The University of New Mexico Lobos men’s basketball team walked into Las Vegas and dismantled their Mountain West rival, the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, 89-61. This marks the largest UNM victory over the Rebels in the history of the rivalry and rounded off one of UNM’s most complete performances this season, with the Lobos controlling the game from start to finish.
UNM set the tone immediately, starting the game on a 4-0 run and forcing UNLV to use an early timeout. With the Lobos playing exceptional defense, UNLV could not keep the pace offensively as UNM grew their advantage, leading the first half strong.
The Lobos continued to control pace throughout the first half, using efficient offense and active defense to keep UNLV at arm’s length. With 10 minutes left to go before halftime, the Lobos increased their lead 22-16, while the Rebels failed to find consistency on the offensive side.
UNM’s movement created open-looks from beyond the arc, as the Lobos finished the night with 10 threes. It has marked UNM’s fourth consecutive game with double-digit three-pointers. This also marks UNM’s longest streak of double-digit threes since a six-game streak to open the 2018-2019 season.
Defensive pressure remained the difference as the first half concluded. UNM forced turnovers and contested shots, frustrating UNLV. The Lobos ended the first half strong leading 41-22.
Coming into the second half, the Lobos had no plans of slowing down on their rival, continuing to capitalize on defense and keeping UNLV from building any momentum.
As the game continued, the Lobos maintained control of the game, constantly limiting transition opportunities. UNM led with as many as 38 points in the second half, effectively ending the game before the buzzer sounded. UNM would walk out of the “Pit West” victorious.
With the win, UNM improved to 8-2 in conference and 17-4 overall. The Lobos now look ahead to their next game against the San Jose State University Spartans on Saturday, Jan. 31.
Austin Bishop is a freelance reporter for the Daily Lobo. He can be reached at sports@dailylobo.com or on X @austinrbishop23
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