LA boys defend Indian Classic title against Red Mesa
By Sunnie Clahchischiligi
Navajo Times
RIO RANCHO, N.M., Jan. 9, 2014
(Times photos - Donovan Quintero)
TOP:
Laguna Acoma's Ryan Arkie (31) grabs the ball from Red Mesa's Ernesto Gonzales (31) on Saturday in Rio Rancho, N.M. The Hawks defeated the Redskins, 69-51, and won the 3rd annual New Mexico American Indian Classic's 2-4A bracket title.
BOTTOM PHOTO: Laguna Acoma's Elijah Ruben (4) quickly gets by a Redskin defender on Saturday during the 3rd annual New Mexico American Indian Classic championship game of the 2-4A bracket.
The Hawks met Arizona Division IV Section I Red Mesa, who was nearly a spitting image of the reigning 2A state champions during the 2-4A bracket championship game of the 3rd annual New Mexico American Indian Classic held Jan. 2-4 at the Santa Ana Star Center.
Laguna Acoma's record remains untarnished as they defeated the Redskins, 69-51, for their second consecutive title of the tournament.
While Laguna's victory was the focus most could not help but noticed how much of a fight Red Mesa (9-4) put up to give Laguna Acoma a run for their title.
Laguna Acoma head coach Ryan Peil said Red Mesa gave them a challenge they happily accepted.
"They were a tough team," Peil said. "They play similar style. They like to run and push the ball, they were a tough test."
To read how teams such as Navajo Pine, Navajo Prep Shiprock Northwest, Tse Yi Gai or Tohajiilee, pick up a copy of the Navajo Times or subscribe online.
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