Tuesday, March 31, 2009

WAC Football Schedules

Boise State
Sept. 3 vs. Oregon
Sept. 12 vs. Miami of Ohio
Sept. 18 at Fresno State
Sept. 26 at Bowling Green
Oct. 3. vs. Cal Davis
Oct. 14 at Tulsa
Oct. 24 at Hawaii
Oct. 31 vs. San Jose State
Nov. 6 at Louisiana Tech
Nov. 14 vs. Idaho
Nov. 20 at Utah State
Nov. 27 vs. Nevada
Dec. 5 vs. New Mexico State

Fresno State
Sept. 5 vs. Cal Davis
Sept. 12 at Wisconsin
Sept. 18 vs. Boise State
Sept. 26 at Cincinnati
Oct. 3 off
Oct. 10 at Hawaii
Oct. 17 vs. San Jose State
Oct. 24 at NMSU
Oct. 31 vs. Utah State
Nov. 7 at Idaho
Nov. 14 at Nevada
Nov. 21 vs. La. Tech
Dec. 5 at Illinois

Hawaii
Sept. 5 vs. Central Arkansas
Sept. 12 at Washington State
Sept. 19 at UNLV
Sept. 30 at La. Tech
Oct. 10 vs. Fresno State
Oct. 17 at Idaho
Oct. 24 vs. Boise State
Oct. 31 at Nevada
Nov. 7 vs. Utah State
Nov. 14 vs. New Mexico State
Nov. 21 at San Jose State
Nov. 28 vs. Navy
Dec. 5 vs. Wisconsin

Idaho
Sept. 5 at New Mexico State
Sept. 12 at Washington
Sept. 19 vs. San Diego State
Sept. 26 at Northern Illinois
Oct. 3 vs. Colorado State
Oct. 10 at San Jose State
Oct. 17 vs. Hawaii
Oct. 24 at Nevada
Oct. 31 vs. La. Tech
Nov. 7 vs. Fresno State
Nov. 14 at Boise State
Nov. 28 vs. Utah State

Louisiana Tech
Sept. 5 at Auburn
Sept. 12 at Navy
Sept. 19 vs. Nicholls State
Oct. 3 vs. Hawaii
Oct. 10 at Nevada
Oct. 17 vs. NMSU
Oct. 24 at Utah State
Oct. 31 at Idaho
Nov. 7 vs. Boise State
Nov. 14 at LSU
Nov. 21 at Fresno State
Dec. 5 vs. San Jose St.

Nevada
Sept. 5 at Nevada
Sept. 19 at Colorado State
Sept. 26 vs. Missouri
Oct. 3 vs. UNLV
Oct. 10 vs. La. Tech
Oct. 17 at Utah St.
Oct. 24 vs. Idaho
Oct. 31 vs. Haaii
Nov. 8 at San Jose State
Nov. 14 vs. Fresno St.
Nov. 21 at NMSU
Nov. 27 at Boise State

New Mexico State
Sept. 5 vs. Idaho
Sept. 12 vs. Prairie View A&M
Sept. 19 vs. UTEP
Sept. 26 at New Mexico
Oct. 3 at San Diego State
Oct. 10 vs. Utah State
Oct. 17 at La. Tech
Oct. 24 vs. Fresno St.
Oct. 31 at Ohio St.
Nov. 14 at Hawaii
Nov. 21 vs. Nevada
Nov. 28 at San Jose State
Dec. 5 at Boise St.

San Jose St.
Sept. 5 at USC
Sept. 12 vs. Utah
Sept. 19 at Stanford
Sept. 26 vs. Cal Poly
Oct. 10 vs. Idaho
Oct. 17 at Fresno State
Oct. 31 at Boise State
Nov. 7 vs. Nevada
Nov. 14 at Utah St.
Nov. 21 vs. Hawaii
Nov. 28 vs New Mexico State
Dec. 5 at La. Tech

Utah State
Sept. 3 at Utah
Sept. 19 at Texas A&M
Sept. 26 vs. Southern Utah
Oct. 2 at BYU
Oct. 10 at NMSU
Oct. 17 vs. Nevada
Oct. 24 vs. La. Tech
Oct. 31 at Fresno St.
Nov. 7 at Hawaii
Nov. 14 vs. San Jose St.
Nov. 20 vs. Boise St.
Nov. 28 at Idaho

Mesilla's Zach Adams

Mesilla Valley Christian point guard Zach Adams has reportedly received a basketball scholarship offer from NAIA school Vanguard University in California. Other schools are interested in the solid guard, who helped lead MVCS to a state title, a second-place finish and a semifinal appearance in the final three years of his prep hoops career.

- Felix

North/South Girls Basketball Rosters

Class 4A/5A Coaches Association All-Star Game
Game is May 31 at Gallup High School
South Team
Chantale Riddle Roswell
Kyla Taylor Artesia
Jazmine Arias Gadsden
Marissa Mapp Goddard
Viana Villegas Carlsbad
Jenna Franzoy Mayfield
Justina Adams Mayfield
Ashley Godfrey, Las Cruces High
Lisa Uzueta Deming
Brittany Johnson Clovis
Kaitlyn Gray Hobbs
Tiffany Gonzales Deming

North
Brandi Valencia Moriarty
Caitlin Boal St. Pius
Jordan McHee Eldorado
Lateesha Adams West Mesa
Zalika Dyson Cibola
Alex Membrano St. Pius
Kristin Valencia Moriarty
Nikki Ingram La Cueva
Sorrel Huntington Aztec
Megan Muniz Rio Rancho
Micaela Medina Del Norte
Clara Jones Albuquerque

Class 3A
Game is July 10 in Las Vegas
South
Haley Williams, Ruidoso
Amanda Adams, Hatch
Jessica Pound, Socorro
Josie Arviso, Ruidoso
Bailey Shrivers, Hot Springs
Tara Johnson, Portales
Alex Rosales, Hatch
Andrea Torgrimson, Hope Christian
Tonee Montoya, Ruidoso
Dallas Russell, Portales
Etheleen Goombi, Laguna Acoma
Ramona Ramone, Thoreau

North
Jackie Bartelson, Pojoaque
Kristen Encinias, W. Las Vegas
Janelle Roybal, Pojoaque
Crystal Tully, Crownpoint
Ellen Cruz, Pojoaque
Kayla Herrera, St. Mike's
Kim Mares, Robertson
April Johnston, Santa Fe Indian
Shelby Capitan, Tohatchi
Brittany Charles, Crownpoint
Alexandra Romancito, Zuni
Jen Najjar, St. Mike's

Winky Wright vs. Paul Williams

On April 11, an interesting 12-round fight will take place between Winky Wright (51-4-1) and Paul Williams (36-1). The veteran Wright is the underdog in this fight, but he's been one of the top fighters at 154 for many years. He's a tough left-handed defensive fighter and if he's go his 'A' game on, he'll give Williams a challenge.

Meanwhile, Williams is one of the sport's top fighters, but he's been avoided by many of the sport's top stars. He's got power and throws a great deal of punches in addition to a great reach advantage.

A win by Wright puts him back in the national landscape and if Williams wins, he gains more respect and hopefully a shot at another big fight.

My guess is that Williams' reach will be too much and his punch output will be a positive. Williams by decision, 116-112. The fight is slated to be shown on HBO.

