After a 13-19 inaugural season under head coach Richard Pitino, the Lobos started the 2023 season 14-0 and entered the AP Top 25. New Mexico was a projected middle-of-the-pack team in the Mountain West, but Pitino and company have other plans.
Jamal Mashburn Jr. (19.3 ppg) is one of three Lobos to average over 15 points per game. New Mexico (82.7 ppg) is a top-15 scoring team and that could push the Lobos closer to a 30-win season and potential March Madness berth.
Intriguing Facts About the New Mexico Lobos
The Lobos’ name, which means “wolves” in Spanish, is derived from the state’s nickname, “Land of Enchantment.” This name embodies the team’s spirit of tenacity and unity, as they strive to conquer the challenges that come their way.
One fascinating aspect of the Lobos’ history is their propensity for recruiting international talent. Over the years, the team has attracted players from countries such as Australia, Canada, and even the Republic of Georgia. This global diversity not only adds a unique dimension to the team but also showcases their commitment to finding the best talent from around the world.
When it comes to home court advantage, few arenas can match the intensity and atmosphere of “The Pit.” Officially known as Dreamstyle Arena, it’s a place where opposing teams often find themselves in a high-pressure cauldron. The roaring crowd, iconic design, and rich history of The Pit make it a true fortress for the Lobos.
In 1962, the Lobos set a then-NCAA record by scoring 27 points in a single minute during a game against Idaho State. This offensive explosion remains a cherished memory for Lobos fans and serves as a testament to the team’s ability to ignite the scoreboard in a flash.
Consistency is a hallmark of the Lobos’ success. They have made numerous NCAA tournament appearances, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level of college basketball year after year. This consistency reflects the program’s commitment to excellence and its standing as a perennial contender in the NCAA.
New Mexico Lobos [year] Odds
Odds to Win
Championship
+10000
Odds to Win
Conference
+160
Odds to Win Season
+125
Seasons Win
– Over
-Under
New Mexico Lobos Latest News
The Historical Tapestry of the New Mexico Lobos
The roots of Lobos basketball trace back to the early 20th century when the program was in its infancy. However, it wasn’t until the mid-1950s that the team started gaining national recognition under the leadership of coach Bob King. King’s tenure marked the beginning of a transformational era for the Lobos, setting the stage for their rise to prominence in the college basketball world.
The Golden Era – The Bob King Years
Bob King, a visionary coach known for his innovative strategies, guided the Lobos to their first NCAA tournament appearance in 1964. His up-tempo style of play and emphasis on suffocating defense set the tone for the Lobos’ future success. King’s coaching philosophy not only focused on winning but also on developing well-rounded individuals who would excel both on and off the court.
During the King era, players like Mel Daniels and Ira Harge emerged as stars, leading the Lobos to multiple NCAA tournament appearances. The pinnacle of this period was in 1968 when the Lobos reached the Final Four, a feat that remains one of the program’s most significant achievements. Their journey to the Final Four captured the hearts of Lobos fans and left an indelible mark on the program’s history.
Legendary Figures in New Mexico Lobos History
The Lobos have been graced by the presence of legendary figures who have left an indelible mark on the program. From coaches like Bob King, who laid the foundation for success, to players like Danny Granger, who became NBA stars, these individuals have helped shape the identity of the team and inspire future generations of Lobos.
A Game to Remember
One game that stands out in Lobos history is the 1996 NCAA tournament match against Syracuse. In an epic showdown, the Lobos, led by head coach Dave Bliss and star player Kenny Thomas, triumphed over the Orange, advancing to the Sweet Sixteen. The game showcased the Lobos’ resilience and determination, etching their name in NCAA tournament lore and providing a memorable moment for fans to cherish.
