New Mexico Looks to Extend Win Streak Against San Diego State in Mountain West Clash

SAN DIEGO (Interstat) — A pivotal Mountain West Conference men’s basketball matchup is set for Saturday at Viejas Arena as the surging New Mexico Lobos visit the San Diego State Aztecs.

The Lobos (14-3, 4-0 MW) enter on a four-game winning streak, including an 87-64 rout of Grand Canyon on Tuesday. They are one of two remaining unbeaten teams in conference play. The Aztecs (12-4, 4-0 MW), winners of five straight, are the other, setting the stage for an early battle for league supremacy.

New Mexico’s offense has been potent during its streak, averaging 84 points per game in conference victories. The Lobos are led by guard Jake Hall, who is averaging 18.7 points over his last six games. He scored 22 points against Grand Canyon and had 24 points and seven rebounds in a blowout win at Air Force last weekend.

San Diego State counters with its trademark defensive intensity, having held opponents to 60.4 points per game during its win streak. Guard Miles Byrd has been a key two-way contributor, averaging 11.2 points and 4.2 assists over the last five games. He posted 12 points, four assists and two blocks in Wednesday’s 74-57 road win at Wyoming.

The Aztecs’ most dramatic win this season was a 110-107 triple-overtime thriller against Boise State on Jan. 3. New Mexico’s last loss was a 62-53 defeat at Boise State on Dec. 30, a game in which Hall was held to just two points.

History favors the home team. San Diego State has dominated the series recently, winning 13 of the last 15 meetings. The Aztecs have also won 10 consecutive games against the Lobos at Viejas Arena, a streak dating back to 2014.

Saturday’s winner will gain sole possession of first place in the Mountain West standings. Tipoff is scheduled for 1 p.m. PST.