- Felix

Monday, March 30, 2009

Some NMSU football notes

Monday was the first day of spring practice for NMSU football.
Here are some notes. Fullback Brandon Perez (hernia) is likely out for the spring and linebacker Nick Paden (knee) could be out as well.

The Aggies are certainly putting more emphasis into the run. They have several guys battling for time at running back.

Quarterbacks Trevor Walls and Jeff Fleming got much of the work on Monday. Both are aiming to replace Chase Holbrook.

- Felix

RB Seth Smith

Running back Seth Smith is back on the New Mexico State football team. He left the team last fall. He was expected to battle for playing time last season. He was a junior college transfer from the College of Seqouias.

- Felix

Sunday, March 29, 2009

Aggies to start spring football practice

By Felix Chavez/Sun-News reporter

LAS CRUCES — New Mexico State head football coach DeWayne Walker has been a busy man since being hired in late December.
He’s put together a solid coaching staff, signed his first recruiting class and on Monday he gets his first look at the 2009 Aggies on the practice field for the start of spring football.
The Aggies will practice at 4 p.m. in the first of 15 practices, which includes the April 25 spring game at Aggie Memorial Stadium. The Aggies will also practice on Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday this week. New Mexico State will have a full contact workout on Saturday at 11:30 a.m.
“The kids have worked hard in the offseason, we’ll put them through different situations and see where they are at,” said Walker, who was previously at UCLA as the school’s defensive coordinator before being hired by NMSU. “We’ll work hard this spring and we’ll try and get a lot of things done.”
One of the things NMSU must get done is see who can play quarterback. Gone is three-year starter Chase Holbrook and backup J.J. McDermott. Walker and his staff signed junior college QB Jeff Fleming and he’ll get a look as will Trevor Walls, Scott Galland, Matt Parsons and Alex Carson, who are all listed on the spring roster. Among the returnees on offense are running back Marquell Colston, receiver Marcus Anderson and offensive linemen Chuck Taylor, Mike Grady and Kyle Smith.
The Aggies hope to be more balanced on offense. Under previous head coach Hal Mumme, the Aggies were primarily a passing team.
“We’ve been working on being more physical,” Aggies offensive line coach Jason Lenzmeier said.
On defense, the Aggies will switch defenses from the 3-3-5 Joe Lee Dunn defense to a 4-3 defense.
Gone are safeties Derrick Richardson and Brennan Baiamonte and defensive lineman Oren Long. But NMSU does return defensive backs Davon House and Alphonso Powell and linebacker Nick Paden. Also back is Jason Scott, who was moved from linebacker to safety.
“We’ll put the team in pressure situations,” NMSU assistant head coach and linebacker coach Dale Lindsey said. “We have some players that can do some good things.”
•••
Lenzmeier is no stranger to New Mexico. He was an assistant coach at the University of New Mexico for three years and also played at the school from 2000-03.
He was hired by Walker without knowing Walker prior to his interview.
“I didn’t know coach, but the interview went well and DeWayne has a lot of potential and he has a vision for what we want to do,” Lenzmeier said. “It’s nice to still be in New Mexico. I love the area and we’re going to work hard to get it done here.”
Lenzmeier said he owes a great deal to former Lobos coach Rocky Long, who resigned after last season. He is now the defensive coordinator at San Diego State.
“I owe so much to coach Long, he signed me to a scholarship, hired me on his staff and helped me get this job,” Lenzmeier said. “I feel like I bring some intensity to the program. We want to be strong up front and be physical.”

Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@lcsun-news.com; (575) 541-5444

Saturday, March 28, 2009

Sunland Derby Jockeys/trainers

While Sunday's Sunland Park Derby is filled with talented horses, the jockey and trainer colony is very good as well. The 12th race will go off at 5:45 p.m.

Among the jockeys in the race are Garrett Gomez, Mike Smith, David Flores, John Velasquez and Victor Espinoza.

Espinoza won the 2002 Kentucky Derby and Preakness aboard War Emblem. Also won the 2006 WinStar Derby at Sunland Park in 2006 aboard Wanna Runner and won the WinStar Sunland Park Oaks in 2007 aboard Tough Tiz's Sis.

Velasquez has won seven Breeders' Cup races and in 2007, won the Belmont Stakes aboard Rags To Riches.

Gomez won two Breeders' Cup races in 2005, was the nation's top jockey in 2008 and won four Breeders' Cup races in 2008.

Flores won the 2003 Arlington Million with Sulamani and won the Breeders' Cup mile in 2004 aboard Singletary.

Smith is a New Mexico favorite. The Roswell born jockey won the 2005 Kentucky Derby aboard Giacomo and won the 1993 Preakness with Prairie Bayou.

Among the top trainers in the field are Todd Pletcher, Bob Baffer, Doug O'Neill and Michael Machowsky.

- Felix

Friday, March 27, 2009

Neiman not on roster

Wide receiver Wes Neiman wasn't listed on the NMSU roster for the upcoming spring. He missed the final few games last year with an injury. He was one of the top receivers the past two years.

Also, defensive lineman David Niumatalolo is listed on the roster. He was a mormon mission.

- Felix

Sunland Derby Capsules, race March 29

Sunland Derby Capsules
By Felix Chavez
Sun-News reporter
SUNLAND PARK — Here is a look at today’s 12-horse field in the Sunland Derby, which will be contested at 1 and 1/8 mile. The race is slated to start at 5:45 p.m.
Horses are in post position order
Valid Stripes
Morning-line odds: 15-1
Jockey: Corey Lanerie
Trainer: O.D. Jamison Jr.
Notes: The Texas-bred standout isn’t the most known horse in the field, but should like the distance and has fared well on the Texas circuit. Has hit board in 6 of 7 races and is the Texas Stallion champion.

Santamonicacanyon
Morning-line odds: 12-1
Jockey: David Flores
Trainer: Darrell Vienna
Notes: This talented young horse is improving and gets one of the top jockeys in the nation in David Flores. Ran second to Kelly Leak, who is in this race. Won race in second career start on Jan. 22 at Santa Anita Park.

Advice
Morning-line odds: 6-1
Jockey: John Velasquez
Trainer: Todd Pletcher
Notes: Pletcher is one of the nation’s top trainers and Velasquez is one of the nation’s top jockeys, making this horse a serious contender because of those connections. Has fared well on different tracks and should be able to handle the distance. Pletcher’s father Jake Pletcher is a former trainer at Sunland Park. Advice is well-bred and could be a very serious challenger here today.

Dumar
Morning-line odds: 12-1
Jockey: Luis Contreras
Trainer: Steve Asmussen
Notes: Ran fifth in Borderland Derby back on Feb. 28 at Sunland. Has failed in two attempts against top notch horses, but does come from good barn and distance won’t be a problem.

Mayor Marv
Morning-line odds: 7-2
Jockey: Victor Espinoza
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Notes: Baffert, Espinoza and owner Mike Pegram have had success before at Sunland Park, winning a WinStar Derby with Wanna Runner in 2006. Mayor Marv is sharp coming in, having won two in a row, including the Turf Paradise Derby. Has hit the board in 6 of 7 and has run against top notch talent in California and in New York.

