Hoops 2016

THE NEW MEXICAN

HO O PS P

Girls to watch Adonica Baca-Martinez, Santa Fe High The Demonettes might struggle with the transition to interim head coach Lanse Carter, but Baca-Martinez is clearly the best player on the team. Through the first three games of the season, she is showing the ability to handle the ball and attack the basket while averaging 20.6 points per game.

Santa Fe High needs her to excel to have a chance, because they lack the qualities she has right now.

NORTHERN NEW MEXICO BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Jocelyn Fernandez, St. Michael’s

Girls Dec. 15, Española Valley at Santa Fe High. Two weeks ago, this was a measuring-stick game for the Demonettes under Rick Apodaca.

Now, it becomes Lanse Carter vs.

Cindy Roybal, Part II. Two years ago, Carter didn’t shake Roybal’s hand after the Lady Sundevils’ 58-43 win, and the ensuing controversy led to a one-game suspension for Carter. It was a moment that Carter regrets, but he gets a second chance this night.

Dec. 19, St. Michael’s at Capital.

The road to respectability has been a long, hard journey for the Lady Jaguars, and this game gives them an opportunity to take another step in that direction against a Lady Horsemen squad that should be a contender in District 2-4A. A win or a close loss would be a stepping stone for Capital.

ul

Alexis Lovato, Española Valley

Ca

s

M sie

Jan. 5-7, Northern Rio Grande Tournament. Just call it the preDistrict 5-2A tournament, because every team in the district is in this storied event. The highlight of this year’s tournament will be to see which team has the best run among Mora, Mesa Vista and Escalante.

The Lady Trojans and Lady Lobos harbor dreams of being the team to knock off the Rangerettes, and this will be their chance to make a statement. Or, Mora continues to show it is still the team to beat.

An

ge li c aM

on

Cassie Muller, Pecos

to

ya

Jan. 19, St. Michael’s at Las Vegas Robertson. The Lady Horsemen make their return to District 2-4A with a big game right off the bat. The Lady Cardinals see themselves as a contender in the district, and a win here will go far in solidifying that belief. For St. Michael’s, it will be the first of eight tests in which it will get the very best from district foes.

Because it’s St. Michael’s, of course.

at

ti

While Muller exploded onto the scene as a freshman, leading the Lady Panthers in scoring (17.8 ppg), head coach Ron Drake knew all about her as an eighth-grader. She is an efficient shooter and is not afraid of taking the ball to the basket when the need arises. About the only thing she needs to work on is her free-throw shooting — just like the rest of her teammates.

Angelica Montoya, Las Vegas Robertson

n Joh

Ri

g

Ma

rio Ar

hu

c

Montoya was a vital cog in the Lady Cardinals’ offense, averaging more than 10 points, 8 rebounds and 3 blocks per game last season as Robertson overcame a 1-7 start to the season with a 13-8 finish.

The 6-foot-2 senior post is not carrying the scoring load as much this season with the development of forwards Jazmyne Jenkins and Alianza Darling, but she is a force to be reckoned with in the paint.

le t

— James Barron

a

r tin

ez

Boys to watch

Ma

John Rigatti, Desert Academy

ac

A

n do

ica

B

.B

us

ar

to

s

al

az

Jeremy Anaya, Capital

e

de

z

at

o

an

Mario Archuleta, Pecos

Al e

xis

PHOTOS By LuIS SáNCHEz SATuRNO AND CLyDE MuELLER/THE NEW MExICAN AND LukE MONTAVON/FOR THE NEW MExICAN

Jer

em

yA

ay

n

— Will Webber

S

nF

rn

If there’s an ironclad lock to this list, it’s this 6-foot-3 senior shooting guard. At some point before district play, he’ll squeeze his way past legends like Bryce Alford and Alfred Romero Jr. and etch his name atop the state’s all-time scoring list with more than 2,600 points. Until then, he’ll do what he does best, and that’s pour in buckets like they’re going out of style. A deft 3-point shooter, he’s as good at creating space as anyone out there.

A 6-foot junior who averaged 14 points, 6.6 rebounds and four steals a game last year while shooting 81 percent from the free-throw line, the Panthers point guard is the consummate playmaker, with an explosive skill set worthy of posting even bigger numbers this season. While he’s liable to shoot 3-pointers, his biggest asset is attacking the rim and absorbing contact. Expect a lot of that this season.

iah

e ly

D.J. Bustos, West Las Vegas

A

z za

Jo c

Putting the ball in this guy’s hands is like throwing it into a time machine. The game seems to stand still when the Ice Man, a 5-foot-10 senior guard who can run the point or play on the wing, has the rock.

A deadly 3-point shooter, he is a threat to drive in any situation given his quickness on the dribble penetration. If ever there was a go-to player, it’s likely Anaya’s name would be at the top of the list.

a

S AT U R D AY, D E C E M B E R 3 , 2 0 1 6

Boys Dec. 3, Al Armendariz Tournament championship. Is Santa Fe High for real? A potential showdown with Capital in the Jaguars’ own tournament will be a great early season litmus test for the Demons, a team with an energetic new coach and a surprisingly winnable district in what seems like a down year for 2-6A. If we’re to take Santa Fe High seriously, we’ll have a good indication by the end of the weekend.

D. J

Affectionately known as “AZ,” this 6-foot-5 junior is ready to take center stage in the proverbial powder keg that is the Sundevils’ program. The man in the middle with rebounding and scoring ability unlike few others, he has already demonstrated the moxie to play the starring role, as witnessed by his clinching free throw in the closing seconds of last year’s 5A state championship win over Capital.

Jan. 27, Los Alamos at Española Valley. Welcome to the rivalry, Josh Archuleta. The Lady Hilltoppers might not be led by Nestor Trujillo on the sidelines, but Archuleta will get his first taste of the intensity level that will always be white-hot as long as Cindy Roybal is on the sidelines for Española. While Los Alamos is not as strong as it was the past couple of years, this matchup still will be an obstacle for the Lady Sundevils to overcome in their march to a third straight regular-season title.

a-

The best player you’ve probably never heard of stands 6-foot-4 and does the kind of damage deserving of your attention. He can score virtually at will from any spot, but the fact that he usually has more size than most opponents makes him especially dangerous anywhere within 10 feet. On any given night he can light up the scorebook, but it seems that he’s at his best when the level of competition is strongest.

Azaziah Salazar, Española Valley

C

Don’t miss these games

le r

Can the basketball partnership between Fernandez and head coach Martin Romero last? Fernandez was the team’s leading scorer when she left the team late in the season. The two appear to be ready to make a go of it one more time, and the senior can only help. Fernandez is a dual threat on offense and is strong enough to match up against bigger players (I mean, she played football this season).

