The Wildcats picked up two critical wins recently, moving them higher in the 1A power rankings with just two weeks left in the regular season.
Hosting the Basis School from Flagstaff Jan. 17, Joseph City prevailed 75-63.
Matt Fields enjoyed the day, going for 28 points and 11 rebounds. Latrelle Kinlicheenie and Aaron Johnstun added 13 each; KJ Kinlicheenie, 7; Carlos Sanchez, 6; Bryndon Buckley, 5; Troy Poudrier, 2; and Jacob Bushman, 1.
The Cats hit 25 percent of their three-point shots and made 11 of 19 free throws in the win.
Playing at Mogollon two nights later, the Wildcats fell behind at the close of the first period, but came back to lead 36-35 at the half. In the third period they outscored the Mustangs by five, then closed out the game with a 16-point fourth period to defeat their rivals, 67-58.
Fields lit up the scoreboard for 29 points and pulled down 15 rebounds. Johnstun also had a double double with 10 points and 11 rebounds. Buckley netted 10 as well. Latrelle Kinlicheenie added 7; Poudrier, 5; and Sanchez and KJ Kinlicheenie, 3 each.
The Wildcats made 9 of 18 free throws and hit four of their 17 three-point attempts.
With the win Joseph City improved to 10-3 overall and was in the midst of a five game winning streak. The Wildcats entered last week ranked 13th in power points and needs to remain in the top 16 to reach the post-season.