Scorewithcater
Morning-line odds: 6-1
Jockey: Michael C. Baze
Trainer: Doug O’Neill
Notes: Scorewithcater has been very good since being claimed by O’Neill’s barn, winning 4 of 5, including the Borderland Derby on Feb. 28. O’Neill won two WinStar Derbies in 2003 and 2005. Scorewithcater should like the distance and is a strong closer.

Mythical Power
Morning-line odds: 10-1
Jockey: Garrett Gomez
Trainer: Bob Baffert
Notes: This Baffert horse has shown improvement in young career. Won last out on March 6 at Santa Anita and is well-bred. In addition, this horse gets the very good Garrett Gomez to ride. Gomez is one of the nation’s elite jockeys and could help this horse reach new heights.

Kelly Leak
Morning-line odds: 4-1
Jockey: Mike Smith
Trainer: Michael Machowsky
Notes: Horse has proven to be very tough on a variety of tracks and should be ok at distance. Has earned more than $120,000 in career and gets jockey Mike Smith aboard. Smith hails from Roswell and will certainly be a big hit with the local race fans. Kelly Leak has hit board in 5 of 7 races and has had some good workouts recently.

Mine That Bird
Morning-line odds: 8-1
Jockey: Casey Lambert
Trainer: Chip Woolley
Notes: This son of former Belmont winner Birdstone has plenty of potential. Ran second in Borderland Derby at Sunland and has earned more than $326,000 in career. Should be able to handle the distance and has been on grounds at track in preparation for this race.

Infernal
Morning-line odds: 20-1
Jockey: Mark Villa
Trainer: Bart Hone
Notes: After going 0-for-3 in California, horse came to Sunland Park and earned win on March 10. Is bred to go long and gets the always dangerous Mark Villa to ride.

Mark S the Cooler
Morning-line odds: 12-1
Jockey: Corey Nakatani
Trainer: Doug O’Neill
Notes: This horse gave his connections some hope in this race after a very good workout on March 22 at Hollywood Park. Has run against top horses at Santa Anita. Gets the very good Corey Nakatani aboard.

Smokin’ Legend
Morning-line odds: 20-1
Jockey: Jorge Espitia
Trainer: Dwain Grissom
Notes: Espitia said Wednesday that this horse is training well and should like the longer distance. Ran a nice third in Borderland Derby and appears to be coming into his own. Has run at Churchill Downs and Keeneland Racetracks.

Felix Chavez can be reached at fchavez@lcsun-news.com; (575) 541-5444

Prep Basketball All-Star Teams (Boys)

Class 4A/5A boys
Game to be held July 30 at Pit in Albuquerque
North
Alfonso Hubbard, Gallup
Chad Adams, Highland
Jordan Howard, Highland
Ryan Gesiakowski, Manzano
Matthew Brito, Espanola Valley
Mark Tenorio, Manzano
Gabe Sanchez, Rio Grande
Pat Holmes, Valley
Kevin Nelson, Academy
Joseph Moquino, Sandia
Ryan Myers, St. Pius
Jorel Johnson, Rio Rancho

South
Jaye Crockett, Clovis
Derek Montoya, Artesia
Juhreece Thompson, Hobbs
Arthur Calbert, Clovis
Josh Uzueta, Deming
Nate Abeyta-Robles, Mayfield
Anthony Lopez, Deming
Lucio Luttrell, Las Cruces
Travis Geiger, Alamogordo
Steve Melendrez, Onate
Jordan Ramirez, Deming
Daniel Salazar, Hobbs

3A Boys
Game is July 10, 6:30 p.m. in Las Vegas
North
Jordan Romero, St. Mike's
Jordan Narajno, Santa Fe Indian
Adrian Rivera, W. Las Vegas
Benjamin Roybal, Pojoaque
Michael Yardman-Frank, St. Mike's
Orlando Trujillo, Pojoaque
Diego Ulibarri, St. Mike's
John Martinez, W. Las Vegas
Matt Eriacho, Zuni
Cade Payne, Bloomfield
Sean Henry, Wingate
Larrin Yazzie, Newcomb

South
Nick Bliss, Portales
Billy Good, Portales
Reid Sharpe, NMMI
Walker Partin, Portales
Taylor Gobble, Hatch
Dominic Filosa, Hot Springs
Dillon Nunn, Hatch
Cale Glover, Sandia Prep
Marcus Toya, Thoreau
Matt Escajeda, Hope Christian
William Reinicke, Sandia Prep
Conner Pierce, Hope Christian

Class 1A/2A
Game is July 30 at 5:30 p.m. at Pit in Albuquerque
North
Josh Holweda, Rehoboth
Taylor Smith, Logan
Jaime Cruz, Jr., Mesa Vista
James Porter, Mora
Andrew Blanco, Gallup Catholic
Joseph Gurule, Penasco
Frankie Giron, Mesa Vista
Jimmie Begay Jr., Pine Hill
Jimmy Atwater, Des Moines
Johnny Chaves, Springer
Russ Kamps, Rehoboth
Jon Elwess, Escalante

South
Brett Anderson, Texico
Ryan Schaefer, Bosque Prep
Travis Berryhill, Capitan
Berry Stinnett, Fort Sumner
Tyler Davis, Tularosa
Jeff Reeves, Santa Rosa
Jesse Medrano, Hagerman
Zach Adams, Mesilla Valley Christian
Josh Hunter, Gateway Christian
Kyler Smith, Dora
Arie Trujillo, Clayton
Jeremy Butler, Dora

New Mexico State spring football schedule

March 30th – 4-6 p.m.
March 31st -4-6 p.m.
April 2nd - 4-6 p.m.
April 4th – 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
April 6th - 4-6 p.m.
April 7th - 4-6 p.m.
April 9 - 4-6 p.m.
April 11th – 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
April 13th - 4-6 p.m.
April 14th - 4-6 p.m.
April 16th - 4-6 p.m.
April 18th – 11:30 am – 1:30 pm
April 21st - 4-6 p.m.
April 23rd - 4-6 p.m.
April 25th – 6 p.m. (Spring Game)

Sammy Di Pace

Las Cruces bantamweight Sammy Di Pace won his fight on Thursday night in Houston. He beat Saul Gutierrez via four round decision. He is now 6-0 in his career. He won by scores of 40-36 twice and 39-37. He is expected to fight May 9 in El Paso.

- Felix

Wednesday, March 25, 2009

Sunland Park Derby Post Positions and Odds

Sunland Park's featured race of the meet will be Sunday, March 29 at Sunland Park Racetrack and Casino.

The 1 and 1/8 mile Sunland Derby will be race No. 12 on the 13-race card. Early wagering on the race begins Saturday

Here is the list of horses in order with morning line odds and jockeys

1. Valid Stripes Cory Lanerie 15-1
2. Santamonicacanyon David Flores 12-1
3. Advice John Velasquez 6-1
4. Dumar Luis Contreras 12-1
5. Mayor Marv Victor Espinoza 7-2
6. Scorewithcater Michael Baze 6-1
7. Mythical Power Garrett Gomez 10-1
8. Kelly Leak Mike Smith 4-1
9. Mine That Bird Casey Lambert 8-1
10. Infernal Mark Villa 20-1
11. Mark S the Cooler Corey Nakatani 12-1
12. Smokin' Legend Jorge Espitia 20-1

Onate's Zach Hernandez

Onate High School fullback Zach Hernandez is receiving intereest from three Ivy League schools. He said he plans on attending several camps this summer and is looking forward to possibly playing on the Ivy League level beginning in 2010. Columbia, Brown and Cornell have all shown interest in Hernandez.

