Los Fresnos News

Despite pandemic, new era, Falcons remain the team to beat in 32-6A

Photo by Andrew Cordero

BY KEVIN NARRO

LOS FRESNOS – With last year’s Sweet 16 run, Los Fresnos basketball had finally broke that third-round hump and reached the regional tournament for the first time in program history.


While many of the household names have graduated, the 2020-21 season was going to provide its issues with having to replace four starters from last season.


Along with the retooling came COVID-19, the pandemic has caused many issues from a shortened offseason to limited games and workouts. At this time last year, Los Fresnos was (22-2, 1-0) and were off to a 21-0 start.

Flash forward a year later, the Falcons are (17-1, 6-0) – all despite new faces and facing the adversity of COVID-19.


“We are 6-0 in district, but we are not satisfied,” Los Fresnos head coach Marco Hinojosa said. “We know there is a lot of basketball to be played. Even though (COVID-19) hit, the kids started to play as soon as they were allowed.”


Over the offseason, the Falcons remained focused and kept in shape.
“They attended several tournaments here in the Valley and went to a few showcases in San Antonio,” Hinojosa said. “The guys know what it takes.”


Los Fresnos is averaging 68 points per game this year and are fueled by sophomore Gerry Martinez, who was named District 32-6A Most Valuable Player as a freshman. Martinez is currently averaging 20 points per game, which is a team high.

“I have guys who are committed,” Hinojosa said. “They know what it takes, and the guys know what we expect, and it really helps when you have the reigning MVP of the district back.”