On March 4, 2025, the San Diego State Aztecs delivered a thrilling performance against the Nevada Wolf Pack, winning decisively with a score of 80-61 at Viejas Arena on Senior Night. This important victory not only thrilled the home crowd but also solidified the Aztecs’ position as the No. 4 seed in the upcoming Mountain West tournament. With this win, the Aztecs improved their overall record to 21-8, setting them on a promising path towards the NCAA tournament.
The Highlights of the Game
In front of enthusiastic fans, the Aztecs showcased their offensive prowess and solid defense. Senior forward Jared Coleman-Jones, who emphasized the significance of the game, described it as “a must-win.” The team surged ahead during the second half, presenting a dominant lead that reached 27 points at one point. Nick Boyd led the scoring for the Aztecs with 18 points, while several other players, including BJ Davis, Miles Byrd, and Wayne McKinney III, contributed with double-digit scoring. Their ability to maintain a shooting percentage of 54.5% stretched their streak of victories when shooting over 50% to an impressive 103 games.
Rallying for the Tournament
With this win, the Aztecs not only fortified their tournament resume but also boosted their chances of receiving an at-large bid for the NCAA tournament, reducing the pressure for a tournament championship. Coach Brian Dutcher was pleased with the team’s defensive urgency and the effective offensive strategies employed throughout the match. Fans were especially jubilant over the strong performance, which comes just in time for the Mountain West tournament, where the top five seeds receive byes, granting the Aztecs a favorable position heading into the postseason.
A Closer Look at Key Players
Senior guard Wayne McKinney III expressed his joy over the team’s performance, calling the night “picture perfect.” This sense of joy and accomplishment was echoed throughout the arena, as dedicated fans cheered on their team. The Aztecs, who have been on a rollercoaster of wins and losses in the past few weeks, looked to find consistent momentum leading into the tournament. As they move forward, the importance of teamwork and chemistry will be crucial in their ability to challenge stronger teams.
Looking Ahead
The Aztecs are set to carry this momentum into the Mountain West tournament, scheduled to start soon. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the team, with key contributions from their seniors, will fare against the competition. Nevada’s coach Steve Alford remained focused on the next opportunities for his team, whom they hope to see much improved in subsequent games.
| Player | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nick Boyd | 18 | 5 | 3 |
| Wayne McKinney III | 10 | 4 | 2 |
| BJ Davis | 12 | 3 | 1 |
| Miles Byrd | 15 | 6 | 4 |
Final Thoughts
As the Aztecs gear up for the Mountain West tournament, their recent victory over Nevada serves as both a confidence booster and a stepping stone. With the combination of experienced seniors and rising stars, fans are hopeful for a magical run during the tournament, and perhaps a deeper journey into the NCAA championship. This team shows that hard work, perseverance, and a supportive fanbase can truly make a difference in the outcome of their season.
