Utah State secured an impressive 86-66 victory against New Mexico on January 28, 2026, with standout performance from guard Mason Falslev, who contributed 19 points. Falslev showcased his shooting skills by hitting 6 of 9 attempts from the field, including 4 of 5 from beyond the arc, while also converting 3 of 4 free throws. This win improved Utah State’s season record to 19-3 and solidified their position at 10-2 in the Mountain West Conference.
The game took place in Albuquerque, New Mexico, where Michael Collins Jr. added 14 points for the Aggies, shooting 5 for 12 overall and 3 for 5 from the free-throw line. Karson Templin also made a notable contribution, finishing with 12 points from 4 of 7 shooting, including 1 of 4 from three-point range.
Game Highlights and Key Performers
New Mexico’s Tomislav Buljan led the Lobos with 17 points and secured seven rebounds, while Tajavis Miller and Jake Hall contributed 11 and 10 points, respectively. Despite a solid effort from New Mexico, they were unable to maintain control after falling behind in the latter stages of the first half.
Utah State took charge of the game with 41 seconds left in the first half and never looked back. With a narrow lead of 36-33 at halftime, they quickly expanded their advantage. A decisive 7-0 run in the second half propelled the Aggies from a 13-point lead to a commanding 20-point margin. Falslev continued to shine, leading the team with 13 points in the second half, ultimately helping Utah State outscore New Mexico by 17 points in the final period.
Implications for the Season
This victory not only enhances Utah State’s standing in the conference but also demonstrates their potential as strong contenders moving forward. Both teams now look ahead to their upcoming matchups, with Utah State aiming to maintain momentum and New Mexico seeking to rebound from the setback.
As the season progresses, the performance of players like Falslev will be crucial for Utah State’s aspirations in the Mountain West Conference, making their next games essential viewing for fans and analysts alike.
