Sun Feb 16 21:30:00 UTC 2025: **Utah State Aggies Face Tough Test Against New Mexico Lobos in Crucial Mountain West Showdown**
Albuquerque, NM – With the Mountain West Conference regular season championship hanging in the balance, the Utah State Aggies (22-3, 12-2 MW) will face a daunting challenge on Sunday as they travel to Albuquerque to take on the first-place New Mexico Lobos (21-4, 13-1 MW). Tip-off is set for 2 p.m. MT and will be broadcast on CBS Sports Network.
The game marks a rematch of a contest two weeks ago where the Lobos handed the Aggies their worst home loss in three decades, a 82-63 defeat. Utah State controlled the game for nearly 27 minutes before New Mexico unleashed a dominant final 13 minutes, outscoring them 43-15. Aggies head coach Jerrod Calhoun attributed the loss to offensive struggles, poor defensive pick-and-roll coverage, and a significant rebounding deficit (48-33).
Despite the lopsided loss, Calhoun emphasized that his team has learned valuable lessons and is focused on playing a complete 40-minute game. Aggie guard Drake Allen echoed this sentiment, stating that the team is driven by the desire to win a Mountain West Championship, not simply revenge.
New Mexico enters the game riding a seven-game winning streak, fueled by the stellar play of Donovan Dent (19.6 ppg, 6.5 apg) and Nelly Joseph (13.6 ppg, 10.9 rpg). The Lobos boast a balanced attack with other players contributing in double figures.
Utah State, winners of their last three games, will counter with their own strong offensive core led by Ian Martinez and Mason Falslev. The Aggies’ success will depend on improved shooting, defensive intensity, and securing crucial rebounds.
Coach Calhoun acknowledged the challenge of playing in “The Pit,” New Mexico’s notoriously hostile home arena, but expressed confidence in his team’s ability to perform on the road. The game promises a high-stakes showdown with significant implications for the Mountain West Conference title race.
First Piper 