The Toppers celebrate a late 3pt basket by Danae Rodriguez. Photo by Nate Limback/ladailypost.com

Faith Archuleta drives the ball over half court in the first quarter. Photo by Nate Limback/ladailypost.com

Hilltopper Head Coach Mike Kluk strategizes with the team during a late game timeout in the 4th quarter. Photo by Nate Limback/ladailypost.com

SPORTS News:

The Los Alamos High School Hilltopper girls varsity basketball team hosted the Española Lady Sundevils Tuesday night at Griffith Gymnasium. The long-standing rivalry lived up to the hype, with both teams giving it their all for four quarters.

The Sundevils jumped out to an early lead in the first quarter, but the Toppers were quick to respond.

The fast-paced game saw the lead change hands multiple times.

The matchup came down to the final moments, with 16 seconds left in the fourth quarter. The Toppers had two opportunities, including a pair of three-point attempts to tie the game, but the Sundevils’ defense proved too strong.

The game ended with a 45-42 Sundevils victory at the buzzer.

Danae Rodriguez leads a late game rally and drives the lane for a 2pt layup. Photo by Nate Limback/ladailypost.com

Kohynn Young closely guards Olivia Martinez under the Sundevils’ goal in the 1st quarter. Photo by John McHale/ladailypost.com

Javaya Davidson gets a shot off despite heavy coverage by the Sundevils defense in the 1st quarter. She scored 10 points for the night. Photo by John McHale/ladailypost.com

Toppers’ & Sundevils’ cheer teams pose for a photo before the game. Photo by John McHale/ladailypost.com