- Felix

Lucio Luttrell

Las Cruces High's Lucio Luttrell has been named the New Mexico Gatorade Boys Basketball Player of the Year. Luttrell is headed to Western New Mexico next season.
- Felix

Monday, March 23, 2009

James Hall Jr.

Las Cruces High's James Hall Jr. will play for the USA Football Junior National Team June 13-27 in Canton, Ohio. The U.S., Canada, France, Germany, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand and Sweden will participate in the the tournament. The U.S. will play three games during the tournament.

Hall, who helped lead the Bulldawgs to a Class 5A state title in December, will attend New Mexico State on a football scholarship next Fall.

- Felix

Thursday, March 19, 2009

Onate HS LB Zach Daugherty

Onate HS linebacker Zach Daugherty has already received offers from New Mexico and New Mexico State. Apparently, Oregon is also showing some interest in Daugherty as a strong safety according to a key source. Stay tuned.

Felix

Monday, March 16, 2009

Sammy Di Pace

Unbeaten Las Cruces bantamweight Sammy Di Pace will fight March 26 in Houston against an opponent TBA. The DiPace camp wants a six-rounder if possible.

- Felix

Sunday, March 15, 2009

Saturday's championship scores hoops

Boys Basketball
Championship
Class 5A
La Cueva 56, Highland 52

Class 4A
Roswell 59, Artesia 50

Class 3A
Hope Christian 55, St. Michael’s 44

Class AA
Texico 48, Santa Rosa 46

Class A
Fort Sumner 67, Springer 66

Girls Basketball
Championship
Class 5A
La Cueva 51, Cibola 43

Class A
Cimarron 58, Des Moines 53

Saturday, March 14, 2009

Trout update

Sadly, Austin Trout's fight with Marco Avendano won't happen. Instead Trout faces Martin Avila, who has gone 24 rounds in two fights with veteran Saul Duran and holds a record of 9-4,. Trout (16-0) hopes to get Avendano in May in El Paso. Apparently Avendano pulled out with a contract dispute.

- Felix

Friday, March 13, 2009

Mesilla Christian boys basketball

Wow, what a tough loss for the Mesilla Valley Christian SonBlazers boys basketball team. The SonBlazers weren seeded No. 1, but fell to No. 4 Texico 58-57 in Friday's semifinals.

I thought Mesilla Valley Christian was the better team, but Texico forced several big turnovers down the stretch and MVCS failed to hit some key free throws.

It was weird to see an experienced team like the SonBlazers fail down the stretch, because usually veteran teams don't panic like they did the final 4:27. It was a good year for MVCS with 27 wins and a good portion of the team returns next year, but the team will have to replace guard Zach Adams, one of the top guards in the state.

- Felix

Marco Antonio Barrera vs. Amir Kahn

In an interesting lightweight battle veteran Marco Antonio Barrera takes on upstart Amir Kahn Saturday afternoon in a fight in England.

Barrera has taken on the very best ranging from 122 to 130 and is hoping for one final run at 135. Kahn was regarded as a sound prospect before being stopped two fights back.

Has Kahn recovered? Does Barrera have anything left? Interesting questions. My gut tells me Khan is a bit too fast and strong for Barrera and wins a close decision.

- Felix

Frank Borden

Former Gadsden High boys basketball player Frank Borden is headed back to the NCAA Tournament for the second straight as a member of the American University basketball team.

American beat Holy Cross on Friday afternoon for Patriot League title. The Eagles won their 13th straight game.

American will find out Sunday where they will play and against who in the NCAA tourney.

- Felix

Thursday, March 12, 2009

Deming falls in 4A semis

The Deming High boys basketball team fell 69-64 to Roswell High on Thursday afternoon.
Roswell hit 18 of 23 free throws and outscored Deming 8-2 in the final 1:38 of the game.
Deming shoit just 37 percent from the field and missed 23 of 29 3-pointers.
Anthony Lopez led Deming with 27 points, 23 in the second half.

- Felix

State tournament hoops scores, March 11

Boys Basketball

Class 5A

Quarterfinal

Eldorado 46, Manzano 40

Highland 59, Onate 44

La Cueva 61, Clovis 57

Las Cruces 77, Gallup 74

Class 4A

Quarterfinal

Artesia 69, Los Alamos 58

Deming 79, Belen 68

Espanola Valley 54, St. Pius 51

Roswell 61, Albuquerque Academy 46

Class 3A

Quarterfinal

Hope Christian 84, Santa Fe Indian 50

Portales 85, Socorro 59

Sandia Prep 56, West Las Vegas 48

St. Michael’s 56, Pojoaque 54

Class AA

First Round

Mesa Vista 74, Rehoboth 68

Mesilla Valley Christian 79, Navajo Pine 46

Santa Rosa 61, Pecos 58

Texico 47, Bosque School 44

Class A

First Round

Cliff 58, Carrizozo 42

Dora 87, Des Moines 81, OT

Fort Sumner 61, Tatum 60

Springer 96, Temple Baptist 74

Las Cruces High and Gallup's Alfonso Hubbard

Wednesday night's Las Cruces High/Gallup game was one of the best of the day at the high school state basketball tournament in Albuquerque.

The 5A quarterfinal was evenly matched and credit has to go to the Bulldawgs, who were down nine late in regulation, but rallied for the win. Post Charles Chavez scored 26 points in the second half, 22 in the fourth quarter and in overtime. Sophomore point guard Terrel de Rouen showed he'll be one of the best players in the state in the future with an eigh-assist performance. He handled the pressure well and found Chavez for a layup in overtime to put LCHS up for good.

Meanwhile, Gallup's Alfonso Hubbard is the real deal in New Mexico. He can score outside and inside, he's a good passer and can handle the rock. I don't know if he can play Divison I or not, but it might be worth a look. He averaged 28 points a game for the season and against LCHS had 41. He has a good knack for the game and can score in spurts.

- Felix l

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

State tourney scores, girls, march 10

Girls Basketball
Class 5A
Quarterfinal
Cibola 60, Clovis 52
La Cueva 50, Gallup 47
Sandia 59, Eldorado 46

Class 4A
Quarterfinal
Kirtland Central 58, Aztec 27
Moriarty 51, Shiprock 41
Roswell 46, Belen 38
St. Pius 41, Del Norte 27

Class 3A
Quarterfinal
Pojoaque 49, Socorro 30
Portales 52, West Las Vegas 30
Robertson 65, Lovington 55
St. Michael¹s 47, Santa Fe Indian 44

Class AA
First Round
Lordsburg 70, Mora 66
Navajo Pine 54, Santa Rosa 45
Navajo Prep 54, Tularosa 27
Texico 53, Penasco 31

Class A
First Round
Animas 73, Magdalena 64
Cimarron 47, Fort Sumner 33
Des Moines 52, Cliff 48
Elida 55, Gallup Catholic 52

Monday, March 9, 2009

5A boys basketball quarterfinal matchups at state

Wednesday is the quarterfinals of the state high school basketball tournament for boys teams around the state.

