Spartans' Effort Falls Short Against Aztecs in a Game of Numbers at Viejas Arena
The San Jose State Spartans faced a tough challenge against the San Diego State Aztecs, culminating in a 51-63 defeat. The Spartans now hold a season record of 0-1, while the Aztecs advance to 1-0.
The game started with the Spartans trailing as they scored 13 points to the Aztecs' commanding 25 in the first quarter. Despite their efforts, including an impressive field goal percentage of 48 from two-point range, the Spartans could not close the gap by halftime, ending the second quarter with only nine additional points compared to the Aztecs' consistent performance netting them another 17.
Throughout this encounter, key statistics for San Jose State included five blocks and nine steals which showcased their defensive capabilities. However, their offense struggled with lower percentages from beyond the arc and at free throw line - hitting just four out of nineteen three-point attempts (21 percent) and converting seven out of fifteen free throws (47 percent). The team's total rebound count stood strong at thirty-five with eight offensive rebounds contributing to second-chance opportunities that resulted in nine points.
The third quarter saw an improved performance by San Jose State as they added fourteen points to their tally but still fell short against thirteen by San Diego State. In a final push during fourth quarter play, they managed fifteen more points; however, it was not enough to overcome an early deficit or counteract twenty turnovers that led to six points for themselves but also allowed twenty for their opponents off those same errors.
San Jose State's assist-to-turnover ratio was notably low at 0.41 due primarily to twenty-two player turnovers which hindered potential scoring drives. On contrast, The Aztecs maintained better control over ball possession evidenced by higher assist numbers (fourteen) and fewer turnovers (sixteen), achieving an assists turnover ratio of exactly one.
Looking ahead after this conference game setback for Spartan fans is another opportunity as San Jose State prepares for its next match-up on January 27th against Colorado State Rams at Moby Arena in Fort Collins. Fans can catch all action live from Moby Arena or tune into broadcasts scheduled for noon Pacific Time on that date.