Community Champions: Burges has eyes set on return to the Sweet 16

The Burges Mustangs have been waiting nearly a year for another shot in the Sweet 16.

Last season, the Mustangs made it all the way to the regional semifinal game and held a double-digit lead over Fort Worth Dunbar. But Dunbar erased that gap and went on to beat the Mustangs, ending their season.

As tough as that experience was, it’s helped the returning players grow.

“Last year was a great season,” said head coach Paul Gutierrez. “We had a great group of kids. It was the first time we’ve ever been to the Sweet 16. And that experience has helped us in how to play against really tough opponents.”

Burges is now just one win away from a return trip to the Sweet 16.

All that’s standing in their way is an Amarillo High team that just knocked off Bowie in the last round.

“It’s a lot of pressure, but we’ll be fine,” said sophomore Tristen Newton. “Just go out there and play like we usually do and we’ll be fine. We’re not making too big of a deal out of it. We’re just calm.”

Newton dropped 51 points in the last game the Mustangs played, an 80-66 victory over Lubbock Coronado.

The Mustangs could certainly use a similar performance by Newton in their matchup with Amarillo.

“He hit a couple of threes and you don’t know what’s gonna happen,” said Gutierrez. “He hit his threes early on, then he attacked the rim. He was just playing out of his mind this past Friday.”

Burges will also need big performances from Tristen’s brother, Jawaun, and sharpshooter Deion Bauman, both of whom are capable of lighting up the scoreboard.

Andress, Americas, and Anthony are also seeking spots in the Sweet 16.

All four teams play Tuesday night outside El Paso.