New Mexico Lobos [year] Schedule
Regular Season
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Week 1 | Date: Mon 06/11/2023 | Opponent: Texas Southern Tigers | Result: W 92-55 |
| Week 1 | Date: Thu 09/11/2023 | Opponent: Saint Mary’s Gaels | Result: L 58-72 |
| Week 2 | Date: Thu 16/11/2023 | Opponent: Texas-Arlington Mavericks | Result: W 82-80 |
| Week 3 | Date: Tue 21/11/2023 | Opponent: Toledo Rockets | Result: W 92-84 |
| Week 3 | Date: Wed 22/11/2023 | Opponent: Rice Owls | Result: W 90-56 |
| Week 3 | Date: Fri 24/11/2023 | Opponent: Pepperdine Waves | Result: W 90-71 |
| Week 4 | Date: Wed 29/11/2023 | Opponent: Louisiana Tech Bulldogs | Result: W 74-65 |
| Week 4 | Date: Sat 02/12/2023 | Opponent: New Mexico St. Aggies | Result: W 106-62 |
| Week 5 | Date: Wed 06/12/2023 | Opponent: UC Santa Barbara Gauchos | Result: W 84-61 |
| Week 5 | Date: Sat 09/12/2023 | Opponent: Santa Clara Broncos | Result: W 93-76 |
| Week 6 | Date: Fri 15/12/2023 | Opponent: New Mexico St. Aggies | Result: W 73-72 |
| Week 7 | Date: Wed 20/12/2023 | Opponent: UC Irvine Anteaters | Result: W 78-65 |
| Week 8 | Date: Fri 29/12/2023 | Opponent: Eastern New Mexico Greyhounds | Result: W 87-54 |
| Week 9 | Date: Tue 02/01/2024 | Opponent: Colorado St. Rams | Result: L 68-76 |
| Week 9 | Date: Sat 06/01/2024 | Opponent: Wyoming Cowboys | Result: W 77-60 |
| Week 10 | Date: Tue 09/01/2024 | Opponent: UNLV Rebels | Result: L 73-83 |
| Week 10 | Date: Sat 13/01/2024 | Opponent: San Diego St. Aztecs | Result: W 88-70 |
| Week 11 | Date: Tue 16/01/2024 | Opponent: Utah St. Aggies | Result: W 99-86 |
| Week 11 | Date: Sat 20/01/2024 | Opponent: Air Force Falcons | Result: W 85-66 |
| Week 12 | Date: Wed 24/01/2024 | Opponent: San Jose St. Spartans | Result: W 95-75 |
| Week 12 | Date: Sun 28/01/2024 | Opponent: Nevada Wolf Pack | Result: W 89-55 |
| Week 13 | Date: Wed 31/01/2024 | Opponent: Boise St. Broncos | Result: L 78-86 |
| Week 14 | Date: Tue 06/02/2024 | Opponent: Wyoming Cowboys | Result: W 91-73 |
| Week 14 | Date: Sat 10/02/2024 | Opponent: UNLV Rebels | Result: L 77-80 |
| Week 15 | Date: Tue 13/02/2024 | Opponent: Nevada Wolf Pack | Result: W 83-82 |
| Week 15 | Date: Fri 16/02/2024 | Opponent: San Diego St. Aztecs | Result: L 70-81 |
| Week 16 | Date: Wed 21/02/2024 | Opponent: Colorado St. Rams | Result: W 68-66 |
| Week 16 | Date: Sat 24/02/2024 | Opponent: Air Force Falcons | Result: L 77-78 |
| Week 17 | Date: Sat 02/03/2024 | Opponent: Boise St. Broncos | Result: L 79-89 |
| Week 18 | Date: Wed 06/03/2024 | Opponent: Fresno St. Bulldogs | Result: W 79-58 |
| Week 18 | Date: Sat 09/03/2024 | Opponent: Utah St. Aggies | Result: L 85-87 |
Post Season
| Week | Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Wed 13/03/2024 | Opponent: Air Force Falcons | Result: W 82-56 |
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Thu 14/03/2024 | Opponent: Boise St. Broncos | Result: W 76-66 |
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Fri 15/03/2024 | Opponent: Colorado St. Rams | Result: W 74-61 |
| Conf. Tournament | Date: Sat 16/03/2024 | Opponent: San Diego St. Aztecs | Result: W 68-61 |
| NCAA Tournament | Date: Fri 22/03/2024 | Opponent: Clemson Tigers | Result: L 56-77 |
Home of New Mexico Lobos: The Pit
“The Pit,” officially known as Dreamstyle Arena, is the beating heart of Lobos basketball. With a seating capacity of over 15,000, it’s a coliseum where fans create an electrifying atmosphere that strikes fear into the hearts of visiting teams. The Pit has seen it all, from thrilling victories to heart-stopping upsets, and its history is intertwined with the legacy of the Lobos.
Find the latest NCAA Football Picks for Free
References: