Rattlers, Lady Rattlers prepare for Loving Falcons

Rattler Zedric Henderson-Greene goes up for the layup during Monday’s practice at the Snake Pit. The Rattlers will host Loving Saturday night in a non district match up.

Staff Report

The Tucumcari Lady Rattlers took first place Saturday in the Estancia Basketball Tournament with a 55-38 win over Mountainair in the championship game.

“This is a great confidence booster for the team,” said Gary Hittson, Lady Rattlers head coach.

The Lady Rattlers, 9-3, had five team members recognized for their play in the tournament. Melissa Gardea was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player and Alyssa Martinez, Kalani French, Maribel Lopez and Ashley Shipley were named All tournament.

Hittson said along with winning the championship the Lady Rattlers had a solid 52-47 win against over district opponent the Santa Rosa Lady Lions.

“The girls kept fighting and did not give up,” Hittson said.

Hittson said the Lady Rattlers fought back despite trailing most of the game and staved off the Lady Lions for the win.

“This team continues to show improvement each week and are playing with confidence,” Hittson said.

The Lady Rattlers play Saturday against the 9-0 Loving Lady Falcons at the Snake Pit.

Game Time: 4:30 Saturday at the Snake Pit.

The Tucumcari Rattlers, 7-4, routed Santa Fe Prep 76-41 Saturday at Santa Fe and now prepare to take on the 5-3 Loving Falcons this weekend at the Snake Pit.

Against Santa Fe Prep, Rattlers John Paul Garcia led the offense with 26 points, Daniel Lopez had 16 points and Saul Ramos had 11 points.

Game time: 6 p.m., Saturday at the Snake Pit.