Here's a look at the 5A matchups
No. 1 Manzano vs. No. 9 Eldorado
The Monarchs handled Cibola with relative ease getting 24 points from Ryan Gesiakowski in the process. The 26-2 Monarchs have been solid all season and will get a huge test from Eldorado, which went to Hobbs and won 71-50.
The Eagles have some nice wins this year, including a win at Las Cruces High.
My guess is the Eagles (19-10) will push the Monarchs (26-2) to the limit, but look for MHS to advance to the semis with a 71-63 win.

No. 4 La Cueva vs. No. 5 Clovis
The Bears (22-7) are tough as usual for head coach Frank Castillo. The Bears got 20 poitns from forward Dylan Fritsch in their first round win against Rio Rancho, but Clovis counters with Texas Tech bound forward Jaye Crockett. The Wildcats (20-9) are on a roll late in the year. They beat Hobbs for supermacy in SE New Mexico and advanced to Albuquerque with a win at home vs. Alamogordo last weekend. Look for Crockett to have a big night for the Wildcats in a 64-57 win.

No. 3 Highland vs. No. 11 Onate
The 24-6 Hornets are one of the state's most talented teams led by forward Chad Adams. Highland is tough inside with Adams and Jordan Howard, but the Hornets can shoot from outside as well and if the perimeter game is on, HHS is tough to beat. Highland handled Sandia with ease in the first round, winning 72-53
The Knights (17-12) are a surpise for many to be in the quarters after handling Valley 59-54 last Saturday on the road.
Onate will need another huge effort from guards Isaac Bonnett, Steve Melendrez and Tim Jacobs. And the team will have to rebound well and take care of the ball. OHS gave Highland fits earlier this season before falling 56-47. This game will be closer than some might think, but Highland gets the 65-55 win.

No. 2 Gallup vs. No. 7 Las Cruces
Defense, defense, defense. If the Bulldawgs (22-5)can get it done on the defensive end, they have a great chance of pulling the upset on the 24-3 Bengals.
Alfonzo Hubbard is the do it all star for GHS. He was averging 28 points per game coming into the state tournament.
The last time the Bulldawgs were in the Pit was in 2006 and they lost a double-overtime thriller to Manzano in the quarters. Expect LCHS to give Gallup fits and earn the mild upset. LCHS 70, Gallup 66.

- Felix

Aggies offer QB

New Mexico State has reportedly offered quarterback Meiko Locksley a schlarship to attend the school. The 6-foot junior is son of New Mexico head coach Mike Locksley according to sources. Should be interesting to see how the home visit goes on that one.

- Felix

David Rodriguez and fight in Mexico

Saturday night in Torreon, Mexico, El Paso heavyweight David Rodriguez takes a step up when he takes on Argentina's Manuel Pucheta. Rodriguez is 30-0 with 28 knockouts, while Pucheta is 23-3 with 17 knockouts and has won 7 of his last 10.

Rodriguez, who trains in Las Cruces, is the taller and bigger boxer and he'll have to use jab to try and outwork the veteran Pucheta.

Rodriguez has to win this fight and do it impressively. Rodriguez has no more excuses for fighting less than stellar competition. He has a good set of skills and he's trained hard for this fight, but if he doesn't look impressive it won't matter.

A good showing by Rodriguez could land him a bigger fight later this year and put him a good spot to earn a big paycheck and a shot at breaking into the national spotlight.

- Felix

Updated state hoops tournament matchups/times for boys

Boys
Class 5A
Quarterfinals
Wednesday
The Pit
No. 1 Manzano (26-2) vs. No. 9 Eldorado (19-10), 9:45 a.m.
No. 4 La Cueva (22-7) vs. No. 5 Clovis (20-9), 1:15 p.m.
No. 3 Highland (24-6) vs. No. 11 Onate (17-12), 4:45 p.m.
No. 2 Gallup (24-3) vs. No. 7 Las Cruces High (22-5), 8:15 p.m.

Class 4A
Quarterfinals
The Pit
No. 1 Espanola Valley (24-4) vs. No. 8 St. Pius (21-9), 6:30 p.m.
No. 2 Deming (22-6) vs. No. 7 Belen (18-11), 8 a.m.
No. 3 Roswell High (20-7) vs. No. 6 Academy (9-19), 3 p.m.
No. 4 Artesia (20-8) vs. No. 5 Los Alamos (20-9), 11:30 a.m.

Class 3A
Quarterfinals
Santa Ana Star Center
No. 1 Hope Christian (25-3) vs. No. 9 Santa Fe Indian (16-13), 1:15 p.m.
No. 4 Sandia Prep (19-8) vs. No. 12 West Las Vegas (16-14), 4:45 p.m.
No. 3 Portales (20-8) vs. No. 11 Socorro (15-13), 9:45 p.m.
No. 2 St. Michael's vs. No. 7 Pojoaque (19-10, 8:15 p.m.

Class 2A
Quarterfinals
Santa Ana Star Center
No. 1 Mesilla Valley Christian (26-2) vs. No. 8 Navajo Pine (19-10), 8 a.m.
No. 3 Mesa Vista (24-4) vs. No. 6 Rehoboth (23-3), 11:30 a.m.
No. 4 Texico (26-3) vs. No. 5 Bosque School (23-5), 3 p.m.
No. 2 Santa Rosa (26-4) vs. No. 7 Pecos (18-9), 6:30 p.m.

Class A
Quarterfinals
Bernalillo High School
No. 1 Cliff (26-2) vs. No. 8 Carrizozo (18-5), 2 p.m.
No. 3 Dora (22-5) vs. No. 6 Des Moines (15-12), 3:45 p.m.
No. 4 Tatum (21-7) vs. No. 5 Fort Sumner (17-9), 5:30 p.m.
No. 2 Springer (26-2) vs. No. 7 Temple Baptist (16-7), 7:15 p.m.

Note: All boys games start Wednesday

Sunday, March 8, 2009

Boys Basketball Score, State Hoops 1st Rd, March 7

Boys Basketball
Class 5A
First Round
Clovis 80, Alamogordo 69
Eldorado 71, Hobbs 50
Gallup 64, Santa Fe 47
Highland 72, Sandia 53
La Cueva 72, Rio Rancho 69
Las Cruces 76, Rio Grande 62
Manzano 67, Cibola 54
Onate 59, Valley 54

Class 4A
First Round
Albuquerque Academy 72, Grants 50
Artesia 54, Silver 38
Belen 61, Capital 41
Deming 70, Goddard 37
Espanola Valley 56, Santa Teresa 49
Los Alamos 48, Farmington 41
Roswell 78, Del Norte 62
St. Pius 76, Bernalillo 57

Class 3A
First Round
Hope Christian 87, Dexter 33
Pojoaque 49, Ruidoso 45
Portales 71, Crownpoint 35
Sandia Prep 70, Hatch Valley 45
Santa Fe Indian 55, Lovington 45
Socorro 56, Bloomfield 50
St. Michael’s 57, Newcomb 28
West Las Vegas 77, Wingate 72

Class AA
First Round
Bosque School 75, Tularosa 73, OT
Mesa Vista 83, Mora 49
Mesilla Valley Christian 80, Estancia 14
Pecos 58, Penasco 57, OT
Rehoboth 78, Escalante 63
Santa Rosa 88, Jal 40
Texico 63, Hagerman 52

Class A
First Round
Cliff 68, Valley Christian 37
Des Moines 91, Evangel Christian 84
Dora 63, Clovis Christian 43
Fort Sumner 75, Logan 54
Springer 114, Santa Fe Waldorf School 57
Tatum 42, Reserve 36
Temple Baptist 65, Mountainair 37

Saturday, March 7, 2009

Austin Trout update

Las Cruces junior middleweight Austin Trout looked sharp on Saturday afternoon as he nears his biggest fight of his career next Saturday against Marco Avendano in Torreon, Mexico.

