Las Cruces boys avoid upset in semifinals; Rio Rancho Cleveland up next for state title

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico - The Las Cruces Bulldawgs had to fight and claw their way back into their game against Roswell Thursday night.

In the end, the Bulldawgs avoided the upset as they took down the Coyotes in the semifinals of the 5A boys state basketball playoffs.

The final score was 68-64.

The defending state champions from a season ago have now earned the right to defend their state title when they face Rio Rancho Cleveland for the state championship.

Rio Rancho Cleveland won their semifinal game Thursday against Atrisco Heritage Academy, 58-54.

Saturday's state championship game is scheduled to tipoff at 6:30 p.m. at the Pit in Albuquerque.