“The Beast” will be fully unleashed now that she is a year removed from her ACL injury that took away half of the 2015-16 season. Lovato is by far the best post player in the North and perhaps in Class 5A, and is averaging 23 points per game so far this season. If the Lady Sundevils hope to make one more run at a state title, Lovato will have to do the heavy lifting.

Full sports section inside

Lo

v

Dec. 7, Pecos at Mora. It’s entirely likely that these two will still be standing come the final day or two of their respective state tournaments; Pecos in a top-heavy 3A and Mora in 2A. The Rangers already registered the first seismic wave of the nondistrict season with an upset of West Las Vegas, a clear indication that guard Travis Romero and Co. are ready for Mario Archuleta and the rest of the Panthers.

Jan. 20, West Las Vegas at Las Vegas Robertson. The intracity rivals met in the state semifinals in The Pit last March, a game the Cardinals felt shortchanged in because of early foul troubles for two of their three best players. The birds are back, and you can bet they’ve had this game circled as long as the schedule has existed. That said, we’ll know by then if this Dons team is capable of a third straight run to the 4A finals.

Jan. 25/Feb. 11, Española Valley vs. Capital. Just go ahead and get your tickets now. The Jaguars visit “The Valley” in late January and the Sundevils return the favor just before Valentine’s Day. These clubs staged an epic showdown in last year’s Class 5A championship game in The Pit and, rest assured, the rematches will be much anticipated by everyone involved, including the coaches (whomever they are at Española).

Feb. 17, West Las Vegas at St. Michael’s. Remember the good ol’ days of about 15 years ago, back when Matt Pribble’s Horsemen and the Dons of David Bustos had such a heated rivalry? Those days could be back now that the schools are reunited in district play.

While all signs point to Robertson and Pojoaque Valley having stellar teams in a brutally tough 2-4A, this regular-season finale could go a long way in determining playoff seeding.

HO O PS P NORTHERN NEW MEXICO BASKETBALL PREVIEW: BOYS Class 1A DistriCt 1-1A

Coronado Leopards 2015-16 record: 9-16, 6-2 in 1-1A; lost to Hondo Valley in opening round of 1A state tournament.

Head coach: Matthew Coriz (third year) Key players: Diego Jacquez, sr., guard; Jack Walker, sr., post; Bryce Jaramillo, sr., post; Alonso Lovato, jr., guard; Julian Madrid, jr., guard.

Overview: The Leopards have had five straight losing seasons, but that could change if the expectations are met with real progress. With size in the low post and a trio of veteran guards, things are looking up for a team that managed to reach the postseason as a No. 14 seed last season.

The Leopards are one of the favorites in 1-1A, particularly with defending champion Waldorf in rebuilding mode.

santa Fe Waldorf Wolves 2015-16 record: 18-6, 8-0 in 1-1A; lost to Cliff in 1A state quarterfinals.

Head coach: Enrique Otero (first year) Key players: Santi Briceno, so., guard, 5-foot-7; Liam Otero, so., forward, 6-1; Sam Wollheim, so., guard, 5-4; Jeromy Lopez, fr., forward, 5-9.

Overview: Young, younger and youngest.

Every one of the eight varsity players is a sophomore or freshman, and only three of them had any measurable time with the team last year — albeit in limited roles.

Also new is Otero, the first-year head coach who said it’s clearly a rebuilding year but one in which he expects his team to at least compete for a spot in the state playoffs.

New Mexico school for the Deaf roadrunners 2015-16 record: 3-15, 0-8 in 1-1A. Head coach: Letty Perez (second year) Key players: Deven Thompson, so., post, 6-foot-8; Jonathan Garcia, so., guard, 5-7; Johnathan Ludwigs, so., wing, 5-9.

Overview: There isn’t a team in the state that wouldn’t love to have Thompson (18 ppg, 9.7 rpg). The key for NMSD is how the younger players develop around him.

Garcia and Ludwigs showed promise as a freshmen, and their growth should show up in the team’s record this year. In a district that is wide open, the Roadrunners could make some noise.

Class 2A DistriCt 5-2A

Peñasco Panthers 2015-16 record: 7-19, 1-9 in 5-2A. Head coach: Tim Pacheco (second year) Key players: Matt Lopez, jr., guard, 5-foot-8; Thomas Gonzales, sr., post, 6-4; Billy Rodarte, jr., guard, 5-7; Richard Martinez, jr., forward, 6-3; Noah Martinez, sr., wing, 5-9; Rolando Lucero, jr., forward, 6-1.

Overview: The Panthers are on an upswing with a junior-dominant team that improved by five wins last year in Pacheco’s first year at the helm. Matt Lopez is a strong, attacking guard, while Billy Rodarte and Noah Martinez provide the perimeter shooting for a team that prefers to push the tempo. Peñasco also has size in Richard Martinez and Rolando Lucero to complement its guard play. Even though Mora is still the team to beat, the Panthers have the tools to compete in the district.

Mesa Vista trojans 2015-16: 16-13, 4-6 in 5-2A. Lost to Magdalena 57-52 in the Class 2A quarterfinals.

Head coach: Terence Mirabal (first year) Key players: Xavier Varela, jr., wing, 5-foot-9; Brian Gollas, jr., guard, 5-8; Frankie Ortiz, jr., wing; Charles Buezo, sr., guard, 5-8; Jonathon Alire, sr.; Robert Sandoval, sr., guard, 5-7.

Overview: The Trojans returned to the state tournament after a four-year absence, but they have an uphill climb with a mostly young, inexperienced group taking the place of eight graduating seniors. Varela is clearly the top player on the team, but the rest of the team already has shown an ability to adapt to difficult situations in the young season. Size will again be a problem for the Trojans, but the key to a successful season will be how the rest of the team develops and takes some of the heat off Varela.

Escalante Lobos 2015-16 record: 21-8, 8-2 in 5-2A. Lost to Gateway Christian 57-44 in the Class 2A quarterfinals.

Head coach: Bill Russom (sixth year) Key players: Tristan Martinez, sr., wing, 5-foot-8; Waylon Hinds, sr., guard, 5-8; Aaron Rendon, sr., post, 6-2; Justin Garcia, jr., wing, 6-0; Anthony Ulibarri, so., guard, 5-8.

Overview: It’s a transition year for the Lobos, who have a mix of good seniors with an inexperienced group of mostly sophomores. Martinez and Hinds will be called upon to take larger roles, while Rendon gives Escalante some muscle in the paint. Still, the rest of the roster is relatively inexperienced. If the younger players continue to develop, the Lobos have a chance at challenging the Rangers for the top spot in the district.

Mora rangers 2015-16 record: 26-6, 10-0 in 5-2A. Lost to Melrose 63-51 in the Class 2A championship game.

