, showcasing their resilience and determination throughout the season. Despite averaging 51.8 points per game, the Knights have demonstrated their ability to compete against top-tier opponents. Leading the charge for Organ Mountain is Caitlin Turnbow, a versatile player who averages an impressive 17 points and 11.3 rebounds per game, providing a formidable presence on both ends of the court.
Their opponents, the Farmington Scorpions, boast an impressive 25-4 overall record, highlighting their dominance in the 5A division. With an average of 60.6 points per game, Farmington possesses a potent offensive arsenal led by Kapiolani Anitielu. Anitielu has been a standout performer for the Scorpions, averaging 17.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, showcasing her versatility and leadership on the court.
In their previous encounter earlier in the season, Farmington secured a hard-fought victory over Organ Mountain with a final score of 61-50. However, with a spot in the semifinals on the line, both teams are prepared to leave it all on the court and battle for supremacy.
Prediction: Expect a closely contested matchup between two formidable opponents. While Farmington holds the edge in offensive firepower, Organ Mountain's defensive prowess and Caitlin Turnbow's leadership will keep them in the game until the final whistle.
Score Prediction: Farmington emerges victorious in a hard-fought battle, 65-60.
#8 La Cueva vs #1 Hobbs - 8:15 PM - 5A - THE PIT
In a marquee matchup between two powerhouse teams, the #8 seeded La Cueva takes on the #1 seeded Hobbs at The Pit. La Cueva enters the game with a respectable 20-9 overall record, led by standout players Jordyn Dyer and Eva Love. Despite being the lower seed, La Cueva is poised to make a statement and upset the top-ranked Hobbs.
Hobbs boasts an impressive record of 25-3 overall and a high-scoring offense averaging 68.9 points per game. Led by Kyndle Cunningham and Bhret Clay, Hobbs aims to maintain their dominance and advance to the semifinals.
Prediction: Expect a thrilling contest between two talented teams. While La Cueva will put up a strong fight, Hobbs' offensive firepower and depth will ultimately secure them the victory.
Score Prediction: Hobbs wins 72-65.
The excitement of the 2024 New Mexico High School State Basketball Tournament continues to build as the quarterfinals are set to tip off on March 12th. With matchups across various classifications, fans can expect intense competition and thrilling moments as teams vie for a spot in the semifinals. Let's dive into the matchups and make some predictions for each game:
2A BASKETBALL
#2 Tatum vs #7 Dulce
8:00 AM, RREC
In this early morning matchup, Tatum (26-2 overall) faces Dulce (19-10 overall). Tatum's balanced offense, averaging 55.3 points per game, will be challenged by Dulce's defensive tenacity. Expect a close contest, but Tatum's depth should give them the edge. Prediction: Tatum wins 60-50.
#6 Penasco vs #2 Pecos
11:30 AM, RREC
Penasco (18-11 overall) meets Pecos (22-6 overall) in what promises to be a competitive showdown. Both teams have split their season series, indicating a closely contested game. However, Pecos' experience and solid defense should carry them to victory. Prediction: Pecos wins 55-50.
#8 Laguna-Acoma vs #1 Mesa Vista
6:30 PM, RREC
Laguna-Acoma (18-9 overall) takes on Mesa Vista (25-3 overall) in a clash of titans. Mesa Vista's high-powered offense, led by Tana Lopez, poses a significant challenge for Laguna-Acoma. Despite their resilience, Laguna-Acoma may struggle to keep up with Mesa Vista's scoring prowess. Prediction: Mesa Vista wins 70-55.
3A BASKETBALL
#7 St. Michael's vs #2 Robertson
9:45 AM, RREC
St. Michael's comes into the game with a record of 14-11 overall, averaging 41.2 points per game. Led by key players Jada Lujan, Mia Duran, and Mariella Ruiz, St. Michael's will look to overcome their underdog status and pull off an upset against Robertson. On the other side, Robertson boasts a stellar record of 20-7 overall, averaging 50.9 points per game. Having won the season series against St. Michael's 2-0 with an average margin of victory of 9.5 points, Robertson enters the game as the favorite. Key players for Robertson include Arianna Martinez, Alyxa King-Greenwood, and Lovely Allemand. Prediction: Robertson wins 65-50.
