Fresno State at San Diego State
SAN DIEGO (Interstat) — A surging San Diego State looks to continue its climb in the Mountain West standings when it hosts a Fresno State team seeking consistency on Saturday at Viejas Arena.
The Aztecs (10-4, 2-0 MW) have won four straight, including a hard-fought 73-68 road victory at Nevada and a triple-overtime 110-107 thriller against Boise State to open conference play. The Bulldogs (7-8, 1-1) are coming off a 70-55 win at San Jose State but had dropped three consecutive games prior.
San Diego State’s success has been fueled by balance and defense. Forward Miles Byrd has been a key contributor, averaging 11.2 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.5 assists over his last six games. He posted 14 points and five assists in the win over Nevada. The Aztecs’ depth was on full display in their marathon win over Boise State, with five players scoring in double figures.
Fresno State will rely heavily on guard Zaon Collins, who is coming off a 14-point, seven-assist performance against San Jose State. Collins has dished out seven assists in three of his last four games, directing an offense that also features scoring threats in David Douglas and DeShawn Gory. The Bulldogs’ season has been marked by narrow defeats, including a one-point loss to Nevada.
Historically a tough venue for visitors, Viejas Arena provides a significant advantage for the Aztecs. San Diego State has won its last two home games by an average of 32 points.
A win would keep San Diego State atop the early conference race, while Fresno State aims to secure a resume-building road victory and reach .500 overall.
Tip-off is set for Saturday afternoon. San Diego State visits Wyoming on Jan. 14, while Fresno State hosts Colorado State on Jan. 13.