NEW MEXICO HIGH SCHOOL BASKETBALL COACH DIES FROM COVID-19

The coronavirus has taken the life of Alamo Navajo boys basketball coach Marcus Pino.  The head coach died Thursday from medical complications as a result of COVID-19.

“We are terribly saddened to hear about the loss of Coach Pino,” said New Mexico Activities Association Executive Director Sally Marquez.  “Our thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family and community.  This deadly disease has unfortunately taken one of New Mexico’s dedicated coaches and caring individuals.”

“I don’t know if anyone could have accomplished what he did for Alamo Navajo boys basketball,” said close friend and Magdalena boys basketball coach Jory Mirabal.  “His teams would always play with heart and class.  We have been district rivals for years, but more importantly we respected each other on and off the court.  I will miss our conversations about basketball and life.  I feel like one of my brothers passed on too soon.  It’s an unbelievable loss for his family, community and Alamo Navajo School.”

Executive Director of the New Mexico High School Coaches Association Buster Mabrey posted his reflection on Twitter Friday afternoon. “Coach Pino was a friend of all coaches,” he wrote in a post. “He was at every clinic. He always had a smile and would make a point to always say, ‘Hello, and if you need anything, let me know.’”

In his seventh year in charge at Alamo Navajo, Pino led the Cougars to a 16-13 record this past season.