Preview: New Mexico Lobos at Air Force Falcons

AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. (Interstat) — A Mountain West Conference matchup featuring teams at opposite ends of the standings unfolds Saturday when the surging New Mexico Lobos visit the struggling Air Force Falcons.

The Lobos (12-3) enter Clune Arena riding a wave of momentum, having won four of their last five games. Their most recent outing was an 80-70 road victory at Colorado State on Tuesday. Guard Jake Hall led the way with 18 points, continuing a strong stretch where he has averaged 11.8 points over his last five contests. New Mexico’s offense has been potent, scoring 78 points or more in eight of their 12 wins.

Conversely, the Falcons (3-12) are mired in a difficult season, seeking to halt a five-game losing skid. They are coming off a 99-62 home loss to Utah State on Tuesday. Guard Caleb Walker has been a bright spot, averaging 10.8 points over his last four games, including a 17-point performance against Wyoming on Dec. 30. Air Force has struggled defensively, allowing an average of 81.2 points during their current losing streak.

The historical context and trajectory heavily favor the visitors. New Mexico has built its record with quality non-conference wins, including an 80-78 victory at Mississippi State. Air Force’s three wins have come against lower-tier competition, and they have yet to secure a victory against a Division I opponent since Nov. 23.

For Air Force, the challenge will be containing a balanced New Mexico attack and finding consistent scoring beyond Walker. The Falcons will need to leverage their home court at 6,621-foot elevation, though the Lobos are accustomed to the altitude from their Albuquerque base.

For New Mexico, the game represents a critical opportunity to solidify their conference standing and avoid a letdown against a overmatched opponent before a tough upcoming stretch that includes a road game at San Diego State.

Tipoff is set for Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026, at Clune Arena. The teams will meet again in Albuquerque on Feb. 17.