Class 2A New Mexico High School Basketball First Round Preview & Predictions
The stage is set, the teams are ready, and the excitement is palpable as the 224 Class 2A New Mexico high school basketball state tournament unfolds. As fans eagerly await the action-packed matchups and thrilling contsts, several compelling storylines emerge, promising a tournament filled with drama, intensity, and unforgettable moments.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this year's tournament is the depth and competitiveness of the field. With teams boasting impressive records, standout players, and a hunger for victory, every game promises to be fiercely contested. From perennial powerhouses to rising stars, the Class 2A tournament showcases the best of New Mexico's high school basketball talent.
Keep an eye on the top-seeded teams, such as the Academy for Technology and The Classics (ATC) Phoenix, the Eunice Cardinals, and the Tularosa Wildcats, as they look to assert their dominance and make a run for the championship title. These teams bring a potent combination of skill, experience, and determination to the court, making them formidable opponents for any challenger.
No. 1 Academy for Technology and The Classics (ATC) Phoenix (25-3 overall) vs No. 16 Clayton Yellowjackets (9-18 overall)
In this matchup, the No. 1 seed, Academy for Technology and The Classics (ATC) Phoenix, faces off against the No. 16 seed, Clayton Yellowjackets. ATC boasts an impressive record of 25-3 overall, while Clayton struggles with only 9 wins on the season and a winless record in district play.
ATC's dominance throughout the season, with their only losses coming against higher-enrollment classification teams, suggests they will control the game. Led by top prospect Julian Berardino, averaging nearly 18 points per game, and supported by seniors Rocky Miller and Jordan Apodaca, ATC's offense is formidable.
Clayton's challenges in scoring and lackluster performance throughout the season indicate they'll face an uphill battle against ATC. With ATC's experience, talent, and coaching under Bobby Romero, they're poised for a convincing victory.
Prediction: ATC Phoenix to win 78-35.
No. 2 Eunice Cardinals (22-5 overall) vs No. 15 Mescalero Apache Chiefts (14-13 overall)
In this matchup, we have the No. 2 seed, Eunice Cardinals, taking on the No. 15 seed, Mescalero Apache Chiefts. While Mescalero Apache has managed to secure 14 wins on the season with a decent district record of 6-2, they'll face a tough challenge against the surging Eunice Cardinals.
The Eunice Cardinals have had an outstanding season, winning 22 games and going undefeated in district play with an 8-0 record. Their recent offensive surge, averaging 64.2 points per game over the last five games, indicates they're hitting their stride at just the right time. Led by senior guard Ashton Thompson, who has surpassed the 1,000-point career scoring mark this season, the Cardinals are a force to be reckoned with.
Mescalero Apache's average of 50.7 points per game suggests they may struggle to keep up with Eunice's potent offense, especially given the Cardinals' impressive 16-game win streak heading into the postseason.
Prediction: Eunice Cardinals to win 72-58.
No. 3 Tularosa Wildcats (22-4 overall) vs No. 14 McCurdy Bobcats (15-13 overall)
In this matchup, the No. 3 seed Tularosa Wildcats face off against the No. 14 seed McCurdy Bobcats. McCurdy, despite a respectable 15-win season and a 5-5 record in district play, faces a daunting task traveling south to take on the Wildcats.
The Bobcats' offense, averaging 64 points per game, is led by Ryan Montoya, who averages 18.2 points per game, along with contributors Jeremaya Roybal and Lucas Montoya. However, their journey to face the Wildcats will test their resilience.
Under the guidance of head coach Sergio Castanon, the Tularosa Wildcats have asserted themselves as a top 2A program. With a stellar 22-4 record and a perfect 8-0 district championship, the Wildcats are formidable opponents. Key players like Zaine Hodges, Dillon Salazar, Fabian Pacheco, and Estevan Barraza have been instrumental in their success this season.
Riding a 10-game winning streak into the postseason, the Wildcats have proven themselves on their home court with an impressive 14-1 record. McCurdy will need a stellar performance to upset Tularosa in their own territory.
Prediction: Tularosa Wildcats to win 76-65.
No. 4 Mesa Vista Trojans (22-5 overall) vs No. 13 Jal Panthers (14-13 overall)
In this matchup, the No. 4 seed Mesa Vista Trojans go head-to-head against the No. 13 seed Jal Panthers. Jal secured an at-large bid with 14 wins this season and a 5-3 record in district play, led by Nolbert Cervantes, averaging 13.7 points per game, along with contributors Gabriel Juarez and Brandon Houston.
Hailing from Ojo Caliente, New Mexico, the Mesa Vista Trojans enter the tournament as a force to be reckoned with. With an impressive 22-5 record and a dominant 9-1 performance in district play, they clinched the district championship this season. Averaging 64.5 points per game, the Trojans are known for their potent offense, especially on their home court where they boast a remarkable 9-1 record.
