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Girls’ basketball
In a showdown Thursday between two of the top teams in 4A basketball, number two Kirtland Central pulled away from third ranked Valencia to post a 56-48 victory at the VHS gym.
A three pointer by Iza Zamora from the corner at the buzzer to end the third quarter pulled VHS (7-4) to within 42-40 against the defending state champions. However, relentless pressure by the Broncos (7-1) in the final quarter often kept the Jaguars from getting into their offense.
Jadyn Montoya led Valencia with 14 points. Jaiden Montgomery added a double-double for the Jaguars with eleven points and ten rebounds.
In 5A Friday, fifth ranked Los Lunas visits number two Hobbs. Both entered the game with identical 6-1 records.
Boys’ basketball
Albuquerque Academy (5-5) handled Belen Thursday 49-35. The Eagles (4-5) will next take the court December 26 in the Stu Clark Invitational in Las Vegas. Because of some unusual scheduling, Belen will face district rival and county foe Valencia in their first game. The meeting will not count as a district game.
Also Thursday, Los Lunas (3-7) lost at second ranked Sandia (7-1) 77-57.
Valencia (5-4) hosts Espanola (6-1) at 2 p.m., Saturday.
