Basketball Recap: Merlynn Denezpi's Big Game Can't Quite Lead Red Mesa over Ash Fork

Red Mesa was the 49-43 winner over Ash Fork when they last played one another back in December of 2024, but their luck changed this time around. The Red Mesa Redskins fell to the Ash Fork Spartans 48-42. The Redskins have now taken an 'L' in back-to-back games.

Red Mesa's loss came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Merlynn Denezpi, who posted 23 points and three steals. That's the most steals Denezpi has posted since back in December of 2023. The team also got some help courtesy of Shyla Pipkin, who put up four points along with eight rebounds and three steals.

Even though they lost, Red Mesa smashed the offensive glass and finished the game with 17 offensive rebounds. That strong performance was nothing new for the team: they've now pulled down at least 11 offensive boards in six consecutive matches.

Ash Fork was led to victory by Gracie Staples and Isabella Acosta. Staples dropped a double-double on 12 points and 14 boards, while Acosta scored 13 points in addition to seven rebounds and six steals. Acosta is crushing it when it comes to steals: she's grabbed at least three every time she's taken the court this season. Another player making a difference was Crystal Nixon, who had eight points along with six boards and three steals.

Red Mesa now has a losing record at 12-13. As for Ash Fork, the victory made it two in a row for them and bumps their season record up to 14-8.

Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Red Mesa will welcome Ganado at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday. As for Ash Fork, they will look to defend their home court on Tuesday against Rough Rock at 4:00 p.m.