Valencia County teams split district openers as girls shine

Valencia County’s high school basketball season opened with a clear highlight: the county’s girls programs dominated on the road while the boys posted a pair of home victories and one narrow loss.

Los Lunas girls, ranked No. 6, continued the momentum they built by winning the Hope Tournament, improving to 17-2 overall and 1-0 in District 5-5A with a 67-21 victory at West Mesa. Valencia girls, also sixth-ranked in their classification, moved to 13-5 and 1-0 in District 5-4A with a 60-39 road win at Grants. Belen’s girls struggled in District 5-4A, falling 65-36 at St. Pius.

On the boys side, Valencia High School (VHS) posted a 63-50 home victory over Grants to open District 5-4A play at 12-6 and 1-0. Belen High School (BHS) edged St. Pius 61-58, with Daniel Aguilar, No. 10, featured in game action for the Eagles in their narrow win; Belen improved to 11-8 and 1-0. Los Lunas High School (LLHS) came within three points of a comeback but fell 46-43 at West Mesa, leaving the Hawks 6-13 and 0-1 in District 5-5A.

These results matter beyond the stat lines. Early district wins set the tone for seeding and playoff implications as teams move into the heart of January and February schedules. For local families and boosters, the girls teams’ road success signals stronger community representation at regional tournaments and may increase turnout at future away and home contests. The scheduling note that county boys were at home while girls played on the road underscores practical challenges for families juggling transportation and work schedules; those logistics influence who can attend games and support student-athletes in person.

High school sports in Valencia County also play a role in youth health and community cohesion. Strong programs encourage physical activity, provide structure for teens, and offer social supports that can improve mental health and academic engagement. Investment in equitable resources - from travel funding to coaching and gym access - helps ensure both boys and girls have the same opportunities to compete and to reap those benefits.

Tuesday’s split opens a critical phase of district play. Los Lunas girls carry momentum from the Hope Tournament into their district slate, while VHS and BHS have early advantages in 5-4A. For local fans and families, these outcomes shape which matchups will draw the biggest crowds and community attention in the weeks ahead as teams chase district titles and postseason berths.