The New Mexico Lobos secured a 93-77 victory over San Jose, advancing to the Mountain West semifinals.
LAS VEGAS – The New Mexico Lobos secured a 93-77 victory over San Jose, advancing to the Mountain West semifinals.
The game was tight initially, but New Mexico pulled ahead in the second half. Tomislav Buljan led with 25 points and 15 rebounds.
“I mean, we knew that we can’t underestimate this team,” said Tomislav Buljan, New Mexico basketball player. “They beat Boise. We prepare well. We play like a team. A little bit slow start, but we caught up. You know, we were showing it on the ball, playing good defense when it mattered. Just being as a collective.”
The Lobos now face San Diego State, having split their regular season games. Players aim to limit mistakes against the Aztecs’ defense.
“First of all, take care of the ball,” said Deyton Albury, New Mexico basketball player. “Very defensive-oriented team. Get the best shots possible, and execute down the stretch, that’s going to be very important.”
Game strategy
“SDSU is going to try and punk you out, try and be super physical with you guys,” said Jake Hall, New Mexico basketball player. “So, you know, we need to bring the physicality to them, kind of like we did in The Pit. And, you know, we got it down The Pit. They’re a really good team, really good defensive team. And you know, we know they’re super gap oriented and you know, super physical and try to out rebound you. So you know we’ll be ready for them.”
In their February win, New Mexico excelled in free throws and turnovers. They made 25 free throws and had only six turnovers, while SDSU had seven turnovers and made 13 free throws.
In January’s loss, New Mexico had 17 turnovers and made 15 free throws. SDSU had 16 turnovers and made 22 free throws.
Both teams are on the bubble and can’t afford an early exit. The game tips off at 10 p.m. from the Mountain West Tournament in Las Vegas.
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