The New Mexico men’s basketball team experienced a rollercoaster of emotions with a triumphant victory followed by a challenging defeat. After celebrating the 112th anniversary of New Mexico statehood with a convincing 77-60 win over Wyoming, the Lobos (13-3, 1-2 MW) faced a setback, suffering an 83-73 loss at the hands of UNLV (8-6, 1-1 MW) at the Thomas & Mack Center.
Victory Over Wyoming: The New Mexico men’s basketball team marked the 112th anniversary of New Mexico statehood with a resounding 77-60 victory over Wyoming in their Mountain West home opener. The Lobos (13-2, 1-1 MW) showcased their dominance, securing a 17-point halftime lead and effectively fending off the Cowboys (8-7, 1-1 MW) in the second half.
Donovan Dent led the charge with his fifth 20-point game of the season, delivering a game-high 21 points. Supporting him, Jamal Mashburn, Jr. contributed 12 points, while Jaelen House and Nelly Junior Joseph each added 10 points. The Lobos’ defense was stellar, recording 16 steals, the second-highest ever against a Mountain West opponent in the program’s history.
In the first half, a series of well-timed runs propelled the Lobos to a commanding 39-22 lead. Despite Wyoming’s attempts at a comeback in the second half, the Lobos maintained their composure, sealing the game with a 77-60 victory.
Key Highlights:
- Donovan Dent’s 21-point performance led the Lobos to victory.
- The Lobos recorded 16 steals, their second-highest against a Mountain West opponent.
- UNM displayed resilience, weathering Wyoming’s attempts to close the gap in the second half.
- The Lobos celebrated Statehood Day with an electrifying performance in front of a spirited crowd.
Loss to UNLV: The New Mexico men’s basketball team came up short in an 83-73 loss at the hands of UNLV on Tuesday night at the Thomas & Mack Center. The Runnin’ Rebels (8-6, 1-1 MW) utilized a strong second half to secure the win over the Lobos (13-3, 1-2 MW).
Player Performances: JT Toppin and Jaelen House stood out, each contributing 16 points, with House also showcasing a season-high six assists. Jamal Mashburn, Jr. added 13 points, and Mustapha Amzil made a notable impact with 10 points coming off the bench. Tru Washington impressed defensively, tying a career high with five steals.
How It Happened: The Runnin’ Rebels took an early lead with a 4-0 advantage in the opening minute, maintaining control to lead 13-4 at the first media timeout. Despite a 6-0 UNM run narrowing the margin to 13-10, UNLV held a 21-18 lead at the midway point of the first half. The Lobos fought back, taking their first lead at 23-21 with 8:50 left in the half. However, a strong 11-2 Rebel run gave UNLV a 39-33 lead at halftime. In the second half, UNLV extended their lead, reaching 69-48 with 9:10 to play. The Lobos made a late push, closing the gap to within 13 with 5:30 left and narrowing the deficit to 73-64 with 4:27 to go. Unfortunately, the Rebels held on for the 83-73 victory.
Game Notes:
• UNLV secured their ninth win in the last 10 meetings in the series.
• The Rebels’ 10 turnovers were the fewest by a UNM opponent this season.
• Mustapha Amzil recorded his third double-figure game in the last five games, a notable improvement from the first 11 games of the season.
Quotable: Coach Richard Pitino expressed concern about the team’s slow starts in the third consecutive game, emphasizing the need for improvement. Despite the challenges, he acknowledged the team’s potential, stating, “I know we are better than this.”
Up Next: The Lobos will return home to face No. 19 San Diego State on Saturday. The game, set to tip off at noon and air on CBS, is a crucial matchup with fewer than 500 tickets remaining for sale. Limited student tickets are also available for claim. The Lobos aim to bounce back and deliver an impactful performance against a formidable opponent.
Lobo women fall to Boise State
Despite a strong effort from four starters scoring in double figures, the UNM women’s basketball team fell short to Boise State with a final score of 64-56. Aniyah Augmon led the Lobos with 15 points, supported by Paula Reus (11 points), Nyah Wilson (11 points), and Viané Cumber (10 points).
Defensively, the Lobos successfully contained Boise State’s leading scorer Natalie Pasco, holding her to five points—nine below her season average. Additionally, UNM limited Abby Muse, the MW rebound and block leader, to just two rebounds and one block.
The game saw back-and-forth action, with the Lobos responding to Boise State’s runs and closing the gap at various points. However, Boise State’s three-point shooting and timely plays ultimately secured their victory.
Key Highlights:
- Aniyah Augmon led the Lobos with 15 points.
- UNM starters showcased balanced scoring with four players in double figures.
- Defensive efforts limited Boise State’s key players, but the Broncos secured the win.
Upcoming Game: UNM (10-5, 1-1 MW) will remain at home to host Utah State on Wednesday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m.
