Game Summary
San Diego State (SDSU) defeated New Mexico (UNM) 83-79 on Saturday at Viejas Arena. This victory placed SDSU alone at the top of the Mountain West conference with a 7-0 record, following Utah State's loss at Grand Canyon.
SDSU junior Miles Byrd commented on the competitive nature of the Mountain West conference, expressing satisfaction with the win despite the team losing a 15-point lead during the game.
Key Moments
BJ Davis made a jumper with 11 seconds remaining, giving the Aztecs (13-4) the lead after a turnover had previously resulted in a Lobos dunk.
Aztecs center Miles Heide was intentionally fouled with 56.8 seconds left while SDSU was trailing by two points. Despite a season free-throw percentage of 38.1%, Heide successfully made both free throws, securing a one-point lead for SDSU. Coach Eric Olen confirmed he instructed the intentional foul, aiming to regain possession if Heide missed. Teammates expressed confidence in Heide's ability.
Following a New Mexico timeout, Miles Byrd secured his third steal of the night, which led to a jumper by Davis. New Mexico's Uriah Tenette missed a potential tying shot, and Reese Dixon-Waters secured a rebound, was fouled, and made both free throws, establishing the final four-point margin.
Coach and Player Statements
Coach Brian Dutcher attributed the win to the team's mental toughness and resilience, highlighting key plays made under pressure.
Player Statistics
Miles Byrd contributed 21 points, eight rebounds, three assists, three steals, and four blocks in 31 minutes. Pharaoh Compton scored 12 points, Taj DeGourville added 11, and Dixon-Waters had 10 points for SDSU, which shot 49.1% from the field.
For New Mexico, Tomislav Buljan led with 20 points and 14 rebounds, playing a significant role in the team's comeback from a 15-point second-half deficit. Jake Hall scored 15 points, and Luke Haupt had 11.
Game Dynamics
SDSU held a 48-35 lead at halftime, including a 12-0 scoring run. Analytics indicate SDSU is a "streaky team," known for both generating and allowing significant scoring runs within games.
SDSU allowed a 10-0 run in the second half. Magoon Gwath played limited minutes due to a hip injury and an offensive foul, finishing with two points and two rebounds. Coach Dutcher stated the team requires Gwath's health and confidence for future success.