Key player Jordan Gallegos, the district player of the year, adds depth to the Trojans' roster. The 6-foot-3 sophomore has showcased his talent with a stellar 22-point performance in the district tournament championship game, demonstrating his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
While Jal Panthers have shown resilience throughout the season, they face a tough challenge against the Mesa Vista Trojans' high-scoring offense and home court advantage.
Prediction: Mesa Vista Trojans to win 70-58.
No. 5 Rehoboth Christian Lynx (20-6 overall) vs No. 12 Mora Rangers (14-14 overall)
In this matchup, the No. 5 seed Rehoboth Christian Lynx face off against the No. 12 seed Mora Rangers. Mora, with 14 wins on the seson and a 5-5 record in district play, faces a tough challenge traveling to face the Lynx.
The Rangers, averaging 53 points per game, have shown resilience throughout the season, but they'll need to bring their A-game against the frmidable Rehoboth Christian Lynx.
Under the guidance of head coach Kevin Zwiers, the Lynx have established themselves as one of the premier programs in 2A basketball. With a stellar 20-6 record and a perfect 6-0 district championship, they're poised for postseason success. Their only losses to 2A teams came early in the season, indicating their growth and improvement over the course of the year.
Senior standouts Raeden West and Kaleb Vail lead the charge for the Lynx, both averaging over 15 points per game. Their leadership and scoring prowess will be crucial in guiding Rehoboth Christian through the playoffs.
Prediction: Rehoboth Christian Lynx to win 64-52.
No. 6 Texico Wolverines (15-11 overall) vs No. 11 Menaul Panthers (16-12 overall)
In this matChup, the No. 6 seed Texico Wolverines take on the No. 11 seed Menaul Panthers. Menaul, with 16 wins on the season and an impressive 8-2 record in district play, brings a strong offense, averaging 58.4 points per game, led by key players Nojus Zalenekas, Brayden Chavez, and Ugnius Jasevisius.
However, they face a formidable opponent in the Texico Wolverines, widely considered one of the top contenders for the state title. With 15 wins and a flawless 6-0 record in district play, the Wolverines asserted their dominance by clinching the District 6-2A championship.
Led by standout performers such as senior Cade Figg, junior Alex Fuentes, and freshman Jett Curtis, alongside seniors Daltyn Cain and junior Steen North, the Wolverines boast a well-rounded roster with talent across multiple positions. Figg, in particular, stands out as one of the top athletes in 2A athletics this season, showcasing his skills not only in basketball but also in football, where he's committed to play at West Texas A&M.
With their depth, experience, and talent, the Wolverines are favored to come out on top in this matchup.
Prediction: Texico Wolverines to win 68-60.
No. 7 Pecos Panthers (18-10 overall) vs No. 10 Loving Falcons (15-11 overall)
In this matchup, the No. 7 seed Pecos Panthers face off against the No. 10 seed Loving Falcons. Despite being considered a threat to upset, the Falcons face a tough challenge heading north to take on the defending state champions, the Pecos Panthers.
The Falcons, with 15 wins on the season and a 5-3 record in district play, boast a solid offense averaging 57 points per game. Key players like Giovanni Ruiz, JD King, and Bobby Parraz will be instrumental in their attempt to pull off the upset.
However, the Pecos Panthers are no strangers to success in 2A basketball. As defending state champions and perennial contenders, they have a storied history of dominance in the sport. With appearances in six of the last seven state championships and five titles to their name, including a remarkable four-peat from 2017 to 2020, the Panthers are determined to maintain their status as a powerhouse.
Led by key players such as Lawrence Ragland, Brandyn Encinias, Adrian Quintana, and Joshua Gonzales, the Panthers have the talent and experience to make another deep run in the state tournament.
Prediction: Pecos Panthers to win 74-65.
No. 8 Santa Rosa Lions (20-8 overall) vs No. 9 Escalante Lobos (19-9 overall)
In this matchup, the No. 8 seed Santa Rosa Lions go head-to-head against the No. 9 seed Escalante Lobos. Escalante, with an impressive 19 wins on the season and a dominant 9-1 record in district play, bring a strong offense led by standout player Luka Torrez, who leads the team in scoring, rebounds, assists, and steals.
However, they face a tough challenge against the Santa Rosa Lions, who enter the tournament with 20 victories under their belt. Despite being seeded 8th, the Lions are considered one of the toughest teams in the bracket, with an impressive average of 66.9 points per game and a stellar 14-2 home record.
Key player Jykub Gage leads the Lions into the opening round with his sharpshooting skills, providing a formidable threat on offense.
With both teams boasting strong records and offensive firepower, this matchup promises to be closely contested.
Prediction: Santa Rosa Lions to win 72-68.
