In a thrilling showdown at Viejas Arena on March 4th, the San Diego State Aztecs delivered an impressive performance, defeating the Nevada Wolf Pack 80-61. This victory not only marked a wonderful Senior Night for the Aztecs but also secured their No. 4 seed in the upcoming Mountain West Tournament. With the season coming to an end, the Aztecs are now eyeing a chance to make it into the NCAA tournament, bolstered by their recent successes.
Dominating the Court
The Aztecs came out strong right from the start, taking an early lead that they never lost. By halftime, they held a commanding 43-21 advantage. Key player Nicholas Boyd shined during this crucial game, scoring 18 points and helping energize the team and crowd alike. Fellow players Miles Heide and Pharaoh Compton contributed significantly, with Heide putting up 14 points and Compton adding 13. The team’s solid shooting resulted in a 54.5% field goal percentage, a clear testament to their preparation and teamwork.
Seniors Take Center Stage
On this special night dedicated to the seniors, forward Jared Coleman-Jones emphasized the importance of the win, calling it a “must-win” for the team. After a tough loss previously, Coach Brian Dutcher was hopeful for a strong response from his players. Senior Wayne McKinney III summed up the night beautifully, saying it was “picture perfect,” underscoring the emotional weight of the occasion as the team honored their senior players.
Aiming for the NCAA Tournament
This victory not only improved the Aztecs’ record to 21-8 overall and 14-6 in the Mountain West, but it also enhanced their chances for an at-large bid in the NCAA Tournament. The win came at an important time as teams across the country battle for their spots in the prestigious tournament. Various factors, including other teams’ losses, have helped boost San Diego State’s position in the eyes of tournament selectors.
Stats from the Game
| Player | Points |
|---|---|
| Nicholas Boyd | 18 |
| Miles Heide | 14 |
| Pharaoh Compton | 13 |
| BJ Davis | 10 |
| Tyler Rolison (Nevada) | 19 |
Looking Ahead
As the Aztecs prepare for their quarterfinal matchup against Boise State, the momentum from this win will undoubtedly play a critical role in their upcoming performances. Coach Brian Dutcher will be keeping a close eye on the health of player Magoon Gwath, who is uncertain for the Mountain West tournament. The team is hopeful he will recover soon as they gear up for the challenges ahead.
Reflections on the Game’s Impact
This game not only settled the Aztecs’ ranking for the tournament but also highlighted the strength and depth of their roster. The chemistry between players has been evident throughout the season, and nights like these serve as a reminder of how teamwork can lead to significant success on the court. With their sights set on March Madness, fans are eagerly awaiting their next steps.