It’s always a sad or happy occasion for fans following the state tournament results in Albuquerque.
The sad news came yesterday (today is Thursday, Mar. 10 as this story is written) when the Bengal boys lost to neighboring Grants, 59-39, to end their season. The Gallup and Tohatchi girls’ teams continue to advance to brighten up the day.
The Bengal Ladies handled St. Pius easily, 64-37, and then squeaked past Piedra Vista, 66-63 while the Tohatchi Ladies disposed of Dulce, 70-46, and Laguna Acoma, 52-45. Now the competition gets tougher for both as Gallup faces #4 Espanola Valley and Tohatchi goes against #1 Texico in their attempts to play in the Championship game.
Coaches will tell you the most important win of the season is that last game, for the title. Even a perfect season record means little or nothing in comparison to bringing the Blue Trophy home.
Of course, coaches on the other side are thinking the same thing and inspiring their players to have a game above their normal ability. That is what keeps the State Tournament interesting, year after year.
So let’s all send a little hope and love to our representatives on the hardwood as they prepare for the next game. Sorry I won’t see you in the bleachers for those games, but I’ll be following the action here at home.
By Tom Hartsock
Sun Correspondent