Head coach: Hank Laumbach (second year) Key players: Santiago Laumbach, sr., wing, 6-foot-1; Travis Romero, jr., guard, 5-8; Samuel Abeyta, sr., guard, 5-10;

Alonzo Aragon, sr., forward 5-11; Ryan Duran, sr., forward 6-1.

Overview: It’s good news/good news for the Rangers. First, they return the bulk of their 2A runner-up team. Second, Melrose is now a 1A school and won’t be the thorn in 2A’s side. Mora has the horses to return to the championship game, with Laumbach, Romero and Abeyta leading the way.

The one weakness the Rangers have will be in the post, where they lack significant size. Still, Mora will be a problem for many 2A teams.

Questa Wildcats 2015-16 record: 13-16, 3-7 in 5-2A. Lost to Mora 82-53 in the first round of the Class 2A tournament.

Head coach: Tomas Madrid (first year) Key players: T.J. Madrid, sr., guard 5-foot10; Miguel Rael, sr. guard, 5-8; Gabe Gallegos, sr., forward, 6-0; Toby Ortega, sr., guard, 5-9; Justin Madrid, so., forward, 6-0; Jeremy Cintas, sr., guard, 5-9.

Overview: The Wildcats are quick, but they have struggled against teams that can be more physical. T.J. Madrid and Ortega are a potent 1-2 scoring combo, with equal parts quickness and strength.

If the younger Madrid and Gallegos can provide improved interior strength, then Questa will be a tough out for any team in the district. However, in one of the strongest districts in the state, the Wildcats will have to show mental toughness to go with its physical mettle.

Class 3A DistriCt 2-3A

santa Fe Prep Blue Griffins 2015-16 record: 9-19, 5-5 in 2-3A Head coach: Clyde Sanchez (second year) Key players: Dillon Abeyta, so., guard, 5-foot-7; Luc Simard-Halm, sr., wing, 5-8; Harrison Miller, jr., guard, 5-7; Victor Rios, jr., guard, 5-7; Shane Unverferth, sr., post, 6-4, Danny Laposata, sr., guard, 5-9; Sam Sparks, so., guard, 5-11; Sean Coles, so., guard, 5-9 Overview: Abeyta, the team captain, will spearhead a Blue Griffins attack that should feature more ball movement and transition opportunities than last year.

Simard-Halm, who returns to the team after living in Connecticut the past two years, will bolster the offense with his shooting and ball-handling. Unverferth is a defensive-minded post presence with double-double potential, provided that he can adopt a more aggressive offensive approach. After the younger players struggled to mesh with the graduating seniors last season, Sanchez expects chemistry and continuity will improve with this year’s group. Finishing games could be an issue, however, as the Blue Griffins’ struggles at the free-throw line have carried over into the beginning of this season.

Monte del sol Dragons 2015-16 record: 4-19, 1-9 in 2-3A Head coach: Alfredo Lujan (second year) Key players: Stephen Herrera, jr., center, 6-3; Carlos Ruvalcaba, jr., forward, 5-10; Dillon Montoya, so., guard, 5-9; Peter Lujan, so., guard, 5-8; Isaiah Salazar, so., guard, 5-6; Alec Lopez, so., guard, 5-5; Santi Archuleta, so., forward, 5-9; Tim Sisneros, so., forward, 5-11; Estevan Mayorga, fr., center, 6-2; Erik Morton, so., guard, 5-7.

Overview: A youthful Dragons squad took its share of lumps last season, as a number of freshmen and sophomores were forced to play significant varsity minutes.

But after graduating just one senior, Lujan hopes this year’s team will benefit from that experience. Monte del Sol will need juniors Herrera and Ruvalcaba to assume leadership roles. Depth should be an area of strength: Lujan believes the five guards and four big men in his rotation are all capable of starting. The Dragons will have some bulk in the paint with 6-2, 240pound freshman Mayorga and 5-11, 220pound sophomore Sisneros. However, the young big men need to be more assertive in the paint.

McCurdy Bobcats 2015-16 record: 11-13, 4-6 in 5-2A. Lost to Magdalena 72-53 in the first round of the 2A state tournament.

Head coach: Ernesto Espinoza (second year) Key players: Andres Martinez, sr., forward, 5-foot-8; Jayson Bustos, sr., guard, 5-5; Andrew Ortiz, sr., guard, 5-8; Joshua Waters, sr., wing, 5-10; Ubaldo Barela, so., center, 6-0.

Overview: The Bobcats are a blend of experience and youth, as seven seniors join five sophomores on the roster. Bustos and Martinez were role players last year, but they will have to take on expanded roles as the Bobcats enter Class 3A. With a bevy of upperclassmen, it stands to reason McCurdy should be the primary challenger to Dulce in 2-3A. If that comes to fruition, a spot in the state tournament should follow.

DistriCt 3-3A

Pecos Panthers 2015-16 record: 23-7, 9-1 in 2-3A. Lost to Texico 79-57 in the Class 3A semifinal.

Head coach: Ira Harge (fourth year) Key Players: Mario Archuleta, jr., forward, 6-0; Carlos Cordova, jr., forward, 6-0; Cameron Quintana, sr., forward, 6-0; Isaac CdeBaca, sr., post, 6-0; Jacob Varela, jr., guard, 5-6; Joshua DeHerrera, jr., guard, 5-9.

Overview: Since Harge took the helm, the Panthers have improved in each of the past three seasons. With its own version of the “Big Three” returning, Pecos has a reasonable expectation of continuing that trend even after reaching the 3A semifinals last year. The trio of Archuleta,

Cordova and Quintana earned all-district honors in 2015-16. Archuleta has been playing varsity since eighth grade and led the team in scoring as a freshman and sophomore. The rangy Cordova is the team’s defensive specialist, while Quintana is the top rebounder. Perhaps the biggest question is who will run the show following the graduation of point guard Arturo Archuleta. Junior Jacob Varela gets first crack at those duties, and while he doesn’t have the experience of Archuleta, Harge believes he may be quicker. Eyeing an eventual postseason showdown with preseason No. 1 Texico, the Panthers will challenge themselves against bigger schools in pre-district tournament play.

Desert Academy Wildcats 2015-16 record: 17-13, 6-4 in 2-3A. Lost to Tucumcari 74-52 in the first round of the Class 3A tournament.

Head coach: Ernie Rodriguez (fourth year) Key players: John Rigatti, sr., wing, 6-3; Taso Warsa, sr., wing, 6-0; Sundy Khalsa, sr., guard, 5-9.

Overview: The Wildcats will be heavily reliant on the senior trio of Rigatti, Warsa and Khalsa, as the rest of the roster has minimal experience at the varsity level.

Rigatti, a three-year starter, is a jack-ofall-trades: He can run the offense, score in the post and is usually assigned to guard the opposing team’s best offensive player.

