Jaguars handle Tigers in family hoop showdown

Los Lunas

It was daughter defeating dad in a girls’ basketball coaching duel Friday with Valencia downing Los Lunas, 28-14, on the Tigers’ home court.

Micaela Medina’s Jaguars got the better of the Tigers, coached by her father, David Medina, on a night when points were hard to come by.

With Medina relatives watching high above on the centerline so as not to show favoritism, the VHS pressure defense kept the LLHS offense from finding any rhythm, forcing numerous turnovers.

Los Lunas finally got on the board with 1:55 left in the second quarter on two free throws by Sadie Ortega.

Valencia led 10-3 at the half and expanded the lead in the third quarter.

Azalia Malizia, who caused several 10-second violations on defense, increased the Jags’ lead to double digits with a jumper. Malizia led all scorers with seven points.

Freshman Francesca Ortega had a strong fourth quarter on both ends for Valencia. Her basket and two free throws increased the advantage to 25-11, slamming the door on a potential Los Lunas rally.

“Our defense is getting better and better,” VHS coach Micaela Medina said. “We brought lots of energy.”

David Medina, in his first year at LLHS but with 24 years experience as a head coach, was philosophical.

“I’m the girls’ third coach in three years,” Medina said. “I give them credit. Learning the offense will take time.”

As for the family coaching rivalry, David simply said, “it was fun.”

Micaela is now 2-0 against her father.

“To beat any veteran coach shows we’re doing something right,” Micaela said, adding she learned everything about coaching from her dad. “He gets this victory, too.”

David would like to see Los Lunas and Valencia play more than once a year, citing the large, enthusiastic crowd and the short travel distance.

The Tigers are 0-4  after losing Tuesday’s game against Centennial, 55-13. 

The Jaguars are now 3-1 after beating Del Norte Tuesday 53-20.