Farmington, Volcano Vista Advance, Strong Opening Night Shows Depth

The Marv Sanders Memorial Invitational opened at Farmington High on December 12, 2025 with four boys games that clarified which teams will contend for the tournament title and which will need adjustments. Farmington beat Grand Junction 58 to 49 behind balanced scoring, Volcano Vista dominated Shiprock 73 to 33, Durango topped Window Rock 52 to 41 and Maryvale outpaced Canon City 56 to 44. The results set second round matchups that will test both depth and coaching adjustments.

Farmington’s win over Grand Junction was led by Sataurus Griego, who scored 16 points, and Keandre Black, who added 14. Farmington relied on timely scoring runs in the second half to pull away after a tight opening quarter. Grand Junction struggled to contain the ball in transition, and Farmington’s ability to convert turnovers into points proved decisive in the middle stages.

Durango leaned on junior Kingston Kerlin, who poured in 29 points to carry his team past Window Rock 52 to 41. Kerlin’s burst provided sustained pressure, forcing Window Rock into high percentage contested shots and limiting second chance opportunities. Durango’s defensive focus on limiting paint time paid dividends late in the game.

Maryvale’s 56 to 44 victory over Canon City reflected steady half court execution and rebounding that produced extra possessions. Volcano Vista’s 73 to 33 rout of Shiprock was the night’s most lopsided result. David Lunn and multiple teammates contributed to a dominant offensive display that turned into a running clock by the fourth quarter.

Coaches on several teams emphasized defensive adjustments and rotational changes after the opening games as they prepared for the bracket that narrows quickly in a two day event. The second round matchups were set for Friday and pair Grand Junction against Window Rock, Shiprock against Canon City, Volcano Vista against Maryvale, and Farmington against Durango.

For San Juan County the invitational remains an important local event, bringing visiting teams to Farmington High and offering area players high level competition. Early statistical leaders and in game adjustments from these opening contests will shape how coaches approach the remainder of the tournament and the balance of the winter season.