Playing big minutes shouldn’t be an issue for the three, because last season’s squad rarely went more than six players deep en route to a first-round appearance in the state tournament. The Wildcats could replicate that feat and contend in district play if the newcomers adapt quickly.

Academy for technology and the Classics Phoenix 2015-16 record: 5-20, 1-9 in 2-3A Head coach: Adam Garcia (first year) Key players: David Prada, jr., wing, 5-11; Gabriel Lopez, so., forward, 5-11; Issiah Rivera, jr, guard, 5-6; Sean Delica, sr., guard, 5-6; Michael King, jr., wing, 5-6; John King, jr. wing, 5-7; Chris Brewer, so., center, 6-1.

Overview: Garcia and the Phoenix haven’t had much time to get to know each other, since the first-year coach took over the team in October. That lack of familiarity has led to some interesting lineup shuffling in the early going. Case in point: Prada played post in the opening game before shifting to point guard in the next.

Prada could conceivably play all five positions before the year is through, while sophomore forward Gabriel Lopez could play four spots. Both are versatile players with the ability to score inside and out.

The Phoenix hope to employ a pressuring defensive style that will lead to transition opportunities and minimize their lack of size. There will be growing pains in the season’s early months, but if everything comes together, Garcia hopes his squad will be clicking by the time district play rolls around.

tierra Encantada Alacranes 2015-16 record: 9-16, 0-8 in 2-2A Head coach: Damon Laemmle (first year) Key players: Justin Vigil, sr., guard, 5-9; Joel Torrez, sr., forward, 5-10; Chris Yowell, jr., post, 6-1; Brian Chavez, so., guard, 5-6; Enrique Salazar, so., center, 6-4; Santiago Archuleta, jr., guard, 5-6; Juanito Torrez, so., guard, 5-7; Johnny Byers, jr., forward, 5-8; A.J. Montano, jr., forward, 5-10; Manny Hernandez, sr., guard, 5-9; Leonard Romero, jr., forward, 6-0; Erik Ortega, so., forward, 6-0.

Overview: The Alacranes make the leap from Class 2A to Class 3A with no returning starters, and the four players who are back from last year’s roster have little game experience. That said, seniors Vigil, Torre and Hernandez will be responsible for assuming leadership roles as the team adjusts to both playing at the varsity level and to a larger classification. Work ethic and willingness to be coached have been bright spots for the callow squad thus far. It will be an uphill struggle after the Alacranes finished winless in District 2-2A, but Laemmle hopes that an emphasis on fundamentals will lead to his team competing at a high level on a consistent basis.

Class 4A DistriCt 2-4A

West Las Vegas Dons 2015-16 record: 23-9, 4-2 in 2-4A; lost to Hope Christian in the 4A state championship game.

Head coach: David Bustos (13th year) Key players: D.J. Bustos, sr., guard, 6-foot-3; Isaiha Gallegos, sr., forward, 5-10; Fenix Young, sr., post, 6-1; Estevan Madrid, sr., forward, 6-1; Moses Esquibel, sr., guard, 5-10.

Overview: The argument could be made that the Dons will only go as far as D.J. Bustos will carry them. That’s probably true, although it’s not entirely fair. The team has proven in the past it is good enough to win when their star struggles or even goes down with an injury, making their back-to-back runs to the 4A championship game even more impressive. To finally crack the Hope Christian domination, the Dons must first tame a ridiculously deep and challenging district that features four of the top eight teams in the preseason poll.

Las Vegas robertson Cardinals 2015-16 record: 26-5, 4-2 in 2-4A; lost to West Las Vegas in the 4A state semifinals.

Head coach: Manuel Romero (5th year) Key players: Arjay Ortiz, jr., guard, 6-foot2; Juan Marcos Dominguez, jr., forward, 6-0; Dante Jenkins, sr., center, 6-2; Diego Chavez, sr., guard, 5-6; Charlie Hillis, jr., forward, 6-1; Noah Leger, jr., guard, 5-10.

Overview: The Cardinals burst into the state’s elite class last year with a threeheaded monster of Ortiz and departed seniors Sebastian Gonzales and Warren Fulgenzi. The team may actually be even better this year with an infusion of size and explosive scoring inside and out. Ortiz will be the go-to guy, but any number of role players on last year’s team, including a newcomer or two, will make Robertson one of the top threats to Hope Christian’s dynasty in 4A.

taos tigers 2015-16 record: 9-17, 0-6 in 2-4A; lost to West Las Vegas in the first round of the 4A state tournament.

Head coach: Daniel Trujillo Key players: Landen Archuleta, sr., post, 6-foot-3; Quinn Moon, so., guard, 5-10; Ian Martinez, sr., post, 6-1; Isaac Esquibel, sr., guard, 5-10.

Overview: It’s not a good time to be in rebuilding mode, and it’s certainly not a good time to roll out an extremely young and inexperienced roster. The Tigers made it to the state tournament on the strength of a 2-4A slate that was the state’s best a year ago. It gets even deeper and better with the addition of St. Michael’s, making the Tigers the consensus pick to finish last despite having a team that should push into double-digit wins this season.

still about a year away. There are only four seniors on the roster, but the majority of the scoring punch comes from a deep corps of underclassmen. That includes Alonzo, a shooting guard who wants the ball in crunch time. The Braves remain in 5-4A, but it’s a revamped look with the exodus of fourtime defending state champ Hope Christian and perennial power St. Michael’s.

Class 5A DistriCt 2-5A

Capital Jaguars 2015-16 record: 27-5, 6-2 in 2-5A. Lost to Española Valley 36-34 in the Class 5A championship game.

Head coach: Ben Gomez (fourth year) Key players: Jeremy Anaya, sr., guard, 5-foot-9; Isiah Brooks, sr., post, 6-0; Tyler Alarid, jr., guard, 5-7; Marcos Valenzuela, jr., guard, 5-7; Brandon Lucero, sr., wing, 6-0; Seth Arroyos, fr., forward, 6-1; Marcos Vargas, sr., wing, 5-10.

Overview: The Jaguars have to replace a first-team all-state player in Eric Coca, but Anaya was the team’s leading scorer (14.2 ppg) and Brooks offers an inside presence.

Valenzuela is a transfer from St. Michael’s and has varsity experience, while Alarid and Lucero will be called upon to step into larger roles. Capital also has a strong freshman class, with Arroyos being one of a couple of players stepping up to varsity, but it will need some time to get acclimated to the speed and strength of that level. There is plenty of talent, though, for the Jaguars to make another run toward a Class 5A title.

Los Alamos 2015-16 record: 10-19, 1-7 in 2-5A. Head coach: Mike Kluk (third year) Key players: Jack Stewart, jr., guard, 6-foot; Antonio Trujillo, jr., guard, 5-7; Ivan Balakirev, jr., center, 6-5; Adam Paulson, sr., forward, 6-5; Kyle Newell, sr., guard, 5-8; Troy Hammock, jr., forward, 6-3.

