Albuquerque High and Hobbs

Hobbs High School and Albuquerque High have played some of the best games in New Mexico State high school basketball history.

On Wednesday afternoon in Albuquerque, the two renewed their rivalry in the 5A quarterfinals. Hobbs won 75-68, but it wasn't easy. The No. 2 Eagles had to hit some free throws late to beat the No. 10 Bulldogs and advance to Thursday night's semifinals against either Mayfield or Gallup.

Hobbs has been very good in recent years and this year is no different. But AHS has struggled since winning the state title in Class 4A in 1998.

But AHS had a resurgent season under head coach Ron Garcia. The team won 19 games and on Wednesday led 18-16 after one quarter and trailed just 31-26 at the half.

Guard Emilio Andrade led AHS with an impressive showing on the perimeter. He hit 8 of 16 from the field, scored 24 points and dished out three assists. The Bulldogs also forced 21 Hobbs turnovers.

But Hobbs was too much. Forward Jeff Taylor, who is being courted by several Division I scouts, had 26 points and 12 rebounds, while guard Allen Tate was very impressive with 19 points on 7 of 14 shooting and five rebounds.

- Felix