UNM boarded nine underclassmen on the plane to the Maggie Dixon Classic that begins today against University of Texas Pan America. The Lobos only have one starting senior following Ebony Walker’s suspension.
“We’re going to be able to get out there and play three tough games,” head coach Yvonne Sanchez said. “These guys are looking forward to it and so are we.”
Following today’s game, New Mexico will play two nationally ranked opponents, No. 5 Texas A&M and No. 18 DePaul.
“We’re going to play athletic teams who really like to push and make it hard for us,” Sanchez said. “You have to do what you do best. If they beat you at your best, then so be it.”
Sanchez said the youth on the team can’t be afraid to take risks early in the season. New Mexico is projected to run with an older starting unit, but incoming freshman Cherise Beynon is projected to get the nod to start at guard.
“Everybody’s going to make mistakes,” Sanchez said. “I’d be a little bit worried and nervous if we were peaking right now.”
Sanchez said getting redshirt senior guard Antiesha Brown back on the court will help the club. Although Brown missed the majority of the preseason recovering from hand surgery, the captain will be back on the floor leading the young group.
“It’s like night and day with Antiesha out there,” Sanchez said. “It’s nice to have her back.”
Brown transferred back to her home state of New Mexico following a year at Texas Tech, where she didn’t receive a lot of playing time her freshman campaign. Last year, Brown found success on the court averaging 14.6 points per game, the eighth most in the conference. Brown helped the Lobos out tremendously offensively, scoring in double digits in 25 of the team’s 30 games.
“The mechanics will come back with time,” Brown said. “Right now I think I need to solely focus on leading the team and bringing the calm.”
Brown said getting her team on the right path is the number one priority. Although gaining her shooting rhythm is going to take time, Brown said rebounding, defense and leadership is what she needs to bear down on.
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“Since we lost last year at Utah State, it’s been laser focus until this year,” Brown said. “I am glad it’s finally here.”
UNM had a rough go last season, seeming to fall apart at the end of games without fail. The Lobos took an early first round exit out of the Mountain West Tournament last season and finished 11-19 (6-12 MW).
The level of competition that the Lobos will face to get back in the swing of things is outstanding. Brown said she is exited to finally get back on the court to compete.
“The level of competition is going to be healthy,” Brown said. “It’s really going to be a test of will.”
As with any team, the first game of the season will surely bring a bit of nerves until UNM can enter a level of comfort. Brown said facing UTPA first will be a confidence booster before the Lobos face several ranked opponents.
“Even back to when I was a player, there’s always butterflies,” Sanchez said. “I think it’s a good thing.”
Sanchez said her team is ready to take on the challenge after an emotional week. Walker was indefinitely suspended after being accused of domestic violence. UNM missed Walker last year after an Achilles injury three games into the season.
Sanchez said she was pleased with the play of her posts following the 61-49 win in exhibition against ENMU. The Lobos’ depth down low will be tested early, in the Maggie Dixon Classic.
“Ready or not, here it is,” Sanchez said. “After the things we saw on film, they are ready to go.”
Liam Cary-Eaves is a sports reporter for the Daily Lobo. He can be reached at sports@dailylobo.com or on Twitter @Liam_CE.