Overview: This might be the year the Hilltoppers muscle their way into the conversation in the district and perhaps the state.

The team is loaded with upperclassmen.

Stewart is an emerging player who has been Los Alamos’ best player for the past two years. Trujillo will miss the first couple of weeks of the season with a thumb injury.

Size is the Hilltoppers’ strength, with five players 6-3 and taller. If they can continue to progress, the Hilltoppers should make the state tournament and be a dangerous team for opponents in the postseason.

Española Valley

Thomas Pacheco, right, is a senior guard for the St. Michael’s Horsemen.

NEW MEXICAN FILE PHOTO

st. Michael’s Horsemen 2015-16 record: 10-15, 4-4 in 5-4A; lost to Sandia Prep in the first round of the 4A state tournament.

Head coach: Ron Geyer (12th year) Key players: Adam Tupler, sr., post, 6-foot-3; Luke Archuleta, sr., post, 6-1; Thomas Pacheco, sr., guard, 5-10; Raymond Sena, sr., 5-9; Jevon Montoya, so., guard, 5-9; Curtis Rogers, sr., guard, 5-9; Antonio Gabaldon, jr., post, 5-11.

Overview: Not blessed with a lot of size, the Horsemen will do much of their work with a backcourt that will take its chances from the outside and do what it can by attacking the basket. Of course, there’s always the Geyer defense, a trademark of a program that has averaged 19.9 wins a year under their hall-of-fame head coach.

The team is moving into new digs this year, joining 2-4A alongside traditional northern rivals. That move may keep them away from Hope, but it will also make the sledding that much tougher come February against some of the top teams in the state.

DistriCt 5-4A

santa Fe indian school Braves 2015-16 record: 15-15, 3-5 in 5-4A; lost to Bloomfield in opening round of the 4A state tournament Head coach: Jason Abeyta (second year) Key players: Nick Kaye, fr., guard, 5-foot-11; Jason Abeyta, so., guard, 5-4; Kurt Candelaria, jr., forward, 5-10; Raheem Alonzo, jr., guard, 5-8; James Bridges, so., forward, 6-2; Brandon Archuleta, sr., guard, 5-8.

Overview: Abeyta enters his first full year as the team’s permanent head coach, and what he inherits is a team whose future is

2015-16 record: 24-9, 6-2 in 2-5A. Beat Capital 36-34 in the Class 5A championship game.

Head coach: Eric Martinez (first year) Key players: Azaziah Salazar, jr., post, 6-foot-4; J.P. Sena, jr., guard, 5-10; Christian Fernandez, jr., guard, 5-10; James Archuleta, jr., post, 6-4; Isaiah Vigil, so., guard, 5-8; Brandon Bustos, jr., wing, 6-0; Justino Rascon, so., post, 6-3.

Overview: Forget the controversy surrounding inactive head coach Richard Martinez; the Sundevils are still the team to beat in 5A. The junior class will determine how Española performs. Sena, Fernandez and Vigil are strong guards, while Salazar, Rascon and Archuleta provide the interior presence on both ends of the court. The depth might not be as formidable as last year, but the starting lineup is as good as any in the state. If the Sundevils can keep the distractions from affecting their chemistry, they have a very good shot at repeating as state champions.

Class 6A DistriCt 2-6A

santa Fe High Demons 2015-16 record: 9-17, 2-6 in 1-6A. Head coach: Zack Cole (first year) Key players: David Marquez, sr., wing, 5-foot-11; Victor Salcido, jr., wing, 6-0; Oscar Perez, sr., guard, 5-10; Everett Robinson, sr., post, 6-6; Bailey Lozada-Cabbage, sr., forward, 6-2; Diego Salinas, sr., guard, 5-11; Jonah Baca, jr., post, 6-4.

Overview: It’s a new day for the Demons under Cole, who arrives to the program after two years in Ramona, Calif. He inherits a team that has a blend of speed and length to make the state tournament (and play in it this time). Marquez, Perez and Salcido make for a potent backcourt that can wreak havoc on opposing guards, while Robinson, Baca and Lozada-Cabbage offer size and strength. Santa Fe High wants to play at an uptempo pace but are developing the discipline to play at a slower tempo if needed.

Consider the Demons a dark horse in 1-6A capable of shocking the state.

Pojoaque Valley Elks 2015-16 record: 22-8, 4-2 in 2-4A; lost to Silver in the 4A state quarterfinals.

Head coach: Joey Trujillo (12th year) Key players: Dominic Roybal, sr., guard, 6-foot-2; Andres Romero, sr., forward, 6-0; Mario Santistevan, jr., forward, 6-0; James Garcia, sr., guard, 6-4; Isaac Roybal, jr., forward, 5-10; Avery Torrez, jr., guard, 5-7.

Overview: Expectations are sky high for a team that will only get better and tougher in a brutally tough 2-4A slate that now includes St. Michael’s. The Elks more than held their own a year ago and come back looking for more with a deep and talented roster that has plenty of solid guard play and just enough size to make things tough against anyone wanting to play a halfcourt game. While points won’t be hard to come by, expect the Elks’ bread and butter to be a tenacious defense that will be among the state’s best.

Española’s Shorty Arellano drives in past Gallup defenders during the Sundevils’ win last month. LUKE E. MONTAVON/FOR THE NEW MEXICAN

HO O P PS

Class 1A DistriCt 1-1A

Coronado Lady Leopards 2015-16 record: 9-17, 6-4 in 1-1A; lost to Elida in the first round of the 1A state tournament.

Head coach: David Chavez (first year) Key players: Soledad Vigil, jr., guard, 5-foot-4; Denise Velasquez, sr., guard, 5-6; Alia Vigil, jr., guard, 5-5; Janessa Madrid, fr., center, 5-9; Victoria Martinez, sr., guard, 5-6; Janessa Madrid, fr., forward, 5-7; Selena Chavez, sr., forward, 5-7.

Overview: Chavez becomes the third coach in as many years for the Lady Leopards, but this isn’t his first go-around. He was with the team four years ago and returns with a group that has plenty of veteran talent from a playoff run a year ago. To make a return trip, the offense will have to get better behind players such as Soledad and Alia Vigil along the perimeter and Madrid in the paint.

NORTHERN NEW MEXICO BASKETBALL PREVIEW: GIRLS

to Taos in the first round of the 4A state tournament.

Head coach: Martin Romero (10th year) Key players: Jocelyn Fernandez, sr., guard, 5-foot-6; Danielle Vigil, sr., post, 6-0; Monse Camarena, sr., guard, 5-4; Sydney Halford, jr., forward, 5-6; Karissa Baca, jr., forward, 5-7.