#7 West Las Vegas vs #3 Navajo Prep
1:15 PM, RREC
West Las Vegas enters the game with a record of 14-12 overall, averaging 44.5 points per game. Led by key player Alexis Pacheco, who averages an impressive 18.3 points and 5.5 rebounds per game, West Las Vegas looks to upset the higher-seeded Navajo Prep. Navajo Prep, with a record of 22-9 overall, presents a formidable challenge for West Las Vegas. Averaging 54.5 points per game, Navajo Prep aims to capitalize on their strong regular season performance and secure a spot in the semifinals. Prediction: Navajo Prep wins 70-60.
#5 Tucumcari vs #4 Santa Fe Indian
4:45 PM, RREC
Tucumcari (23-3 overall) meets Santa Fe Indian (18-9 overall) in a battle of contrasting styles. While Tucumcari relies on a balanced offense, Santa Fe Indian leans heavily on Emma Lewis' scoring prowess. Expect a close game, but Santa Fe Indian's defensive intensity gives them the edge. Prediction: Santa Fe Indian wins 55-50.
#8 Zuni vs #1 Tohatchi
8:15 PM, RREC
Zuni (18-11 overall) faces a daunting challenge against Tohatchi (23-6 overall). Tohatchi's dominance in the paint, coupled with their efficient offense, makes them the favorites in this matchup. Prediction: Tohatchi wins 65-45.
4A BASKETBALL
#7 Bloomfield vs #2 St. Pius X
11:30 AM, THE PIT
Bloomfield enters the game with a solid 19-9 overall record, averaging 44.3 points per game. Led by key player Aliya Quintana, Bloomfield looks to capitalize on their postseason momentum and pull off an upset against the higher-seeded St. Pius X.
St. Pius X boasts an impressive record of 24-3 overall, averaging 54.3 points per game. With a balanced and talented lineup, including key players Alyssa Maes and Macy Freeze, St. Pius X aims to continue their dominant form and advance to the semifinals. In their previous meeting earlier in the season, St. Pius X emerged victorious with a commanding 44-24 win over Bloomfield. However, Bloomfield now has an opportunity to turn the tables and prove themselves on the big stage. Prediction: St. Pius X wins 60-45.
#5 Portales vs #4 Gallup
3:00 PM, THE PIT
Portales (20-8 overall) clashes with Gallup (22-8 overall) in what promises to be a physical matchup. Both teams excel defensively, but Gallup's scoring depth gives them the edge. Prediction: Gallup wins 55-50.
#1 Kirtland Central vs #8 Valencia
6:30 PM, THE PIT
In a highly anticipated matchup, Kirtland Central (26-3 overall) faces Valencia (19-11 overall). Kirtland Central's offensive firepower but watch for Valencia, led by Jadyn Montoya. Prediction: Kirtland Central wins 70-60.
5A BASKETBALL
#5 Mayfield vs #4 Volcano Vista - 9:45 AM - 5A - THE PIT
In an early morning clash, the #5 seeded Mayfield faces off against the #4 seeded Volcano Vista at The Pit. Mayfield enters the game with a commendable 23-5 overall record, averaging 44.2 points per game. Led by Jazlene Ruiz, Mayfield looks to overcome their lower seeding and make a statement against Volcano Vista.
Volcano Vista boasts a strong record of 22-5 overall and an impressive scoring average of 59 points per game. With key players Taejhuan Hill and Lilliana Duncan leading the charge, Volcano Vista poses a formidable challenge for Mayfield. Hill's dominant presence in the paint, averaging a double-double with 16.8 points and 10.6 rebounds per game, will be a focal point for Volcano Vista's offense.
Prediction: Expect a closely contested matchup between two evenly matched teams. While Mayfield will put up a strong fight, Volcano Vista's offensive firepower and defensive prowess will ultimately secure them the victory.
Score Prediction: Volcano Vista wins 62-58.
