Lobos Edge Out Rams in a Nail-Biter at The Pit
The New Mexico Lobos, unranked and determined, secured a narrow victory over the 22nd ranked Colorado State Rams with a final score of 68-66. The Lobos' season record now stands at an improved 1-0, while the Rams face their first setback with a record of 0-1.
In what was an intense conference game at The Pit in Albuquerque, the New Mexico Lobos showcased resilience and tactical acumen to overcome the Colorado State Rams. Both teams ended the first half neck and neck with each scoring 30 points. However, it was in the second half where the Lobos managed to outscore their opponents by two crucial points.
The home team's defensive efforts were slightly superior; they amassed four blocks compared to three from the visitors. Moreover, their agility on defense was evident as they racked up seven steals during play. This defensive hustle contributed significantly to containing the Rams' offense.
Offensively, both teams had an identical field goal percentage of thirty-eight percent but differed in execution beyond the arc where New Mexico shot thirty-three percent compared to Colorado State's thirty percent from three-point territory. The free throw line also played a pivotal role; despite shooting only sixty-five percent compared to an impressive eighty percent by Colorado State, it was enough for New Mexico to maintain their slender lead.
The Lobos demonstrated better ball control with only four turnovers against twelve from Colorado State which allowed them more opportunities at scoring. Their assist-to-turnover ratio stood at an impressive 2.5 while that of their opponents was exactly half that number.
New Mexico capitalized on second-chance points scoring nine against six by Colorado State which can be attributed to their offensive rebounding effort where they grabbed six rebounds over five by the opposition. Points off turnovers were also even for both sides at nine each indicating how closely contested this game truly was.
As fans look ahead after this nail-biting encounter, they can mark their calendars for another home game spectacle as The New Mexico Lobos are set to face off against Air Force Falcons on February 24th at The Pit in Albuquerque. This midday showdown is scheduled for a 2:00 PM start time and will be broadcasted live on CBS Sports Network for fans unable to attend what promises to be another captivating matchup.