Overview: The Lady Horsemen make the jump from 5-4A and its annual battles with Albuquerque Hope Christian and Santa Fe Indian School into the more traditional 2-4A along with old foes like West Las Vegas, Robertson and Pojoaque Valley.

That shift will work well if (and only if) the team can hold it together in the chemistry department. Fernandez quit the team late last season, but she’s back and should be one of the top players in 4A.

santa Fe Waldorf Lady Wolves 2015-16 record: 5-16, 1-7 in 1-1A Head coach: Awbrey Willett (first year) Key players: Angela Wagner, jr., center, 5-foot-10; Martine Perez, jr., forward, 5-7; Hannah Laga Abram, so., guard, 5-6; Aylin Sheehan, sr., guard, 5-3; Caroline Kyser, eighth grade, forward, 5-8; Leila Midgette, fr., guard, 5-4 Overview: Willett takes over a program that is razor thin. Only six players are on the varsity roster, making depth and durability a pair of major concerns for a team that struggled with a five-player roster last year. Abram, Sheehan and Perez are the most experienced returning players; expect much of the offense to circulate through them.

New Mexico school for the Deaf Lady roadrunners 2015-16 record: 7-16, 4-6 in 1-1A. Head coach: Dennis Catron (first year) Key players: Janelle Miller, jr., forward, 5-foot-7; Kimberly Sanchez, jr., forward, 5-8; Antonio Martinez, so., guard, 5-0; Mya Malone, fr., wing, 5-6; Lindsay Hand, so., guard, 5-5.

Overview: Catron is the third coach in as many years for the program, but he is a familiar face: Catron was the boys coach from 2013 to 2015. Miller will be a doubledouble presence in the post again, while Martinez and Hand are expected to develop into capable supporting roles. The Lady Roadrunners were competitive in their district last season, and could make their way to the upper half of the district standings.

Class 2A DistriCt 5-2A

Peñasco Lady Panthers 2015-16 record: 9-16, 3-7 in 5-2A. Head coach: Gilbert Mascarenas (first year) Key players: Adrianna Tafoya, fr., guard, 5-foot-4; Bianca Contreras, so., guard, 5-2; Carly Gonzales, fr., forward, 5-7; Charlyna Gonzales, sr., wing, 5-5; Jennifer Aguilar, fr., forward, 5-6.

Overview: It’s a new voice and another rebuilding project for the Lady Panthers.

Tafoya is making her presence known as a freshman, leading the team with 17 points in its season-opening win over Cimarron.

Contreras gives Peñasco a solid guard tandem, but it needs some of its young bigs to develop. That puts the onus on Carly Gonzales and Aguilar to show some skills and help the Lady Panthers become a strong program again.

Mesa Vista Lady trojans 2015-16 record: 17-12, 6-4 in 5-2A. Lost to Melrose 60-37 in the first round of the Class 2A tournament.

Head coach: Bobby Howard (second year) Key players: Aubrianna Martinez, so., guard, 5-foot-1; Darien Halder, sr., forward, 5-10; Azalea Griego, sr., guard, 5-6; Maryssa Martin, jr, guard, 5-5.

Overview: The Lady Trojans were always on the cusp of upending Mora’s run of five straight district championships but could never quite pull it off. They return several starters from last year, with Martinez and Griego forming a potent backcourt tandem. Depth will be an issue, especially after Halder in the post, but the Lady Trojans have the ability to challenge for the 5-2A title again this season.

Escalante Lady Lobos 2015-16 record: 17-10, 6-4 in 5-2A. Lost to Mora, 65-48, in the first round of the Class 2A tournament.

Head coach: Tara Terrazas-Martinez (third year) Key players: Tori Salazar, sr., post, 6-foot1; Rikki Rivas, jr., guard, 5-0; Sarah Hurd, jr., wing, 5-6; Alex Marquez, sr., forward, 5-6; Tenisha Torrez, jr., guard, 5-5.

Overview: Could this be the year for the Lady Lobos? The majority of last year’s team returns, and Salazar returns from an ACL injury last winter. She’ll combine with Marquez and Rivas as the key pieces to Escalante’s offense. Even better is the depth the Lady Lobos have, which could be the tipping point in outlasting Mesa Vista and Mora for the district title.

Mora rangerettes 2015-16 record: 20-10, 10-0 in 5-2A. Lost to Magdalena 48-32 in the Class 2A quarterfinals.

Head coach: Frank Romero (second year) Key players: Maria Garcia, sr., wing, 5-6; Monika Pacheco, sr., forward, 5-6; Esmeralda Lovato, sr., guard, 5-8; Danika Hurtado, jr., wing, 5-7; Amarisa Romero, sr., guard, 5-2.

Overview: This is a senior-dominated team led by Garcia and Pacheco, both of whom are coming off a state championship in volleyball. While the seniors are battle-tested, the younger players will need to develop with Escalante and Mesa Vista breathing down their necks. If that happens, pencil Mora for a seventh straight district title (the third in 5-2A).

Questa Lady Wildcats 2015-16 record: 8-16, 2-8 in 5-2A.

Santa Fe Indian School’s Franki Chavez drives for a shot last month against Santa Fe High. The Lady Braves are a young team; they don’t have a senior on the varsity roster. LuKE E. MONTAVON/FOR THE NEW MExICAN Head coach: Monica Archuleta (first year) Key players: Ashley Cintas, sr., guard, 5-foot-4; Larissa Passino, jr., wing, 5-6; Helena Padilla, sr., forward, 5-7; Marie Sanchez, sr., guard, 5-6; Christina Cisneros, fr., guard, 5-2.

Overview: Running and gunning might be popular in Northern New Mexico, but the Lady Wildcats are going in another direction: valuing possession. Questa has had a problem trying to keep up with district teams, so Archuleta is employing a slower tempo. Cintas is leading the team so far with 14.3 points per game, and the Lady Wildcats are just points away from starting the season 3-0 instead of 1-2. Regardless, Questa faces quite the challenge in a loaded 5-2A, so a spot in the state tournament would be seen as a success.

Rowan Brown, center; Hailee Scarborough, guard; Aleida Martinez, forward; Cassidy Logan, center; Natalie Longmire-Kulis, guard; Savannah Scarborough, guard; Liese Rios, guard; Rimley Bauer, forward.

Overview: First the good news: After initially having just two players interested in playing basketball earlier this fall, the Wildcats found enough athletes to field a team. The bad news, however, is that most of those players’ athleticism has not yet translated to the hardwood. Ciofalo hopes the team can rely on its natural physical talent and speed until it gains more experience as the schedule progresses.

If there is a clear strength, it’s down low, where the Wildcats’ core of players, such as Rigatti, Brown, Martinez and Bauer, will anchor the paint.

