Window Rock edges Pueblo

CHINLE

The Window Rock Scouts battled back from a three-point deficit to post a 42-41 victory over the Tucson Pueblo Magnet Warriors in Arizona’s Sweet 16 at Chinle Wildcat Den last Friday.

The Scouts advance to the Elite 8 and face the Scottsdale Christian Eagles, today at 12 p.m. at Gila River Arena in Glendale. Scottsdale Christian eliminated Tuba City, 56-33, in the Sweet 16.

“It is a great win,” said Window Rock head coach Raul Mendoza. “The guys came together and played hard. The guys didn’t want to end their season early in the state tournament. Pueblo is a strong and talented team.”

Pueblo’s Robert Taylor canned one of two free throws with 2:14 remaining in the fourth quarter, giving the Warriors a 41-38 lead.

The Scouts patiently worked the ball, before Koeby Emerson knocked down a basket, bringing Window Rock within one point, 41-40, with 1:35 left. The Scouts patiently worked the ball, looking for a good shot. With 31.6 seconds remaining, Window Rock’s Tyrese Brown was fouled.

He promptly canned two free throws, lifting Window Rock to a 42-41 lead.

The Warriors committed a turnover with 18 seconds left. The Scouts turned the ball over five seconds later. Pueblo turned the ball over with 3.4 seconds. The Scouts called a timeout. When play resumed, the Scouts ran out the clock.

“Within the last two minutes they committed turnovers and we committed turnovers,” Mendoza said. “We are fortunate to pull off a victory.”

Mendoza said Emerson hit a key basket and Brown made two crucial free throws. He cited Myron Wauneka for his rebounding effort and Shammond Goodman for his shooting performance.

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