The Lobos were left searching for answers after a disappointing road loss to San Jose State on New Year’s Day. UNM entered the game with a 13-2 record and an eight-game win streak.
There were a few reasons why the Lobos lost to the Spartans, including too many turnovers and mistakes in key moments of the game. Beyond that, the biggest reason the Lobos have not been as dominant over the past few games is the absence of starters Carlton Bragg and JJ Caldwell, who were both suspended indefinitely nearly two weeks ago.
The loss left UNM fans frustrated. The latest press release from the school will likely bring a few smiles.
According to the school, Bragg has been reinstated and can rejoin the team after serving a three-game suspension.
In a statement from the athletic department:
“After serving a three-game suspension, Carlton Bragg will rejoin all team activities, effective immediately. Bragg was suspended after information was received by the athletic department in late December 2019, that required review by appropriate University personnel. The Family Education Rights and Privacy Act (FERPA) prohibits UNM from disclosing or commenting on the details of the information provided or the results of the review.”
UNM athletic director Eddie Nuñez added the following statement:
“Student-athlete conduct is something that is taken very seriously at The University of New Mexico. We represent this University, the city of Albuquerque, and the State of New Mexico. Our expectation is to win with integrity.”
The Lobos return to the court on Tuesday against Fresno State at DreamStyle Arena. Tipoff is set for 9:00 pm.