As the New Mexico Lobos prepare to defend their home court against the Colorado State Rams, fans are buzzing with anticipation for what promises to be a showdown filled with intensity and strategic play. The upcoming battle at The Pit in Albuquerque is not just another game; it's a chance for the Lobos to solidify their dominance in front of their loyal supporters.

Mar 3, 2023; Fort Collins, Colorado, USA; New Mexico Lobos guard Javonte Johnson (13) controls the ball as Colorado State Rams guard Isaiah Rivera (23) guards in the first half at Moby Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

The recent performance of the New Mexico Lobos has been nothing short of impressive. On December 21, they showcased their prowess by outscoring UC Irvine Anteaters with a convincing 78-65 victory. Their offensive strategy was on point, converting 45 percent from two-point range and an impressive 75 percent from the free-throw line. With such accuracy, they dominated points in the paint and capitalized on turnovers, scoring 21 points off them.

Defense has also been a strong suit for UNM as evidenced by their game against Santa Clara Broncos on December 9 where they racked up an astounding 18 steals leading to a significant advantage in points off turnovers (27). This aggressive defense coupled with efficient scoring led them to an emphatic win with a scoreline of 93-76.

Mar 3, 2023; Fort Collins, Colorado, USA; New Mexico Lobos guard Donovan Dent (2) controls the ball against Colorado State Rams guard John Tonje (1) as guard Isaiah Stevens (4) and forward Josiah Allick (53) defend in the second half at Moby Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

However, one cannot overlook that during their face-off against New Mexico State Aggies on December 16, despite pulling through with a narrow win (73-72), there were signs of struggle. Their free throw percentage dipped alarmingly to just 50 percent which could have cost them dearly had it not been for other factors like high steal numbers (14) contributing to crucial turnovers.

The Colorado State Rams will undoubtedly be aware of these statistics and will come prepared. They'll aim to exploit any weaknesses while bringing strategies that challenge UNM's defensive tenacity. It's imperative that UNM maintains its defensive aggression while improving free throw consistency if they want to continue riding this wave of success.

Mar 3, 2023; Fort Collins, Colorado, USA; New Mexico Lobos forward Morris Udeze (24) knocks the ball away from Colorado State Rams guard John Tonje (1) as forward Josiah Allick (53) defends in the first half at Moby Arena. Mandatory Credit: Isaiah J. Downing-USA TODAY Sports

Looking ahead at this matchup, it seems clear that if UNM can maintain its current form – particularly its defensive pressure – they should be able to control the game's tempo and keep CSU at bay. However, basketball is unpredictable; even though statistics lean towards UNM as favorites especially playing at home where crowd support acts as an extra player - complacency could prove fatal.

Fans eager for this thrilling encounter should mark February 22nd on their calendars when these two teams lock horns at The Pit starting at 8:00 PM MST. For those unable to attend in person, CBS Sports Network will broadcast all live-action nationally on channel number 221 ensuring you don't miss any part of what promises to be an electrifying contest between two formidable adversaries.

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