Preview: San Jose State Spartans at No. -- Utah State Aggies

LOGAN, Utah (Interstat) — A surging Utah State squad looks to continue its dominant start when it hosts a struggling San Jose State team in a Mountain West Conference men’s basketball matchup Saturday at the Dee Glen Smith Spectrum.

The Aggies (11-1) enter conference play as one of the nation’s surprise teams, boasting an .917 win percentage. Their lone blemish is a 74-61 road loss to South Florida on Dec. 4. Since then, they have reeled off six consecutive victories, including a 72-63 road win at Fresno State on Tuesday.

Utah State has been fueled by balance and efficiency, averaging 82.2 points per game while holding opponents to 66.8. Guard Mason Falslev has been a catalyst, averaging 18.0 points, 4.0 rebounds and 3.8 assists over the last five games. He scored 16 points in the win over Fresno State.

Conversely, San Jose State (5-8) seeks to halt a three-game skid. The Spartans fell 81-68 to San Diego State at home on Tuesday, their seventh loss in the last nine outings. Their defense has been a persistent issue, allowing an average of 78.5 points per game.

The Spartans’ primary bright spot has been the stellar play of guard Colby Garland, who is in the midst of a scoring tear. Over his last five games, Garland is averaging 24.8 points and 4.4 assists, including a 30-point performance against San Diego State. His offensive output will be critical for any chance at an upset.

Historically, this series has been lopsided in favor of Utah State, which has won 18 of the last 19 meetings. The Aggies have also been formidable at home in the Spectrum, presenting a daunting challenge for the visiting Spartans.

Saturday’s contest tips off a rigorous conference slate for both teams. Utah State will hit the road for games at Air Force and Boise State next week, while San Jose State hosts Fresno State on Tuesday before a road trip to Grand Canyon.

The game is scheduled for a 7 p.m. MST start on Saturday, Jan. 3, 2026.