Trout (16-0) and Avendano (27-6) are scheduled to fight 12 rounds in a big bout for both fighters. Trout is looking to make a name for himself in the talented 154-pound division, while the battle-tested Avendano needs this fight to stay in the mix for a title fight.

Trout sparred several rounds with El Paso junior middleweight Abie Han on Saturday and the two have helped each other get ready for their respective fights. Han is also slated to fight in Mexico next weekend.

Trout showed good defensive reflexes in sparring and that could be the difference against the strong-punching Avendano.

Trout winds down training in Las Cruces on Sunday before heading to Mexico tomorrow night.

- Felix

Friday, March 6, 2009

State basketball scores, 1st round girls

Girls Basketball
First Round
Class 5A
Cibola 51, Las Cruces 45
Clovis 66, West Mesa 50
Eldorado 69, Carlsbad 43
Gallup 40, Mayfield 39
La Cueva 47, Hobbs 24
Rio Rancho 58, Manzano 30
Sandia 50, Rio Grande 29
Valley 61, Alamogordo 46

Class 4A
Aztec 41, Deming 37
Belen 65, Espanola Valley 45
Del Norte 43, Artesia 39
Kirtland Central 62, Los Alamos 33
Moriarty 59, Grants 23
Roswell 69, Volcano Vista 48
Shiprock 62, Albuquerque Academy 40
St. Pius 56, Silver 37

Class 3A
Lovington 65, Miyamura 48
Pojoaque 61, Wingate 37
Portales 60, Hatch Valley 17
Robertson 61, Crownpoint 38
Santa Fe Indian 53, Hope Christian 45
Socorro 57, Tohatchi 54
St. Michael’s 62, Thoreau 40
West Las Vegas 58, Ruidoso 48

Class AA
Lordsburg 86, Jemez Valley 38
Mora 25, McCurdy 21
Navajo Pine 69, Coronado 55
Navajo Prep 48, Rehoboth 38
Penasco 69, Pecos 52
Santa Rosa 76, Eunice 49
Texico 44, Jal 20
Tularosa 36, Estancia 35

Class A
Animas 69, Valley Christian 50
Cimarron 71, Evangel Christian 24
Cliff 48, Tatum 25
Des Moines 64, Desert Academy 39
Elida 56, Clovis Christian 51
Fort Sumner 57, Grady 35
Gallup Catholic 56, Carrizozo 26
Magdalena 67, Hondo 19

NMSU football clinic

New Mexico State University head football coach DeWayne Walker and the rest of the Aggies coaching staff will host a coaching clinic on Friday, April 17 for all middle school and high school coaches.

Coach Walker will be bringing longtime friend Kirby Wilson, running backs coach for the World Champion Pittsburgh Steelers, as a special guest coach for the clinic.

The registration fee for the clinic is $25 now and $30 at the door. Food and beverage will be provided. Please contact Juan Lozano at jclozano@nmsu.edu to RSVP or for more information.

Another Prep Baseball Preview

Rio Rancho Rams
Last year, the Rams lost to Onate in he 5A semifinals. This year, the Rams went 22-3 and return several key players, including outfielder Bryer Mueller, third baseman Robert Rodela, utility player Mike Apodaca, pitcher/center fielder Josh Walker and first baseman/designated hitter Blake Swihart.
Among the key newcomers are outfielders Joe Sena and Devon Conley and middle infielders Kris Martinez and Iseha Hines.

Last year the Rams won the New Mexico Invite here in Las Cruces and return this year to defend the title. The head coach for the Rams is Ron Murphy, who won his 300th game last year.

- Felix

Tuesday, March 3, 2009

Update state basketball brackets with times

High School Basketball
State Playoffs
First Round
All Games Saturday
Boys
Class 5A
First Round
No. 16 Cibola at No. 1 Manzano, 7 p.m.
No. 15 Santa Fe at No. 2 Gallup, 6 p.m.
No. 14 Sandia at No. 3 Highland, 3 p.m.
No. 13 Rio Rancho at No. 4 La Cueva, 7p.m.
No. 12 Alamogordo at No. 5 Clovis, 6 p.m.
No. 11 Onate at No. 6 Valley, 7 p.m.
No. 10 Rio Grande at No. 7 Las Cruces High, 7 p.m.
No. 9 Eldorado at No. 8 Hobbs, 7 p.m.

Quarterfinals
The Pit
Wednesday, March 11
Manzano/Cibola winner vs. Eldorado/Hobbs winner, 9:45 a.m.
Clovis/Alamogordo winner vs. Rio Rancho/La Cueva winner, 1:15 p.m.
Highland/Sandia winner vs. Valley/Onate winner, 4:45 p.m.
Las Cruces/Rio Grande winner vs. Santa Fe/Gallup winer, 8:15 p.m.
Semifinals
The Pit
Thursday, March 12
Manzano/Cibola winner vs. Eldorado/Hobbs winner/Clovis/Alamogordo winner vs. Rio Rancho/La Cueva winner, 4:45 p.m.
Highland/Sandia winner vs. Valley/Onate winner, 4:45 p.m. /Las Cruces/Rio Grande winner vs. Santa Fe/Gallup winer, 8:15 p.m.
Finals
The Pit
Saturday, March 14
8:30 p.m.

Class 4A
First Round
No. 16 Santa Teresa at No. 1 Espanola Valley, 4 p.m.
No. 15 Roswell Goddard at No. 2 Deming, 7 p.m.
No. 14 Del Norte at No. 3 Roswell, 7 p.m.
No. 13 Silver at No. 4 Artesia, 6 p.m.
No. 5 Los Alamos at No. 12 Farmington, 6 p.m.
No. 11 Grants at No. 6 Albuquerque Academy, 6 p.m.
No. 10 Capital at No. 7 Belen, 7 p.m.
No. 9 Bernalillo at No. 8 St. Pius, 7 p.m.
Quarterfinals
The Pit
Wednesday, March 11
Goddard/Deming winner vs. Belen/Capital winner, 8 a.m.
Silver/Artesia winner vs. Farmington/Los Alamos winner, 11:30 a.m.
Roswell/Del Norte winner vs. Academy/Grants winner, 3 p.m.
Espanola Valley/Santa Teresa winner vs. St. Pius/Bernalillo winner, 6:30 p.m.
Semifinals
The Pit
Thursday, March 12
Goddard/Deming winner vs. Belen/Capital winner vs. Roswell/Del Norte winner vs. Academy/Grants winner, 3 p.m.
Silver/Artesia winner vs. Farmington/Los Alamos winner vs. Espanola Valley/Santa Teresa winner vs. St. Pius/Bernalillo winner, 6:30 p.m.
Championship
The Pit
Saturday, March 14
4:30 p.m.

