Based on the performances turned in by several hoopsters at a local free throw competition, the future of prep basketball in Cortez appears to be bright.
Playing host to 24 competitors between the ages of 8 and 13, the annual Elks Hoop Shoot Competition at the Cortez Middle School gymnasium on Dec. 8, was a rousing success.
Securing first place in the age 8-9 girls division was Josie Fish, while Dorrian Hilliard shot his way to victory in the boys 8-9 division.
Makayla Long won the 10-11 girls’ division, and Tyrell Benally was the top 10-11 boy.
In the 12-13 girls division, Myra Simmons came out on top, and Teagan Whiteskunk emerged victorious in the 12-13 boys’ division.
With their first-place finishes, Fish, Hilliard, Long, Benally, Simmons and Whiteskunk advance to the district competition at Fort Lewis College on Feb. 9.
Featured in the District competition will be winners from Elks Hoop Shoots in Durango, Ouray, Telluride, Montrose, Delta, Hotchkiss and Grand Junction.
Winners at the District competition move on to the state competition.
In its 42nd year of competition, the Elks Hoop Shoots draw over 3 million boys and girls nationally.