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Santa Fe Today
By the People, for the People
Matadors Secure Second Place in District with 59-44 Win Over Demons
Sandia Matadors overpower Santa Fe High Demons to claim second place in District 2-5A
Published on Feb. 4, 2026
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The Sandia Matadors defeated the Santa Fe High Demons 59-44 on Tuesday night, securing second place in District 2-5A and creating a three-way tie for first place with the Demons and Albuquerque La Cueva. The Matadors played without key players George Smith and Gad Harris but demonstrated a relentless pace that proved too much for the Demons to handle.
Why it matters
The Matadors' victory is significant as it solidifies their position in the district standings and sets up an exciting three-way race for the top spot. The team's ability to overcome key player absences and maintain their high-intensity style of play showcases their resilience and coaching staff's effective game planning.
The details
The Matadors' victory was fueled by their constant motion and focus on driving to the basket, with only one of their 12 second-half baskets being a three-pointer. This strategy wore down the Demons, who struggled to keep up with Sandia's pace. The Matadors' pressure defense and the strong performance of Thomas Adams, who scored 28 points in a previous victory over Santa Fe High, were also instrumental in the win.
- The Matadors defeated the Demons 59-44 on Tuesday night.
- On February 5, 2025, the Matadors defeated the Demons 83-60, creating the three-way tie for first place.
- On January 30, 2026, the Seguin Matadors secured a 61-51 victory over San Antonio Jefferson.
The players
George Smith
A sophomore player for the Sandia Matadors who was sidelined with a sprained ankle.
Gad Harris
A sophomore player for the Sandia Matadors who suffered a spiral fracture in his left leg.
Mateo Hogan
A junior post player for the Sandia Matadors.
Thomas Adams
A player for the Sandia Matadors who scored 28 points in a previous victory over Santa Fe High.
Noah King
A sophomore player who led the Seguin Matadors with 17 points in their 61-51 victory over San Antonio Jefferson.
What they’re saying
“We run every morning, every time we get on the court. Every drill, we're doing full speed. It's what coach Brown emphasizes every day, and we're buying into what he's teaching us.”
— Mateo Hogan, junior post (newsdirectory3.com)
“Our guys really do have a high basketball IQ and they're experienced. Especially Thomas.”
— Danny Brown, Head coach (newsdirectory3.com)
“That's part of our game plan, especially in early offense and transition. We try to put pressure on the defense, create some driving lanes, and get our corner shooters in space so the defense has to pick, and choose.”
— Guy Nowlin, Seguin head coach (newsdirectory3.com)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.
