Opinion
3 min read

Air Force Falcons Set to Soar Against New Mexico Lobos in Las Vegas Showdown

As the Air Force Falcons prepare to face off against the New Mexico Lobos at the Thomas & Mack Center, fans are buzzing with anticipation. The upcoming clash on March 13th promises to be a spectacle of skill and strategy, with both teams eager to claim victory.


Feb 10, 2023; Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA; Air Force Falcons guard Carter Murphy (4) gestures as he dribbles the ball up court in the second half against the New Mexico Lobos at Clune Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

The Falcons have shown tenacity in their recent games, despite falling short against Colorado State Rams with a score of 73-82 on March 9th. In that game, they demonstrated a solid free-throw percentage of 80 percent and an impressive three-point shooting at 41 percent. Their ability to sink shots from beyond the arc could prove pivotal against UNM.


However, it's not just their shooting that should concern the Lobos. The AFA's defensive efforts have been notable as well; they managed four steals and one block in their last outing. This defensive hustle will need to be at its peak when they encounter UNM's offense.


Feb 10, 2023; Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA; New Mexico Lobos guard Jamal Mashburn Jr. (5) controls the ball in the first half against the Air Force Falcons at Clune Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

On March 6th, AFA faced a tough challenge against Wyoming Cowboys but showed resilience by ramping up their performance in the second half, scoring 41 points compared to just 22 in the first half. Although they ultimately lost by a narrow margin of 63-74, this comeback spirit is something that could fuel them when facing adversity.


One area where AFA might focus is rebounding; during their game on March 2nd against Utah State Aggies – ranked number 22 at the time – they were outrebounded by eleven boards which contributed to their loss of 60-72. Improving on this aspect will be crucial for controlling possession and limiting second-chance points for UNM.


Feb 10, 2023; Colorado Springs, Colorado, USA; Air Force Falcons forward Beau Becker (14) attempts a shot in the second half against the New Mexico Lobos at Clune Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

The Falcons' assist-to-turnover ratio has been consistent across games; however, minimizing turnovers while maximizing assists will enhance their chances significantly. They've shown that teamwork can lead to success with an assist-to-turnover ratio reaching as high as two during some matches.


Looking ahead towards UNM, it’s clear that if AFA can maintain strong perimeter defense while capitalizing on fast-break opportunities created through steals and blocks, they stand a good chance of dominating proceedings come game day.


Fans eager for action can mark their calendars for March 13th when Air Force takes flight at Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas at precisely five o'clock post meridian Mountain Time Zone (-06:00). The battle between these two contenders will be broadcasted live over MW Network via internet streaming services – an encounter you certainly won't want to miss!

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