ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The Santa Fe Indian School Lady Braves claimed the 2026 Nusenda Credit Union Class 3A Girls New Mexico State Championship with a 43–35 victory over the Navajo Prep Lady Eagles at The Pit in Albuquerque, N.M.
The championship matchup featured a competitive and defensive battle between two strong programs. Navajo Prep opened the game with early momentum, scoring first and establishing a strong defensive presence to take a 10–8 lead at the end of the first quarter. Both teams traded baskets and defensive stops throughout the opening period.
In the second quarter, SFIS began to find its rhythm offensively and edged ahead during a series of back-and-forth possessions. The Lady Braves took a narrow 17–15 lead into halftime, as both teams continued to contest every possession in what remained a low-scoring and tightly played game.
Coming out of halftime, SFIS extended its lead in the third quarter with timely scoring and defensive stops, finishing the quarter ahead 25–21. Navajo Prep continued to battle and stayed within striking distance heading into the final period.
The fourth quarter brought intense energy as Navajo Prep mounted a strong comeback, briefly taking the lead after a pair of three-point shots. The teams exchanged baskets as the crowd grew louder, with the game tied late in the quarter. In the final minutes, SFIS capitalized on key possessions and free throws to regain momentum and secure the 43–35 victory.
Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren congratulated the Santa Fe Indian School Lady Braves on their championship victory and recognized both teams for representing their communities with pride and determination.
“Congratulations to both teams for making it this far and especially to the Santa Fe Indian School Lady Braves on winning the 2026 Class 3A State Championship. Your teamwork, resilience, and dedication throughout the season led to a well-earned victory on one of the biggest stages in New Mexico high school basketball,” said President Nygren.
President Nygren also recognized the outstanding season of the Navajo Prep Lady Eagles, who finished with an impressive 26–3 overall record and a perfect 12–0 district record under the leadership of Head Coach Rainy Crisp.
“The Navajo Prep Lady Eagles showed tremendous heart, discipline, and competitiveness throughout the season. Reaching the state championship is a major accomplishment, and the Navajo Nation is proud of the effort and leadership displayed by the team and coaching staff. Congratulations on an amazing season.
