Dakota Montoya was a surprise pick to some when he was named head boys basketball coach at St. Michael’s in 2024. The Clayton graduate who played football at Eastern New Mexico University said he recognized there were some critics and question marks early on, but he was excited to step up to the challenge of the school’s high standards.

Following a state runner-up season in 2024-25, Montoya has the Horsemen atop the Class 3A rankings this season as they look to take care of “unfinished business.”

In the latest episode of “The Sports Den” podcast, Montoya joins Santa Fe New Mexican sports reporters Will Webber and James Barron to discuss his squad’s strong season, his passion for athletics and how he handles high expectations.

Montoya talks about the luxury of his team having size that’s unusual at the 3A level. He also touches on how the squad has dealt with injuries and how his players have improved at shooting and playing inside-out basketball.

The former ENMU player ends by sharing his thoughts on the school hiring Art Briles to lead its football program, and offers his Super Bowl prediction.

After the break, Will and James dive into some Lobo talk ahead of the University of New Mexico men’s basketball team’s big matchup with Utah State. They also give their predictions for Super Bowl LX.