Entering the final two games of its Intermountain League schedule with a chance to lock down at least a share of the league title, the Montezuma-Cortez High School boys basketball team stumbled.
The Panthers’ difficulties began on the road against Centauri on Feb. 8, when, after a competitive first half, M-CHS struggled throughout the final 16 minutes and lost, 70-41. The game was tied 13-13 at the end of the first quarter, and the Panthers trailed 31-25 at halftime.
Senior Cordell Baer led the Panthers offensively with 14 points and 12 rebounds and junior Adrian Mark chipped in 11 points for M-CHS. Star junior Teagan Whiteskunk was held to a season-low five points and attempted just seven field goals in the contest.
Freshman Baron Holman led Centauri in scoring with 18 points, and freshman Mason Claunch chipped in 10 points for the Falcons. The win improved Centauri’s record to 16-3 overall and 8-2 in the Intermountain League.
One day after losing to Centauri, M-CHS traveled to Monte Vista and suffered a crushing 63-62 loss. Whiteskunk led the Panthers in scoring with 18 points and senior Jens Jorgensen chipped in 12 points for M-CHS.
M-CHS’ loss to Monte Vista was especially disappointing given that the Panthers defeated the Pirates 72-63 earlier this season.
With its record now at 13-5 overall and 5-5 in the Intermountain League, M-CHS will prepare for its final regular-season game of the season, which will take place against Dolores Huerta Prep in Pueblo on Feb. 16.