Hoopin’ it up in Valencia County

The push to win a district basketball championship started this week across New Mexico, with five of the six Valencia County teams jumping into the fray Tuesday with some dramatic finishes.

In boys’ action, Valencia (10-8, 0-1), pictured, started at home with a 69-66 loss to Grants (13-6, 1-0.) Diego Baeza tied it for VHS with nine seconds left but the Pirates hit a three-pointer at the buzzer to win.

Belen (7-11, 0-1) hosted St. Pius (9-8, 1-0), with the Eagles losing 60-56 in overtime. Jasode Harris led BHS with 20 points.

Jalin Holland led Los Lunas (10-7, 1-0) past Manzano (4-12, 0-1) 69-40 with 28 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists.

In girls’ action, Belen (6-10, 0-1) traveled to second-ranked St. Pius (14-3, 1-0), losing 62-27. Jada Wright led the Eagles with eight points.

VHS (11-7, 1-0) played at Grants (3-15, 0-1), dominating the Pirates 55-22.

On Wednesday, Los Lunas (10-7, 1-0) was at Manzano (4-11, 0-1), defeating the Monarchs 64-30 for the Tigers third straight victory.