NMPreps Week 5 Takeaways: High School Basketball in New Mexico
- Farmington Scorpions' Perfect Run: Farmington Scorpions had a standout week, maintaining a perfect record of 12-0 for the 2023 portion of the season. Their victories in the 2023 Hobbs Holiday Tournament, particularly against strong teams like Centennial, Hobbs, and Cleveland, have raised eyebrows and are likely to propel them in the NMPreps Team Rankings.
- Storm Shocks State with Volcano Vista Win: Despite falling to Farmington in the tournament championship, the Storm made a significant impact by defeating Volcano Vista in the semifinals. This unexpected victory, coupled with a 9-2 overall record, has positioned the Storm as a team to watch.
- Organ Mountain's Impressive Hoopla Tournament Win: Organ Mountain had a successful week, winning the Las Cruces Hoopla Tournament with notable victories over Valencia, Atrisco Heritage (in overtime), and Los Lunas. The Knights' 9-1 record heading into the new year suggests they are a force to be reckoned with.
- Las Vegas Showdown: Robertson and West Las Vegas battled for the Stu Clark Championship, creating an all Las Vegas final. The top-ranked Robertson Cardinals (3A) emerged victorious, claiming the championship in a showdown that captivated local fans.
- Santa Fe Indian Peaks Interest in 3A: Santa Fe Indian showcased its potential by clinching the SENEI tournament championship with a victory over Bosque (49-42). Both teams are now considered favorites to reach the Final Four, adding intrigue to the 3A landscape.
- Albuquerque High's Alaskan Cruise: Albuquerque High made a notable trip to Alaska, finishing the weekend with a perfect 3-0 record in the Princess Capital City Classic. Victories over Juneau-Douglas HS, Eagle River HS, and Auburnmountainview HS have boosted the Bulldogs to a 7-3 overall record.
- Cody Vassar-Steen's Rise: Cody Vassar-Steen from Farmington HS is making waves as a top prospect in the state. His standout performance in the Hobbs Holiday Tournament, averaging 26 points per game, including a stellar 30-point, 8-rebound, and 4-assist display in the opening night, has solidified his status.
- Jesus Licon's Scoring Spectacle: Jesus Licon continues to dazzle, dropping an impressive 54 points in a game against St. Pius X. With an average of 30 points per game, Licon's scoring prowess, particularly his 32-point fourth quarter, has solidified his reputation as a standout player.
- Santa Fe High's Rio Rancho Triumph: Santa Fe High School had a stellar weekend, going 3-0 and clinching victory in the Rio Rancho Tournament. Their impressive performances on the court have marked them as a team to watch in upcoming competitions.
