Elkettes claim AAA state title over St. Michael's 46-39

| The New Mexican

3/14/2008 - 3/14/08

The Pojoaque Elkettes claimed their second state title and first since 1998 with a 46-39 victory over St. Michael's. It wasn't the prettiest of games, but in the end, Pojoaque's aggressive defense was too much for St. Michael's to handle.

Andrea Cruz led the Elkettes with 15 points, while Janelle Roybal and Dionna Montoya added 14 and 10 each. Kayla Herrera and Marissa Peterson each had 11 to lead St. Michael's.

The loss capped a tough day for St. Michael's sports. West Las Vegas defeated the St. Michael's boys earlier today 56-48, ending the Horsemen's two-year reign as state champions. West Las Vegas will face Pojoaque Valley in the Class AAA boys championship game Saturday at The Pit.

Pojoaque Valley won its semifinal match Friday morning over Sandia Prep 58-51 to earn its way into then title game.

In other action, Penasco lost its semifinal match to Texico 58-51. Reports from the game are available at the tournament blog.

The state basketball championships end tomorrow. A collection of photo slideshow from games featuring teams from Northern New Mexico is available by visiting www.santafenewmexican.com/hoops/ .