The New Mexico men’s basketball team made history by winning the 2024 Mountain West Championship, defeating San Diego State 68-61 in the final. Jaelen House was named Tournament MVP after scoring 28 points in the game. The Lobos used a strong offensive start to take an early lead and went on to secure the victory with a late 8-0 run.
Throughout the tournament, the Lobos showed dominance, leading for over 90% of the total minutes played and setting records along the way. House set a new school record for most points scored in a conference tournament, while Jamal Mashburn, Jr. had his first 20-point game against a Mountain West opponent. The duo of House and Mashburn also made history by scoring 20 points each in a game nine times this season.
Head coach Richard Pitino praised his team’s belief and toughness, acknowledging the challenge of winning four games in four days. The Lobos now look ahead to the NCAA Tournament, where they earned the Mountain West’s automatic bid and will await the announcement of the bracket on Sunday.
The victory is not only a momentous achievement for the team but also a source of pride for the state of New Mexico and the city of Albuquerque. The Lobos’ success in the Mountain West Championship highlights their dedication and skill on the court, setting the stage for a promising run in the postseason.
As fans eagerly anticipate the NCAA Tournament selection show, the Lobos can bask in the glory of their championship win and the hard work that led them to this moment. Stay tuned for more updates on New Mexico’s journey in the upcoming tournament as they aim to continue their winning streak and make a mark on college basketball.
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