The stage is set, the teams are ready, and the excitement is palpable as the 224 Class 2A New Mexico high school basketball state tournament unfolds. As fans eagerly await the action-packed matchups and thrilling contsts, several compelling storylines emerge, promising a tournament filled with drama, intensity, and unforgettable moments.
One of the most intriguing aspects of this year's tournament is the depth and competitiveness of the field. With teams boasting impressive records, standout players, and a hunger for victory, every game promises to be fiercely contested. From perennial powerhouses to rising stars, the Class 2A tournament showcases the best of New Mexico's high school basketball talent.
Keep an eye on the top-seeded teams, such as the Academy for Technology and The Classics (ATC) Phoenix, the Eunice Cardinals, and the Tularosa Wildcats, as they look to assert their dominance and make a run for the championship title. These teams bring a potent combination of skill, experience, and determination to the court, making them formidable opponents for any challenger.
No. 1 Academy for Technology and The Classics (ATC) Phoenix (25-3 overall) vs No. 16 Clayton Yellowjackets (9-18 overall)
In this matchup, the No. 1 seed, Academy for Technology and The Classics (ATC) Phoenix, faces off against the No. 16 seed, Clayton Yellowjackets. ATC boasts an impressive record of 25-3 overall, while Clayton struggles with only 9 wins on the season and a winless record in district play.
ATC's dominance throughout the season, with their only losses coming against higher-enrollment classification teams, suggests they will control the game. Led by top prospect Julian Berardino, averaging nearly 18 points per game, and supported by seniors Rocky Miller and Jordan Apodaca, ATC's offense is formidable.
Clayton's challenges in scoring and lackluster performance throughout the season indicate they'll face an uphill battle against ATC. With ATC's experience, talent, and coaching under Bobby Romero, they're poised for a convincing victory.
Prediction: ATC Phoenix to win 78-35.
No. 2 Eunice Cardinals (22-5 overall) vs No. 15 Mescalero Apache Chiefts (14-13 overall)
In this matchup, we have the No. 2 seed, Eunice Cardinals, taking on the No. 15 seed, Mescalero Apache Chiefts. While Mescalero Apache has managed to secure 14 wins on the season with a decent district record of 6-2, they'll face a tough challenge against the surging Eunice Cardinals.
The Eunice Cardinals have had an outstanding season, winning 22 games and going undefeated in district play with an 8-0 record. Their recent offensive surge, averaging 64.2 points per game over the last five games, indicates they're hitting their stride at just the right time. Led by senior guard Ashton Thompson, who has surpassed the 1,000-point career scoring mark this season, the Cardinals are a force to be reckoned with.
Mescalero Apache's average of 50.7 points per game suggests they may struggle to keep up with Eunice's potent offense, especially given the Cardinals' impressive 16-game win streak heading into the postseason.
Prediction: Eunice Cardinals to win 72-58.
No. 3 Tularosa Wildcats (22-4 overall) vs No. 14 McCurdy Bobcats (15-13 overall)
In this matchup, the No. 3 seed Tularosa Wildcats face off against the No. 14 seed McCurdy Bobcats. McCurdy, despite a respectable 15-win season and a 5-5 record in district play, faces a daunting task traveling south to take on the Wildcats.
The Bobcats' offense, averaging 64 points per game, is led by Ryan Montoya, who averages 18.2 points per game, along with contributors Jeremaya Roybal and Lucas Montoya. However, their journey to face the Wildcats will test their resilience.
Under the guidance of head coach Sergio Castanon, the Tularosa Wildcats have asserted themselves as a top 2A program. With a stellar 22-4 record and a perfect 8-0 district championship, the Wildcats are formidable opponents. Key players like Zaine Hodges, Dillon Salazar, Fabian Pacheco, and Estevan Barraza have been instrumental in their success this season.
Riding a 10-game winning streak into the postseason, the Wildcats have proven themselves on their home court with an impressive 14-1 record. McCurdy will need a stellar performance to upset Tularosa in their own territory.
Prediction: Tularosa Wildcats to win 76-65.
No. 4 Mesa Vista Trojans (22-5 overall) vs No. 13 Jal Panthers (14-13 overall)
In this matchup, the No. 4 seed Mesa Vista Trojans go head-to-head against the No. 13 seed Jal Panthers. Jal secured an at-large bid with 14 wins this season and a 5-3 record in district play, led by Nolbert Cervantes, averaging 13.7 points per game, along with contributors Gabriel Juarez and Brandon Houston.
Hailing from Ojo Caliente, New Mexico, the Mesa Vista Trojans enter the tournament as a force to be reckoned with. With an impressive 22-5 record and a dominant 9-1 performance in district play, they clinched the district championship this season. Averaging 64.5 points per game, the Trojans are known for their potent offense, especially on their home court where they boast a remarkable 9-1 record.
