State High School Basketball Championships Draw Packed Crowds at The Pit

The energy remains high as fans support local athletes in the tournament's final games.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 1:35am

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The state high school basketball championships are nearing their end at The Pit in Albuquerque, New Mexico, with packed crowds enthusiastically supporting local teams. The 2A girls' championship saw Mesa Vista defeat Tatum 49-47, while the 3A title game featured a close battle between Navajo Prep and Santa Fe Indian School, with the Braves ultimately winning 43-35.

Why it matters

High school sports are a source of community pride and excitement, especially during championship tournaments. The packed crowds at The Pit demonstrate the passion and dedication of local fans supporting their teams and athletes.

The details

In the 2A girls' championship, Mesa Vista defeated Tatum 49-47. The 3A title game was a close battle, with Navajo Prep and Santa Fe Indian School going back and forth. Santa Fe Indian School maintained a tight lead, but Navajo Prep surged in the fourth quarter, hitting three quick three-pointers. Kamrya Goldtooth hit another three-pointer to cut the lead in half with 20 seconds left, but Santa Fe stayed focused, with Aaliyah Valencia stealing the ball and passing to Toni Riley, who scored and drew a foul. Santa Fe Indian School won the 3A girls state championship with a 43-35 victory.

  • The state high school basketball championships are nearing their end.
  • The 2A girls' championship wrapped with Mesa Vista winning against Tatum, 49-47.
  • The 3A title game featured Navajo Prep against Santa Fe Indian School.
  • Santa Fe Indian School won the 3A girls state championship with a 43-35 victory.
  • Later, Kirtland Central will face Gallup for the 4A girls title.

The players

Mesa Vista

The 2A girls' basketball team that defeated Tatum 49-47 in the championship game.

Tatum

The 2A girls' basketball team that lost to Mesa Vista 49-47 in the championship game.

Navajo Prep

The 3A girls' basketball team that faced off against Santa Fe Indian School in the title game.

Santa Fe Indian School

The 3A girls' basketball team that defeated Navajo Prep 43-35 in the championship game.

Kirtland Central

The 4A girls' basketball team that will face Gallup in the championship game.

Gallup

The 4A girls' basketball team that will face Kirtland Central in the championship game.

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The takeaway

The packed crowds at The Pit for the state high school basketball championships demonstrate the strong community support and enthusiasm for local sports teams and athletes. These tournaments are a source of pride and excitement, bringing together fans to cheer on their hometown heroes.