The Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas was taken over by passionate New Mexico fans during the Mountain West tournament, where the Lobos secured a 74-61 victory over the Colorado State Rams in the semifinals. New Mexico dominated the game with an 11-0 run at the start and an 8-0 run to end the first half.
Despite a late surge from CSU, New Mexico maintained control of the game, securing a spot in the title game against San Diego State. CSU struggled offensively, with star guard Isaiah Stevens dealing with a calf injury that affected the team’s performance. Stevens finished with 11 points, while Joel Scott led CSU with 20 points.
New Mexico’s strong performance was crucial, as they needed at least two wins in the tournament to secure a spot in the NCAA Tournament. The Lobos played with determination and focus, shooting 45% from the floor and outscoring CSU in the paint and off turnovers. Jaelen House and JT Toppin were instrumental in New Mexico’s victory, combining for 35 points.
As CSU awaits Selection Sunday, they are projected to be a No. 8 or 9 seed in the NCAA Tournament. Despite the loss, CSU coach Niko Medved emphasized the excitement of Selection Sunday and the thrill of not knowing their seed or opponents. Medved praised his team’s resilience and competitive spirit, looking ahead to the opportunities the tournament will bring.
Selection Sunday, scheduled for March 17, will reveal the NCAA Tournament bracket, where CSU is expected to make an appearance for the second time in three seasons. The anticipation and excitement leading up to Selection Sunday are part of the beauty of college basketball, and CSU is prepared to embrace whatever challenges come their way.
For more updates on college basketball and sports news, follow sports reporter Kevin Lytle on X (formerly known as Twitter) and Instagram @Kevin_Lytle. Stay tuned for the NCAA Tournament bracket reveal on Selection Sunday at 4 p.m. Mountain time.
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