Lady Steers start 2022 with big win

Junior Gerleanzy Ganadronegro defending her home court line during Magdalena’s win.
Greg Byrd | El Defensor Chieftain

A big win was in store for the Lady Steers to start off 2022. The visiting Carrizozo Grizzlies came to town on Jan. 4 and could not match up against Magdalena. A 30-plus point victory, 58-23, places the Lady Steers at 7-5 with an undefeated district record.

“Magdalena has definitely improved since the last time we saw them,” Grizzlies head coach Brittney Lamay said. “We came out complacent just thinking we were going to beat that team. That wasn’t the case. All I try to do is instill the positives I see on the court.”

Carrizozo struggled to find positives from the start of the game. Sophomore Kambree Montoya and senior Jasmine Apachito were hitting key shots for Magdalena, leading to a 24-8 first half home-team lead.

The Lady Mountaineers did not give up. Led by Reserve senior Hailey Baca, the visiting team made it a game. Her 23 points topped the night individually for both teams.

Lady Steers Head Coach Sara Sue Olney was impressed with her team’s performance going into the new year.

“I knew we’ve learned how to win big,” Olney said. “I knew we could and want to win big. I knew in the fourth quarter when the other was coming back as long as we kept our composure we would be fine. Our girls are just trying to buy in on the idea of work ethic.”

7-4 puts Magdalena in second place in the Class A Standings behind the Melrose Lady Buffaloes. After a non-district tournament, the team will next host a home game against Quemado on Jan. 18.

NM Class A Standings:

Melrose; 7-4.

Magdalena; 7-5.

Saint Johns; 3-3.