Lobo Roundup: Olympians, Newcomers, and Coaching Commitments

Lobo Roundup: Olympians, Newcomers, and Coaching Commitments

The University of New Mexico Lobos are heating up on multiple fronts! Here’s a detailed look at some of the recent news surrounding Lobo athletics:

Track and Field

Lobo standout Brodie Young is officially headed to the Olympics! Young secured a spot on the Great Britain team for the mixed 4x400m relay at the Paris Games after his performance at the World Athletics Relays in Nassau, Bahamas. Young played a crucial role in helping his team secure one of 14 Olympic qualifying bids with a heat win. He’ll represent UNM this weekend at the Mountain West Outdoor Championships before heading to Paris.

The Lady Lobos’ distance running program received a major boost with the announcement of Kenyan distance star Pamela Kosgei joining the team for the upcoming season. Kosgei boasts an impressive resume, including a third-place finish at the U20 World Cross Country Championships and a U20 African champion title. Her personal bests in the 3,000m steeplechase and 10k would rank her among the nation’s fastest collegiate runners.

Lobos Honored on Anniversary Team: Seven former Lobo track and field athletes received well-deserved recognition by being named to the Mountain West’s 25th Anniversary Outdoor Track & Field Team. This prestigious list includes Lee Emmanuel, Josh Kerr, Kendall Spencer, Alice Wright, Courtney Frerichs, Weini Kelati, and Ednah Kurgat. These athletes represent a rich history of Lobo excellence in track and field.

Softball

Andrea Howard solidified her place as a Lobo legend by being named to the Mountain West’s 25th Anniversary Softball Team. Howard’s impact on the program is undeniable, as she holds numerous conference and program records. She is a true Lobo icon.

Women’s Golf

Myah McDonald and Lauren Lehigh are keeping their NCAA Championship dreams alive as they compete in the final round of the NCAA Las Vegas Regional. Both golfers are currently ranked in the top 25 individually, putting them in contention for a spot at the National Championships later this month. After the second round of the Las Vegas Regional, McDonald currently sits T-13th while Lehigh is T-21st.

Women’s Basketball

The Lobo women’s basketball team is bolstering its roster for the 2024-25 season with the signings of guards Lydie Mwamba and Joana Magalhães. Mwamba, a powerful and skilled guard, comes to UNM from Trinity Valley Community College. Magalhães, a quick and ball-handling point guard, hails from Portugal. These additions will add depth and talent to the Lobo backcourt.

Men’s Basketball

The Lobo men’s basketball program received a major vote of confidence with the announcement of a contract extension for head coach Richard Pitino. Pitino’s leadership has been instrumental in the team’s recent success, culminating in last season’s Mountain West Championship and NCAA Tournament appearance. The extension ensures his continued leadership through the 2028-29 season.