Class 3A
First Round
No. 16 Dexter at No. 1 Hope Christian, 6 p.m.
No. 15 Newcomb at No. 2 St. Mike’s, 7 p.m.
No. 14 Crownpoint at No. 3 Portales, 7 p.m.
No. 13 Hatch Valley at No. 4 Sandia Prep, 5 p.m.
No. 12 W. Las Vegas at No. 5 Wingate, 5 p.m.
No. 6 Bloomfield at No. 11 Socorro, 7 p.m.
No. 10 Ruidoso at No. 7 Pojoaque, 7 p.m.
No. 9 Santa Fe Indian at No. 8 Lovington, 7 p.m.
Quarterfinals
Santa Ana Star Center
Wednesday, March 11
Portales/Crownpoint winner vs. Bloomfield/Socorro winner, 9;45 a.m.
Hope Christian/Dexter winner vs. Lovington/Santa Fe Indian winner, 1:15 p.m.
Wingate/W. Las Vegas winner vs. Sandia Prep/Hatch Valley Winner, 4:45 p.m.
Pojoaque/Ruidoso winner vs. Newcomb/St. Michael’s winner, 8:15 p.m.
Semifinals
The Pit
Friday, March 13
Hope Christian/Dexter winner vs. Lovington/Santa Fe Indian winner vs. Wingate/W. Las Vegas winner vs. Sandia Prep/Hatch Valley Winner, 9:45 a.m.
Newcomb/St. Michael’s winner/Pojoaque/Ruidoso winner vs. Portales/Crownpoint winner vs. Bloomfield/Socorro winner, 1:15 p.m.
Championship
The Pit
Saturday, March 14
12:30 p.m.

Class 2A
First Round
Escalante at Rehoboth, 5 p.m.
Navajo Pine at Coronado, 7 p.m.
Mora at Mesa Vista, 6 p.m.
Penasco at Pecos, 3 p.m.
Estancia at Mesilla Valley, 6 p.m.
Jal at Santa Rosa, 6 p.m.
Texico at Hagerman, 6 p.m.
Tularosa at Bosque School 6 p.m.

Class A
First Round
Santa Fe Waldorf at Springer, 6 p.m.
Des Moines at Evangel Christian, 4 p.m.
Clovis Christian at Dora, 6 p.m.
Fort Sumner at Logan, 6:30 p.m.
Valley Christian Academy at Cliff, 7 p.m.
Mountainair at Temple Baptist, 6 p.m.
Gallup Catholic at Carrizozo, 6 p.m.
Reerve at Tatum, 6 p.m.

Girls
Class 5A
First Round
All Games Friday
No. 16 Manzano at No. 1 Rio Rancho, 7 p.m.
No. 15 Carlsbad at No. 2 Eldorado, 6 p.m.
No. 14 West Mesa at No. 3 Clovis, 7 p.m.
No. 13 Gallup at No. 4 Mayfield, 6 p.m.
No. 12 Hobbs at No. 5 La Cueva, 7 p.m.
No. 11 Cibola at No. 6 Las Cruces High, 7 p.m.
No. 10 Rio Grande at No. 7 Sandia, 7 p.m.
No. 9 Valley at No. 8 Alamogordo, 7 p.m.
Quarterfinals
Santa Ana Star Center
Tuesday, March 10
Clovis/West Mesa winner vs. Las Cruces/Cibola winner, 9:45 a.m.
La Cueva/Hobbs winner vs. Mayfield/Gallup winner, 1:15 p.m.
Sandia/Rio Grande winner vs. Carlsbad/Eldorado winner, 4:45 p.m.
Rio Rancho/Manzano winner vs. Alamogordo/Valley winner, 8:15 p.m.
Semifinals
Santa Ana Star Center
Thursday, March 12
Sandia/Rio Grande winner vs. Carlsbad/Eldorado winner vs. Clovis/West Mesa winner vs. Las Cruces/Cibola winner, 9:45 a.m.
Rio Rancho/Manzano winner vs. Alamogordo/Valley winner vs. La Cueva/Hobbs winner vs. Mayfield/Gallup winner, 1:15 p.m.
Championship
The Pit
Saturday, March 14
2:30 p.m.

Class 4A
First Round
No. 16 Silver at No. 1 St. Pius, 7 p.m.
No. 15 Volcano Vista at No. 2 Roswell, 7 p.m.
No. 14 Grants at No. 3 Moriarty, 6 p.m.
No. 13 Los Alamos at No. 4 Kirtland Central, 7 p.m.
No. 12 Aztec at No. 5 Deming, 7 p.m.
No. 11 Albuquerque Academy at No. 6 Shiprock, 7 p.m.
No. 10 Espanola Valley at No. 7 Belen, 6 p.m.
No. 9 Artesia at No. 8 Del Norte, 6 p.m.
Quarterfinals
The Pit
Tuesday, March 10
Belen/Espanola Valley winner vs. Roswell/Volcano Vista girls winner, 9:45 a.m.
St. Pius/Silver winner vs. Del Norte/Artesia winner, 1:15 p.m.
Deming/Aztec winner vs. Kirtland Central/Los Alamos winner, 4:45 p.m.
Moriarty/Grants winner vs. Shiprock/Academy winner, 8:15 p.m.
Semifinals
The Pit
Belen/Espanola Valley winner vs. Roswell/Volcano Vista girls winner vs. Moriarty/Grants winner vs. Shiprock/Academy winner, 9:45 a.m.
St. Pius/Silver winner vs. Del Norte/Artesia winner vs. Deming/Aztec winner vs. Kirtland Central/Los Alamos winner, 1:15 p.m.
Championship
Friday, March 13
8 p.m.

Class 3A Girls
First Round
No. 16 Wingate at No. 1 Pojoaque, 7 p.m.
No. 15 Hatch Valley at No. 2 Portales, 6 p.m.
No. 14 Miyamura at No. 3 Lovington, 7 p.m.
No. 13 Thoreau at No. 4 St. Mike’s, 7 p.m.
No. 12 St. Mike’s at No. 5 Hope Christian, 7 p.m.
No. 11 Robertson at No. 6 Crownpoint, 6 p.m.
No. 10 Ruidoso at No. 7 W. Las Vegas, 7 p.m.
No. 9 Tohatchi at No. 8 Socorro, 7 p.m.
Quarterfinals
The Pit
Tuesday, March 10
Lovington/Miyamura winner vs. Crownpoint/Robertson winner, 8 a.m.
W. Las Vegas/Ruidoso winner vs. Hatch Valley/Portales winner, 11:30 a.m.
Pojoaque/Wingate winner vs. Socorro/Tohatchi winner, 6:30 p.m.
Hope Christian/Santa Fe indian winner vs. St. Mike’s/Thoreau winner, 3 p.m.
Semifinals
The Pit
Thursday, March 12
Lovington/Miyamura winner vs. Crownpoint/Robertson winner vs. W. Las Vegas/Ruidoso winner vs. Hatch Valley/Portales winner, 8 a.m.
Pojoaque/Wingate winner vs. Socorro/Tohatchi winner, vs. Hope Christian/Santa Fe indian winner vs. St. Mike’s/Thoreau winner, 11:30 a.m.
Championship
The Pit
Friday, March 13
6 p.m.

