Get ready for an exciting showdown as NM State (4-5, 0-0 CUSA) takes on New Mexico (6-1, 0-0 MW) in the Battle of I-25. In this highly anticipated matchup, both teams are eager to claim victory and establish their dominance. Let's dive into the key details, players to watch, and the rich history of this intense rivalry.
Fresh Start: Building a Competitive Roster
NM State enters the season with an entirely new roster. Explore how Head Coach Jason Hooten strategically built a team with experienced players from various levels of basketball.
NM State is embarking on a fresh start this season with a completely new roster. Head Coach Jason Hooten faced the challenge of building a competitive team from scratch, and he strategically brought in players with experience beyond the high school level.
With 12 individuals who have collegiate experience and one player with NBA Global Academy experience, the Aggies have a diverse and talented roster. Notably, eight players have experience at the Division I level, ensuring a high level of competition.
New Year, New Leader: Jason Hooten Takes the Helm
Discover how Jason Hooten, the new head coach of NM State, aims to bring the Aggie program back to glory. Learn about his successful tenure at Sam Houston and his plans for the team's future.
After 13 seasons as the head coach at Sam Houston, Jason Hooten has taken the reins of the NM State program. With a track record of success, Hooten is determined to restore the Aggie program to its former glory.
During his tenure at Sam Houston, Hooten amassed an impressive 261 wins and led the Bearkats to six postseason appearances. His coaching expertise was evident as he guided the team to their first-ever appearance in the NIT Tournament, where they secured a victory against Santa Clara.
Now, Hooten brings his winning mentality and experience to NM State, aiming to replicate that success and build a strong foundation for the Aggies.
Room to Grow: Adjusting to Conference USA
Explore how NM State is adapting to their new conference, Conference USA (CUSA), after a successful run in the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). Discover the team's underdog role and their determination to prove themselves in CUSA.
After a dominant run in the WAC, NM State is now a member of Conference USA. This transition brings new challenges and opportunities for the Aggies as they adjust to a different conference landscape.
In the coaches' preseason poll, NM State was projected to finish eighth out of nine teams in CUSA, marking a departure from their usual role as favorites in the WAC. However, the Aggies are determined to prove themselves and show that they belong among the top teams in their new conference.
With a history of success and a talented roster, NM State is ready to embrace the underdog role and make their mark in Conference USA.
Tournament Time: NM State's Championship Legacy
Discover NM State's impressive record in conference tournaments and their pursuit of another championship title. Learn about their success and the legacy they have built over the years.
NM State has a storied history of success in conference tournaments. Since 2006, they have won an impressive 10 conference tournament titles, making them one of the most successful programs in the nation.
The Aggies' championship legacy is a testament to their consistent performance and ability to rise to the occasion in high-pressure situations. Their success in conference tournaments has solidified their reputation as a formidable force in college basketball.
This season, NM State is determined to add another championship title to their collection and continue their tradition of excellence.
The Battle of I-25: Intense Rivalry Renewed
Get ready for an epic showdown as NM State and New Mexico face off in the Battle of I-25. Explore the history of this rivalry and the anticipation surrounding their first matchup since 2021.
The Battle of I-25 is a long-standing rivalry between NM State and New Mexico. These two teams have a history of intense matchups, and their upcoming game is highly anticipated by fans and players alike.
Since 1982, NM State and New Mexico have faced each other 86 times, with New Mexico holding a 50-36 advantage. The last time these teams met was in 2021, when the Aggies emerged victorious in an overtime thriller.
Now, both teams are eager to renew their rivalry and claim bragging rights in this highly anticipated matchup. The Battle of I-25 promises to be a thrilling contest that will captivate basketball fans.
