Storm holds off Clovis boys

RIO RANCHO — The Clovis Wildcats showed plenty of promise as they proved they could hang with the No. 1 team in Class 5A Friday night.

However, they’re not quite at the level yet where they’re going to score an upset over Cleveland. The host Storm held on to take an 80-73 victory, knocking the Wildcats to 1-1 early on the season.

Clovis, which took on La Cueva Saturday after press time, got a game-high 18 points from senior guard Jacob Moon.

Cleveland (2-0), however, had a little bit better balance. Aamer Muhammed scored 17 points to lead four in double figures, and two others notched at least seven points. Nathan Hasberry added 15, while Jalen Munn had 14 and Nakqi Smith 13.

Clovis coach Jaden Isler said the game was one where you could look at both ends of the spectrum.

“We have 25 turnovers, and we miss seven free throws,” Isler said. “You can’t do those two things and expect you’ll be able to beat a team like Cleveland. But on the other hand, you’re excited because that shows you can compete.”

Ro Morgan added 15, while Bryce Cabeldue had 12 for the Wildcats, who are heading right back to Albuquerque next week for the Albuquerque Academy Tournament. They’re facing Hope Christian in a first round game where the winner might be the favorite to take the tournament.

“We’ve got to get better, no doubt,” Isler said, “but you can see some silver linings.”

Tuesday — The Wildcats took control against the Eagles with a 14-6 third quarter, and 11 players scored for Clovis.

Anthony Gutierrez had 12 to lead Clovis, while Moon scored 11. Nobody else was in double figures, but Josiah Lombrana had eight and Cabeldue six for Clovis.

Nobody reached double figures for the Eagles. Reese Seideman and Nathan Hoggatt tied for team high with nine points each.