Class 3A DistriCt 2-3A

santa Fe Prep Blue Griffins 2015-16 record: 7-15, 4-6 in 2-3A. Head coach: Brent Cooper (first year) Key players: Lucinda Patrus, fr., guard, 5-2; Bernice Talachy, so., guard, 5-2; Sage Crosby, sr., guard, 5-2; Ashley Thomas, sr., forward, 5-7.

Overview: The downward spiral for the Blue Griffins hit its nadir on Tuesday when they lost to Escalante 83-0. Its top returning scorer, Patrus, averaged less than 2 points per game, and new coach Cooper is in a Catch-22. It’s a team that has a mix of skilled, but inexperienced players, along with players who have little skill and less experience. The rebuilding process is going to be arduous, but it has to begin somewhere.

Monte del sol Lady Dragons 2015-16 record: 10-16, 6-4 in 2-3A Head coach: Ricardo Arredondo (third year) Key players: Monica Rubalcava, sr., post; Ariana Rodriguez, sr., post; Brooke Gallegos, sr., guard; Jessica Sandoval, sr., wing; Alejandra Castillo, jr., guard; Karina Pena, so., post; Arianna Gomez, fr., post.

Overview: Because of financial issues, the Dragons nearly didn’t field a team this season. Even with that settled, Monte del Sol must deal with a number of other difficulties, including fewer players and a lack of gym space. While the starting lineup will feature four seniors and one junior, the Dragons’ bench is populated with decent athletes who haven’t grown up playing basketball. A lack of continuity surrounding the core starting five, who have been in the program for three years as other players have come and gone, could lead to on-court chemistry issues, especially early in the season. The Dragons will use speed and quickness to compensate for a lack of size while hoping that the group comes together in time for district play.

McCurdy Lady Bobcats 2015-16 record: 11-15, 4-7 in 5-2A Head coach: Ron Sanchez (second year) Key players: Karla Santos, jr., guard, 5-foot-3; Erica Loretta, fr., post, 5-10; Avaira Arroyo, jr., forward, 5-5; Serena Barela, jr., forward, 5-5; Marissa Sandoval, jr., guard, 5-4.

Overview: The Lady Bobcats figure to be well-balanced behind leading scorer Santos, with the rest of the starting lineup capable of averaging eight to 10 points per game. After struggling with rebounding last season, the presence of 5-10 freshman post Loretta should help shore up some of McCurdy’s deficiencies on the boards.

Sandoval provides much-needed perimeter shooting. The junior-laden core will run an uptempo attack and benefit from having spent a year learning Sanchez’s system.

DistriCt 3-3A

Desert Academy Lady Wildcats 2015-16 record: 2-21, 0-10 in 2-3A Head coach: Jake Ciofalo (first year) Key players: Olivia Rigatti, forward;

LuIS SANCHEZ SATuRNO/NEW MExICAN FILE PHOTO

Pecos Lady Panthers 2015-16 record: 17-11, 8-2 in 2-3A. Lost to Tucumcari 67-31 in the first round of the Class 3A tournament.

Head coach: Ron Drake (third year) Key players: Cassie Muller, so., guard, 5-4; Jamie Varela, sr., forward, 5-8; Megan Armijo, sr., guard, 5-5; Brooke Gallegos, sr., wing, 5-6; Reyna Perez, jr., forward, 5-7.

Overview: With better free-throw shooting, the Lady Panthers would have been a very good team last year, but they have the talent to win their new district even if that quality doesn’t improve. Muller stepped in immediately and became the Panthers’ top player, while Armijo has developed into a solid point guard. Gallegos and Varela are experienced, if not undersized, in the frontcourt. Pecos’ new district is not as challenging as 2-3A, but the team’s goals are to advance in the state tournament.

Academy for technology and the Classics Phoenix 2015-16 record: 4-21, 2-8 in 2-3A. Head coach: Kirsten Beach (first year) Key players: Ashley Zapata, jr., guard, 5-foot-6; Felicity Sealy, jr., wing, 5-7; Evaliz Valladares, jr., guard, 5-1; Valeria Cera, fr., guard, 5-5; Reina Rodriguez, jr., forward, 5-6.

Overview: Will the Phoenix become more than the Zapata and Sealy Show? If that happens, they might be more than a mere nuisance to the likes of Pecos and Raton in the district. Still, Zapata and Sealy provide an inside (Sealy)/outside (Zapata) presence for ATC to build around. The program is in a building phase, and it shows in a roster that is predominantly underclassmen. Still the Phoenix’s dynamic duo should be enough for them to the thirdplace team in the district.

Class 4A DistriCt 2-4A

st. Michael’s Lady Horsemen 2015-16 record: 16-13, 3-5 in 5-4A; lost

Class 5A DistriCt 2-5A

Capital Lady Jaguars

2015-16 record: 6-22, 1-7 in 2-5A. Head coach: Dale Lucero (third year) Key players: Kyannah Cole, so., wing, 5-foot-7; Rachel Friend, sr., post, 5-10; West Las Vegas Miranda Cortez, so., guard, 5-4; Ishara Sorensen, jr., forward, Lady Dons 5-9; Deeanza Booker, so., 2015-16 record: 25-4, wing, 5-7; Maria Chavez, 6-0 in 2-4A; lost to jr., guard, 5-3.

Santa Fe Indian School Overview: Last seain the 4A state quarson was a step in the terfinals. right direction for Head coach: Jose the Lady Jaguars.

Majic Medina They won their most Key players: games in four years, Annalysse Lucero, sr., beat Santa Fe High guard, 5-foot-4; Jenna and saw a relatively Bustos, jr., guard, 5-7; young team grow up.

Jenika Padilla, sr., guard, The loss of guard Gabby 5-7; Alisson Hill, sr., guard, Ortiz, who transferred to 5-6; Tiffany Encinias, sr., forEspañola in the offseason, ward, 5-5; Skylin Morgan, fr., takes away Capital’s leading forward, 5-7; Adrianna Crespin, Capital’s Kyannah scorer, but Cole and Cortez Cole is a sophojr., forward, 5-7. more wing for the can help ease the pain of her Overview: Like most anyone absence. While experienced, Lady Jaguars. else, the Lady Dons lost some the Lady Jaguars remain big names. The difference is LuIS SáNCHEZ SATuRNO/ young, with six underclassmen THE NEW MExICAN what Medina brings back, and on the roster. Still, the goal is that’s a group that’s not terto reach the state tournament ribly deep but is loaded with and finish in the top three in the district. talent in the frontcourt and backcourt.

Lucero is an explosive player who is adept Los Alamos Lady Hilltoppers at generating points inside or out, while Bustos is the latest in a long line of sib2015-16 record: 22-8, 6-2 in 2-5A. Lost lings to carry the load at shooting guard. to Española Valley, 79-52, in the Class 5A quarterfinals.