#7 Eldorado vs #2 Sandia - 1:15 PM - 5A - THE PIT
The stage is set for an electrifying matchup as the #7 seeded Eldorado Eagles clash with the #2 seeded Sandia Matadors at The Pit. These two teams, both hailing from District 2-5A, have a storied rivalry that adds an extra layer of intensity to this quarterfinal showdown.
Eldorado comes into the game with a commendable 21-8 overall record, showcasing their prowess on both ends of the court. The Eagles boast an impressive scoring average of 58.2 points per game, led by none other than Bella Hines, the top player in the state. Hines has been a force to be reckoned with all season, leading the state in scoring with an astonishing 34 points per game.
On the other side, the Sandia Matadors present a formidable challenge with their dominant performance throughout the season. Sporting an impressive 25-3 overall record, Sandia has been a force on offense, averaging a remarkable 70.3 points per game. Leading the charge for Sandia are Sydney Benally and Hope Giddings, a dynamic duo that could arguably be the best in the state. Benally's all-around excellence, averaging 20.8 points, 6.4 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 3.4 steals per game, has been instrumental in Sandia's success.
In their three meetings this season, Sandia emerged victorious in every encounter, securing a 3-0 season series sweep over Eldorado. However, with Bella Hines leading the charge, the Eagles are determined to turn the tables and pull off an upset against their rivals.
Prediction: Expect a fiercely contested battle between two powerhouse teams. While Sandia holds the edge with their balanced offense and defensive tenacity, Eldorado's determination and the scoring prowess of Bella Hines will keep them in the game until the final buzzer.
Score Prediction: Sandia wins a close one, 72-68.
#6 Organ Mountain vs #3 Farmington - 4:45 PM - 5A - THE PIT
The excitement continues to build as the #6 seeded Organ Mountain Knights square off against the #3 seeded Farmington Scorpions at The Pit in a highly anticipated quarterfinal matchup.
Organ Mountain enters the game with a commendable 21-7 overall record, showcasing their resilience and determination throughout the season. Despite averaging 51.8 points per game, the Knights have demonstrated their ability to compete against top-tier opponents. Leading the charge for Organ Mountain is Caitlin Turnbow, a versatile player who averages an impressive 17 points and 11.3 rebounds per game, providing a formidable presence on both ends of the court.
Their opponents, the Farmington Scorpions, boast an impressive 25-4 overall record, highlighting their dominance in the 5A division. With an average of 60.6 points per game, Farmington possesses a potent offensive arsenal led by Kapiolani Anitielu. Anitielu has been a standout performer for the Scorpions, averaging 17.2 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 3.8 assists per game, showcasing her versatility and leadership on the court.
In their previous encounter earlier in the season, Farmington secured a hard-fought victory over Organ Mountain with a final score of 61-50. However, with a spot in the semifinals on the line, both teams are prepared to leave it all on the court and battle for supremacy.
Prediction: Expect a closely contested matchup between two formidable opponents. While Farmington holds the edge in offensive firepower, Organ Mountain's defensive prowess and Caitlin Turnbow's leadership will keep them in the game until the final whistle.
Score Prediction: Farmington emerges victorious in a hard-fought battle, 65-60.
#8 La Cueva vs #1 Hobbs - 8:15 PM - 5A - THE PIT
In a marquee matchup between two powerhouse teams, the #8 seeded La Cueva takes on the #1 seeded Hobbs at The Pit. La Cueva enters the game with a respectable 20-9 overall record, led by standout players Jordyn Dyer and Eva Love. Despite being the lower seed, La Cueva is poised to make a statement and upset the top-ranked Hobbs.
Hobbs boasts an impressive record of 25-3 overall and a high-scoring offense averaging 68.9 points per game. Led by Kyndle Cunningham and Bhret Clay, Hobbs aims to maintain their dominance and advance to the semifinals.
Prediction: Expect a thrilling contest between two talented teams. While La Cueva will put up a strong fight, Hobbs' offensive firepower and depth will ultimately secure them the victory.
Score Prediction: Hobbs wins 72-65.
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