Texico ends season on loss

RIO RANCHO — Ramona Fossum scored 17 points, and Mescalero Apache upset top-seeded Texico 47-46 Tuesday in the state 2A quarterfinals at the Santa Ana Star Center.

Fallon Velasquez added 14 and the go-ahead free throws for the Chiefs (23-7), who move on to a 6:30 p.m. Thursday semifinal against either Pecos or Lordsburg.

Texico, which outscored Mescalero 21-11 in a furious fourth-quarter comeback, ends its season at 23-5.

“They really didn’t do anything to us that should have caused us trouble,” Texico coach Richard Luscombe said. “The biggest issue was our mental breakdowns.”

Texico shot 14-of-45 from the field and 14-of-23 from the free-throw line on the day. The Wolverines were led by Baylee Sours’ 22 points, but Jasmine Davalos (12 points, 4-of-9 shooting) was the only other Texico player to notch more than five.

Luscombe felt the state tournament proved a difficult atmosphere. Even though the Wolverines were the reigning Class 3A champ, much of that team graduated.

“Jasmine and Baylee were the only ones with veteran state tournament experience. When we lost Riley (Thompson to injury earlier in the season) as well, it was tough. We have kids normally averaging double figures who (didn’t score much today).”

Also add to the equation that the reduction from six to five classifications meant Texico saw a much-stronger No. 8 seed than in years past.

“They’re definitely a good team. They’re able to do some things that can cause you trouble if you don’t get defensive rotations, get on the floor for loose balls.”