Las Vegas robertson Head coach: Josh Archuleta (first year) Key players: Ashley Logan, sr., wing, Lady Cardinals 5-foot-9; Elena Abeyta, sr., guard, 5-6; 2015-16 record: 14-15, 3-3 in 2-4A; lost Shannon Irwin, sr., forward, 5-10; Ashley to Bloomfield in the first round of the 4A Atencio, jr., forward, 5-8; Katya Skurikhin, state tournament. sr., post, 5-11; Sienna Ahlers, sr., wing, 5-6.

Head coach: Leroy Barela (fourth year) Overview: The Lady Hilltoppers saw Key players: Alianza Darley, jr., forward, plenty of turnover in the offseason. They 5-foot-11; Tessa Ortiz, fr., guard, 5-8; Maria lost their two top players (Kayla Salazar Barela, eighth grade, guard, 5-5; Jazmyne and Ashlynn Trujillo) and their head coach Jenkins, so., post, 5-10; Angelica Montoya, (Nestor Trujillo), but have Logan and sr., post, 6-2.

Abeyta as key returners. Logan brings an Overview: The building blocks have been inside-outside game, while Abeyta will established, and the team that could make run the point guard spot. Ahlers, Irwin and waves in a deep 2-4A race is ready to see Atencio provide scoring support, and Irwin what it can do. Nearly half the varsity rosoffers size in the paint. Los Alamos might ter is comprised of seniors, but the variety not play as uptempo as it has before, but of young (Ortiz, Barela, Darley, Jenkins) it has already shown a tough defense that and old (Montoya and Co.) makes this should keep them in most games and team’s long-term stability part of the optimake some noise in district play. mism that makes this a potential breakout year for the Lady Cardinals.

taos Lady tigers

Brooke Gallegos is a senior wing for the Pecos Lady Panthers.

as the season starts; the Lady Braves lack a single senior on the varsity roster.

It’s a concern, but it’s not something that has the potential to derail what could be another deep run into the state tournament. The only question is the learning curve for the talented players stepping into prominent roles this winter.

2015-16 record: 17-13, 3-3 in 2-4A; lost to Shiprock in the 4A state quarterfinals.

Head coach: David Sanchez (first year) Key players: Elena Espinoza, sr., guard, 5-foot-4; Aaliyah Quintana, jr., guard, 5-4; Lauralee Trujillo, fr., guard, 5-5; Caitlyn Tafoya, fr., guard, 5-6; Shaniya Sanft, jr., guard, 5-5; Pam Romero, jr., guard, 5-4.

Overview: Sanchez takes over after serving as an assistant for the last four years.

He inherits a team that was hit hard by graduation, a prospect that is only compounded by the fact that there are no off nights in what will be a competitive 2-4A slate that now includes St. Michael’s.

Much of the offense runs through Quintana, a veteran guard who will be a top scorer all season.

Pojoaque Valley Elkettes 2015-16 record: 12-16, 0-6 in 2-4A; lost to Kirtland Central in the first round of the 4A state tournament.

Head coach: Seledon Martinez (second year) Key players: Taylor Roybal, so., guard, 5-5; Felyse Cordova, sr., guard, 5-6; Kalei Windham, sr., forward, 5-8; Camille Cordova, so., forward, 5-8.

Overview: Martinez did what he could to stabilize the Elkettes last year, winning a dozen games and getting the team into state. It came at the expense of a long skid to end the season, as the team lost its last nine games and went zero-forFebruary when the games truly mattered. Much of the scoring punch from that club is gone, leaving a core of younger players to fill the void in what will be a tough and more balanced 2-4A slate.

Española Valley Lady sundevils

2015-16 record: 25-5, 7-1 in 2-5A. Lost to Gallup, 53-33, in the Class 5A semifinals.

Head coach: Cindy Roybal (third year) Key players: Alexis Trujillo, sr., post, 5-foot-10; Leah DeAguero, sr., guard, 5-2; Alycia Archibeque, sr., wing, 5-5; Gabby Ortiz, sr., guard, 5-2; Brenda Garduño, sr., post, 5-7; Kaylee Chavez, so., guard, 5-3.

Overview: The Lady Sundevils’ window of opportunity to win a state title is closing fast. Trujillo is fully healed from her ACL injury last year and should continue to show the dominant form that will likely make her an all-state player come March.

Ortiz’s insertion into the lineup gives Española another shooter to space the floor, but depth — especially in the paint — is a serious weakness. The absence of Kaitlyn Romero, a wing who could create her own shot, will be missed, but the Lady Sundevils have enough talent to win another district title and make a deep run in the state tournament.

Class 6A DistriCt 2-6A

santa Fe High Demonettes

2015-16 record: 8-19, 0-8 in 1-6A. Head coach: Lanse Carter (first year) Key players: Adonica Baca-Martinez, jr., wing, 5-foot-9; Taylor Salazar, so., guard, 5-5; Elena Gonzales, sr., post, 5-11; Alayna Montoya, forward, sr., 5-7; Angelica Tapia, jr., guard, 5-4; Destiny Chavez, sr., guard, 5-3.

Overview: It’s almost a repeat of the 2015-16 season.

DistriCt 5-4A New coach, new system.

Players take santa Fe half the season to indian school adapt before showing progress. It wasn’t supLady Braves posed to go that way, but 2015-16 record: 20-11, when then-head coach Rick 6-3 in 5-4A; lost to Shiprock in Apodaca was placed on adminsemifinals of 4A state tournaNew Santa Fe istrative leave just days before ment.

High coach the season opener on Nov. Head coach: Christy Abeyta Lanse Carter.

19, Carter took over, and the (second year) LuKE E. MONTAVON learning process began again.

Key players: Leanna Lewis, so., FOR THE NEW Baca-Martinez has the size and MExICAN forward, 5-foot-8; Tyra Yepa, skill to help with ball-handling jr., forward, 5-6; Iris Emery, fr., as well as scoring. The rest of guard, 5-6; Camilla Lewis, so., the team is undersized and learning how forward, 5-6; Marlena Yazzie, so., guard, to adapt to Carter. There will be plenty 5-3; Megan Lewis, so., forward, 5-7. of growing pains through the first month Overview: The Lady Braves’ offense has of the season, but a clear picture of the the potential to be extremely good with Demonettes won’t come until the calendar players like Leanna Lewis and Yepa making turns. waves in the paint and guards like Emery and Yazzie serving as threats from the Capsules by James Barron outside. The problem is the team’s youth and Will Webber

Joel Nakamura, Santa Fe

For over 125 years, Century Bank has been a proud supporter of community, educational and athletic programs throughout New Mexico. To begin your local community banking relationship, stop by, call us or visit our website today.

MyCentur yBank .com 505.995.1200