Grine's Playoff Picture in 5A Volleyball
As we look ahead to the 2024 State Tournament in Rio Rancho, it’s time to start categorizing teams and assessing what to watch as November approaches. Here’s how the playoff picture is shaping up in 5A volleyball.
The Favorite: Las Cruces Bulldawgs (11-0)
It's impossible to dispute the Bulldawgs as the heavy favorites to claim another state title in 2024. They remain undefeated after a month and a half of play, dropping only three sets out of 32. With a dominant track record, Las Cruces enters October as the clear team to beat.
The Contenders: Cleveland Storm (10-2), La Cueva Bears (6-2)
Cleveland and La Cueva are both legitimate threats to challenge Las Cruces in the championship match at the Rio Rancho Events Center. La Cueva’s only losses are to Las Cruces and Cleveland, though they also earned a win over Cleveland earlier in the season. Meanwhile, Cleveland is riding an impressive eight-game win streak, with their only losses coming to Las Cruces and La Cueva, which is a similar resume to La Cueva.
Dark Horse Teams: Santa Fe Demons (9-1), Los Lunas Tigers (6-4), Roswell Coyotes (12-1), Centennial Hawks (6-4)
These teams rank in the 4-7 range and could be poised to make a playoff run. Santa Fe has been particularly impressive with a 9-1 record, while Los Lunas has played strong throughout the season. Roswell is riding a 12-game win streak, and Centennial is quietly climbing the ranks, with standout players Anniston Lustig and Maddison Bekken leading the charge as district play begins.
Sleeper Teams: Rio Rancho Rams (7-4), Volcano Vista Hawks (7-4), Albuquerque Bulldogs (7-5)
These teams, currently ranked 8-10, are all sitting with seven wins apiece. Their playoff fates hinge on how they perform in district play, which could significantly impact their rankings and playoff seedings. Rio Rancho and Volcano Vista, in particular, are aiming to make it three teams from District 1 in the tournament.
Final Two: Hobbs Eagles (5-7), Eldorado Eagles (8-4)
District 4’s second playoff spot is still in question. Hobbs could secure a berth but must convincingly outperform Carlsbad and Clovis. Eldorado, meanwhile, needs to hold its position above Sandia to become the potential third team representing District 2 in the bracket.