Class 2A Girls
Coronado at Navajo Pine, 6 p.m.
Rehoboth at Navajo Prep, 6 p.m.
Pecos at Penasco, 7 p.m.
McCurdy at Mora, 6 p.m.
Jemez Valley at Lordsburg, 6 p.m.
Eunice at Santa Rosa, 7 p.m.
Texico at Jal, 6 p.m.
Tularosa at Estancia, 6 p.m.

Class A Girls
Evangel Christian at Cimarron, 6 p.m.
Des Moines at Desert Academy, 6 p.m.
Grady at Fort Sumner, 6 p.m.
Elida at Melrose, 7 p.m.
Tatum at Cliff, 7 p.m.
Carrizozo at Gallup Catholic, 6 p.m.
Magdalena at Hondo, 7 p.m.
Animas at Valley Christian Academy, 4 p.m.

Monday, March 2, 2009

Couple of NMSU football notes

The Western Athletic Conference football schedule should be released soon after TV dates are settled.

Also, NMSU linebacker Jason Scott has been shifted from linebacker to safety for spring practice.

- Felix

Juan Manuel Marquez' performance

Wow, what a performance by lightweight Juan Manuel Marquez on Saturday night against the tough Juan Diaz. The younger Diaz put lots of pressure on Marquez early on and appeared to be on his way to earning a close decision.

But the 35-year-old Marquez proved that he has good power once again at 135 and knocked out Diaz in the 9th, his second knockout at that weight. He stopped Joel Casamayor last September.

Marquez is one of the sport's best fighters and seems to be getting better with age. Some of his best performances have come in the past three years. He hung tough against Diaz on Saturday and didn't wilt like so many others have against the Baby Bull's pressure.

Diaz didn't fight badly, he just got caught against a good fighter in what will surely be a Fight of the Year candidate.

Hopefully Marquez will get another big fight, perhaps against Joan Guzman or heck I wouldn't mind seeing a rematch with Diaz.

With his win on Saturday, now fans of Mexican fighters should put Marquez up there with the greats. He's certainly become a hero in native country and should be treated as such.

- Felix

Sunday, March 1, 2009

Basketball pairings, preps, NM

High School Basketball
State Playoffs
First Round
Boys
Class 5A
All Games Saturday
No. 16 Cibola at No. 1 Manzano
No. 15 Santa Fe at No. 2 Gallup
No. 14 Sandia at No. 3 Highland
No. 13 Rio Rancho at No. 4 La Cueva
No. 12 Alamogordo at No. 5 Clovis
No. 11 Onate at No. 6 Valley
No. 10 Rio Grande at No. 7 Las Cruces High
No. 9 Eldorado at No. 8 Hobbs

Class 4A
No. 16 Santa Teresa at No. 1 Espanola Valley
No. 15 Roswell Goddard at No. 2 Deming
No. 14 Del Norte at No. 3 Roswell
No. 13 Silver at No. 4 Artesia
No. 5 Los Alamos at No. 12 Farmington
No. 11 Grants at No. 6 Albuquerque Academy
No. 10 Capital at No. 7 Belen
No. 9 Bernalillo at No. 8 St. Pius

Class 3A
No. 16 Dexter at No. 1 Hope Christian
No. 15 Newcomb at No. 2 St. Mike’s
No. 14 Crownpoint at No. 3 Portales
No. 13 Hatch Valley at No. 4 Sandia Prep
No. 12 W. Las Vegas at No. 5 Wingate
No. 6 Bloomfield at No. 11 Socorro
No. 10 Ruidoso at No. 7 Pojoaque
No. 9 Santa Fe Indian at No. 8 Lovington

Class 2A
Escalante at Rehoboth
Navajo Pine at Coronado
Mora at Mesa Vista
Penasco at Pecos
Estancia at Mesilla Valley
Jal at Santa Rosa
Texico at Hagerman
Tularosa at Bosque School

Class A
Santa Fe Waldorf at Springer
Des Moines at Evangel Christian
Clovis Christian at Dora
Fort Sumner at Logan
Valley Christian Academy at Cliff
Mountainair at Temple Baptist
Gallup Catholic at Carrizozo
Reerve at Tatum

Girls
Class 5A
All Game Friday
No. 16 Manzano at No. 1 Rio Rancho
No. 15 Carlsbad at No. 2 Eldorado
No. 14 West Mesa at No. 3 Clovis
No. 13 Gallup at No. 4 Mayfield
No. 12 Hobbs at No. 5 La Cueva
No. 11 Cibola at No. 6 Las Cruces High
No. 10 Rio Grande at No. 7 Sandia
No. 9 Valley at No. 8 Alamogordo

Class 4A
No. 16 Silver at No. 1 St. Pius
No. 15 Volcano Vista at No. 2 Roswell
No. 14 Grants at No. 3 Moriarty
No. 13 Los Alamos at No. 4 Kirtland Central
No. 12 Aztec at No. 5 Deming
No. 11 Albuquerque Academy at No. 6 Shiprock
No. 10 Espanola Valley at No. 7 Belen
No. 9 Artesia at No. 8 Del Norte

Class 3A Girls
No. 16 Wingate at No. 1 Pojoaque
No. 15 Hatch Valley at No. 2 Portales
No. 14 Miyamura at No. 3 Lovington
No. 13 Thoreau at No. 4 St. Mike’s
No. 12 St. Mike’s at No. 5 Hope Christian
No. 11 Robertson at No. 6 Crownpoint
No. 10 Ruidoso at No. 7 W. Las Vegas
No. 9 Tohatchi at No. 8 Socorro

Class 2A Girls
Coronado at Navajo Pine
Rehoboth at Navajo Prep
Pecos at Penasco
McCurdy at Mora
Jemez Valley at Lordsburg
Eunice at Santa Rosa
Texico at Jal
Tularosa at Estancia

Class A Girls
Evangel Christian at Cimarron
Des Moines at Desert Academy
Grady at Fort Sumner
Elida at Melrose
Tatum at Cliff
Carrizozo at Gallup Catholic
Magdalena at Hondo
Animas at Valley Christian Academy

All-District Boys, 3-5A

District 3-5A boys basketball team
Honorable Mention
Tim Jacobs, Onate
Terrel de Rouen, Las Cruces High
Josh Trujillo, Mayfield
Tyler Josselyn, Alamogordo
Ben Gaston, Alamogordo
Charles Chavez, Las Cruces High
Jason Trujillo, Alamogordo
Luis Zavala, Gadsden
Isaac Bonnett, Onate
Ajejandro Briseno, Las Cruces High

First Team
Lucio Luttrell, Las Cruces High
Nathan Abeyta-Robles, Mayfield
Dante Caro, Las Cruces High
Steve Melendrez, Onate
Victor Ray Martinez, Gadsden
Mario Medrano, Gadsden
Marcus Oakley, Alamogordo
Jeremiah Willis, Mayfield
Alex Wright, Onate
Fabian Vigil, Las Cruces High
Matt Schalk, Alamogordo
Jared Bielcik, Onate

Player of the Year
Travis Geiger, Alamogordo

Coach of the Year
Mike Smith, Las Cruces High