Key player Jordan Gallegos, the district player of the year, adds depth to the Trojans' roster. The 6-foot-3 sophomore has showcased his talent with a stellar 22-point performance in the district tournament championship game, demonstrating his ability to rise to the occasion when it matters most.
While Jal Panthers have shown resilience throughout the season, they face a tough challenge against the Mesa Vista Trojans' high-scoring offense and home court advantage.
Prediction: Mesa Vista Trojans to win 70-58.
No. 5 Rehoboth Christian Lynx (20-6 overall) vs No. 12 Mora Rangers (14-14 overall)
In this matchup, the No. 5 seed Rehoboth Christian Lynx face off against the No. 12 seed Mora Rangers. Mora, with 14 wins on the seson and a 5-5 record in district play, faces a tough challenge traveling to face the Lynx.
The Rangers, averaging 53 points per game, have shown resilience throughout the season, but they'll need to bring their A-game against the frmidable Rehoboth Christian Lynx.
Under the guidance of head coach Kevin Zwiers, the Lynx have established themselves as one of the premier programs in 2A basketball. With a stellar 20-6 record and a perfect 6-0 district championship, they're poised for postseason success. Their only losses to 2A teams came early in the season, indicating their growth and improvement over the course of the year.
Senior standouts Raeden West and Kaleb Vail lead the charge for the Lynx, both averaging over 15 points per game. Their leadership and scoring prowess will be crucial in guiding Rehoboth Christian through the playoffs.
Prediction: Rehoboth Christian Lynx to win 64-52.
No. 6 Texico Wolverines (15-11 overall) vs No. 11 Menaul Panthers (16-12 overall)
In this matChup, the No. 6 seed Texico Wolverines take on the No. 11 seed Menaul Panthers. Menaul, with 16 wins on the season and an impressive 8-2 record in district play, brings a strong offense, averaging 58.4 points per game, led by key players Nojus Zalenekas, Brayden Chavez, and Ugnius Jasevisius.
However, they face a formidable opponent in the Texico Wolverines, widely considered one of the top contenders for the state title. With 15 wins and a flawless 6-0 record in district play, the Wolverines asserted their dominance by clinching the District 6-2A championship.
Led by standout performers such as senior Cade Figg, junior Alex Fuentes, and freshman Jett Curtis, alongside seniors Daltyn Cain and junior Steen North, the Wolverines boast a well-rounded roster with talent across multiple positions. Figg, in particular, stands out as one of the top athletes in 2A athletics this season, showcasing his skills not only in basketball but also in football, where he's committed to play at West Texas A&M.
With their depth, experience, and talent, the Wolverines are favored to come out on top in this matchup.
Prediction: Texico Wolverines to win 68-60.
No. 7 Pecos Panthers (18-10 overall) vs No. 10 Loving Falcons (15-11 overall)
In this matchup, the No. 7 seed Pecos Panthers face off against the No. 10 seed Loving Falcons. Despite being considered a threat to upset, the Falcons face a tough challenge heading north to take on the defending state champions, the Pecos Panthers.
The Falcons, with 15 wins on the season and a 5-3 record in district play, boast a solid offense averaging 57 points per game. Key players like Giovanni Ruiz, JD King, and Bobby Parraz will be instrumental in their attempt to pull off the upset.
However, the Pecos Panthers are no strangers to success in 2A basketball. As defending state champions and perennial contenders, they have a storied history of dominance in the sport. With appearances in six of the last seven state championships and five titles to their name, including a remarkable four-peat from 2017 to 2020, the Panthers are determined to maintain their status as a powerhouse.
Led by key players such as Lawrence Ragland, Brandyn Encinias, Adrian Quintana, and Joshua Gonzales, the Panthers have the talent and experience to make another deep run in the state tournament.
Prediction: Pecos Panthers to win 74-65.
No. 8 Santa Rosa Lions (20-8 overall) vs No. 9 Escalante Lobos (19-9 overall)
In this matchup, the No. 8 seed Santa Rosa Lions go head-to-head against the No. 9 seed Escalante Lobos. Escalante, with an impressive 19 wins on the season and a dominant 9-1 record in district play, bring a strong offense led by standout player Luka Torrez, who leads the team in scoring, rebounds, assists, and steals.
However, they face a tough challenge against the Santa Rosa Lions, who enter the tournament with 20 victories under their belt. Despite being seeded 8th, the Lions are considered one of the toughest teams in the bracket, with an impressive average of 66.9 points per game and a stellar 14-2 home record.
Key player Jykub Gage leads the Lions into the opening round with his sharpshooting skills, providing a formidable threat on offense.
With both teams boasting strong records and offensive firepower, this matchup promises to be closely contested.
Prediction: Santa Rosa Lions to win 72-68.
