In a thrilling game that had fans cheering from the stands, the San Diego State Aztecs took down the Nevada Wolf Pack 80-61 on March 4th at Viejas Arena. This significant victory on Senior Night not only celebrated the team’s graduating players but also solidified their hopes for the NCAA Tournament as they secured the No. 4 seed in the upcoming Mountain West tournament.
Dominant Performance on Senior Night
The Aztecs showcased impressive teamwork, with standout performances from several players. Nicholas Boyd led the charge with 18 points, shooting 70% from the field, while Miles Heide added 14 points and six rebounds. The Aztecs started strong, leading by as much as 27 points during the game. Their defense was also commendable, stifling Nevada’s attacks and keeping them at bay throughout the match.
Looking Ahead to the Mountain West Tournament
With this victory, the Aztecs not only improved their overall record to 21-8 but also prepared themselves for a challenging matchup against Boise State on Thursday, March 9th. This game is crucial for the Aztecs as they aim to secure a favorable position for the NCAA Tournament. Senior forward Jared Coleman-Jones stressed the importance of this game, declaring it a “must-win” moment.
Key Contributions and Moments
- In addition to Boyd and Heide, Pharaoh Compton scored 13 points, with BJ Davis rounding off the scoring by contributing 10 points.
- Nevada’s leading scorer Tyler Rolison managed 19 points, but the team struggled without injured players Tre Coleman and Daniel Foster.
- The game marked a bittersweet moment as it served as the last home broadcast for long-time radio commentator Ted Leitner, who is set to retire.
Coach Brian Dutcher praised his team for their defensive pressure that made a huge difference in the game. “It was a picture-perfect night for us,” said senior Wayne McKinney III, who couldn’t be happier with how the team performed before their home crowd.
Playoff Implications
This win has boosted the Aztecs’ chances for an at-large bid to the NCAA tournament, which is a significant achievement considering the ups and downs they faced during the season. Their performance, especially on such an important night, is sure to leave a lasting impression on both the selection committee and their fans.
Team Health Updates
While the victory was a big morale boost, there are concerns over the availability of player Magoon Gwath, who is dealing with a knee injury. Coach Dutcher remains hopeful that Gwath will be back in action should the Aztecs progress in the tournament.
Final Thoughts
As the San Diego State Aztecs prepare for the Mountain West tournament, the energy is high, and spirits are lifted after their convincing win over Nevada. With only a few days until their next game, the team is focusing on building on their recent success and aiming for a deep run into the postseason. Fans are eager to see what the Aztecs will bring to the court as they continue their journey towards NCAA tournament glory.
