In this highly anticipated basketball matchup, NM State (2-5, 0-0 CUSA) will face off against Univ of the Southwest (3-2, 0-0 NAIA). Both teams are determined to claim victory and showcase their skills on the court. Join me as we delve into the exciting details of this clash between basketball titans.
A Fresh Start with a New Roster
NM State enters the season with an entirely new roster, bringing in experienced players to compete at a high level.
NM State is embarking on a new chapter with a completely revamped roster. Head Coach Jason Hooten has assembled a team of players with extensive basketball experience, including collegiate and NBA Global Academy backgrounds. This infusion of talent and expertise sets the stage for an exciting season.
With no players from the previous season returning, NM State is embracing the challenge of building a competitive team from scratch. The roster consists of 13 players with collegiate experience, eight of whom have played at the Division I level. This blend of skill and determination will be key to the Aggies' success.
The Leadership of Coach Jason Hooten
Coach Jason Hooten brings a wealth of experience and success to the Aggie program, aiming to restore its former glory.
Jason Hooten, the new head coach of NM State, is no stranger to leading successful basketball programs. With 261 wins and a .607 win percentage during his 13-year tenure at Sam Houston, Hooten has proven himself as a skilled coach. He aims to bring the Aggie program back to its winning ways.
During his final year at Sam Houston, Hooten guided the team to its first-ever appearance in the NIT Tournament, making a splash by defeating Santa Clara. His coaching prowess was further demonstrated with upset road wins over Power Five programs. The Aggies are eager to tap into Hooten's expertise and replicate that success.
Adjusting to a New Conference
NM State faces the challenge of transitioning to Conference USA after a successful run in the Western Athletic Conference.
After 18 years in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC), NM State is now a member of Conference USA (CUSA). This move presents a new challenge for the Aggies, who were accustomed to dominating the WAC with numerous regular season and tournament titles.
In their first season in CUSA, NM State is projected to finish eighth out of nine teams, a departure from their perennial status as favorites in the WAC. However, the Aggies are determined to prove themselves in their new conference and continue their winning tradition.
The Importance of Conference Tournaments
NM State's success in conference tournaments has solidified their standing as one of the top programs in the nation.
Since 2006, NM State has won an impressive 10 conference tournament titles, making them one of the most successful programs in the country. Only Gonzaga, from the West Coast Conference, has more tournament wins with 14.
These conference tournament victories have not only showcased the Aggies' skill and competitiveness but have also earned them a reputation as a formidable force in college basketball. NM State will undoubtedly strive to add to their impressive tournament record this season.
The Impact of Assistant Coach Payne Andrus
Assistant Coach Payne Andrus brings valuable experience and knowledge to the Aggie program.
Payne Andrus, an assistant coach at NM State, played a significant role in the success of the Sam Houston program before joining the Aggies. His contributions, along with his familiarity with Head Coach Jason Hooten's coaching style, make him an invaluable asset to the team.
Andrus's expertise and experience will be crucial in guiding the Aggies towards success. His understanding of the game and ability to develop players will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the team's performance.
