Belen Eagle girls ready to take the next step on court

Belen

For a team coming off a season with a 1-25 record, there is more optimism than you might expect in the Belen Eagles girls’ basketball program.

The reasons? The district Player of the Year returns, a renewed commitment to winning and a new coach.

Sam Gavaldon comes to Belen after six years as coach at Cottonwood Classical in Albuquerque.

“I did some scouting before I applied for the job,” Gavaldon said. “I saw the youth; I saw some things that we can build on.”

That includes Maesyn Lopez, a senior center, who was the top player in District 5-4A, averaging about 12 points and 8 rebounds per game. Lopez says there is a new mindset this season.

“Good things are happening,” Lopez said. “We have good energy and athleticism.”

Coach Gavaldon says Lopez will be asked to carry much of the load.

“I like the pressure, leading the team,” Lopez said.

Most teams are optimistic this time of year, but there is some tangible evidence that the Eagles are improved. BHS went 3-0-1 in a series of scrimmages at Shiprock earlier in November.

“My plan is to outwork every team on the court,” Gavaldon said, adding that the Eagles’ have the ability and the “edginess” to succeed.

Gavaldon believes the players are “ready for something new, ready to build a foundation for the future.” He felt the excitement on the day he was hired. “My phone rang off the hook.”

The Eagles opened the season Tuesday with a 44-26 victory over East Mountain, matching their win total from last season. Following a tournament in Hatch, Belen will host the Hub City Tournament Dec. 8-10.