NMAA Boys 4A Basketball Quarterfinal Valley vs Artesia

Bulldogs outlast vikings

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#2 Artesia Bulldogs Edge #7 Valley Vikings in Defensive Battle, 41-37
March 12, 2025 – The Pit, Albuquerque, NM

The #2 Artesia Bulldogs survived a defensive showdown in the 2025 NMAA State Basketball Championship quarterfinals, holding off the #7 Valley Vikings for a 41-37 victory at The Pit in Albuquerque.

Game Recap:

The contest was a grind-it-out affair, with both teams struggling offensively but making up for it with tenacious defense. Artesia controlled most of the game, leading for 31 minutes and 5 seconds, while Valley was never able to claim a lead.

The Bulldogs jumped out to an 8-point advantage in the first half with a spark from Charlie Campbell. However, Valley clawed its way back into the game, fueled by timely three-point shooting and forced turnovers.

In the fourth quarter, Artesia’s Clay Kincaid came up big, finishing with 13 points and 6 rebounds, including key free throws in the final minutes to keep Valley at bay. Trent Egeland added 11 points and 8 rebounds, providing a strong presence in the paint.

For Valley, Luciano Mondragon and Angelito Villa led the way with 14 points each. Despite their late push, the Vikings struggled with efficiency, shooting 32.4% from the field.

Key Stats:

Biggest Lead: Artesia by 11 (2nd quarter, 5:37)
Shooting Percentages:
- Artesia: 52.9% FG, 20.0% 3PT, 40.0% FT
- Valley: 32.4% FG, 31.6% 3PT, 75.0% FT
Rebounds: Artesia 30, Valley 12
Points in the Paint: Artesia 26, Valley 10

Turning Point:

Late in the fourth quarter, Valley cut the deficit to just three points, but Artesia’s defense locked down in the closing minutes. A pair of critical free throws from Kincaid and a defensive stop sealed the victory for the Bulldogs.

Next Up:

With the win, Artesia advances to the Class 4A semifinals, continuing their championship pursuit. Valley’s season comes to an end after a hard-fought battle against one of the state’s top teams.

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