UNM men’s basketball defeated Fresno State 83–74 on Wednesday in the Pit, but the game was overshadowed by heavy officiating. Mountain West officials called 39 combined fouls, including 16 on UNM in the second half, prompting head coach Eric Olen to receive just the third technical foul of his career. Despite late whistles allowing Fresno State to close the margin, the Lobos controlled the game behind a dominant defensive effort. UNM forced 22 turnovers, recorded a season-high 18 steals and turned those into 29 points, improving to another conference win ahead of Saturday’s 90's themed matchup with Nevada.

Erik, Nick, and Ed recap the game with their personal takes and look ahead to Nevada.

Sam Hadfield from 801 Bracketology joins the show to talk NCAA bids, bubble watch and first-four in scenarios for New Mexico Basketball and the rest of the Mountain West Conference.

Fresno State Gamer: https://www.thepitpressnm.com/news/heavy-officiating-overshadows-strong-unm-defense-in-win-over-fresno-state

In a clash that lived up to two decades of rivalry, the University of New Mexico stood on the precipice of a stunning comeback and a share of the Mountain West lead. After erasing a 15-point deficit in the hostile confines of Viejas Arena, the Lobos had the ball and the momentum in a tied game with under 40 seconds to play. But in a heartbreak defined by inches, a single steal by SDSU’s Miles Byrd turned a potential New Mexico triumph into a 83-79 Aztec victory, leaving the Lobos wondering what might have been.

In this episode we discuss the Lobos and Aztecs game of runs, key performers, coaching decisions, and missed opportunities.

Gamer: https://www.thepitpressnm.com/news/san-diego-state-steals-new-mexicos-hopes-of-mountain-west-lead

New Mexico used stifling second-half defense and a smart offensive adjustment to defeat Grand Canyon 87–64 Tuesday at The Pit. After a tight first half, the Lobos clamped down defensively, holding the Lopes to 28% shooting and forcing tough, contested looks. Offensively, UNM countered GCU’s pick-and-roll drop coverage with mid-range jumpers and consistent trips to the free throw line, led by Jake Hall and Uriah Tenette. Strong physical play, balanced scoring, and impactful minutes from JT Rock helped UNM pull away and extend its home winning streak to 21 games.

Gamer: https://www.thepitpressnm.com/news/lobos-find-sweet-spot-jumpers-and-defense-in-blowout-over-gcu