Mayfield and Las Cruces have tall, athletic teams that could be ready for playoff runs. Forward Mike Abernathy paces a deep Trojans squad, while forward Ashton Butler is averaging 22 points and 10 rebounds a game for the Bulldawgs this season. Hobbs has made believers around the state by winning two straight Class AAAA championships. Clovis, which battled Hobbs to the wire in district last season, has three top starters back. Standout guard Anthony Fuller leads Manzano, which seeks a second straight state appearance.
Eldorado has a smart, veteran team and plenty of perimeter firepower.
Carlsbad looks to improve on a 16-10 season and could have the talent to do it.