New Mexico coach Eric Olen has a distinctive strategy that has contributed to his impressive coaching record, evidenced by his standing as the coach with the fifth-best win percentage in Division I basketball since the start of last season. His Lobos have demonstrated defensive prowess, currently ranking 36th nationally, while his previous team, the UC San Diego Tritons, ranked 30th last season according to KenPom.com. The main focus of Olen’s defensive approach is to protect the paint, which presents a unique challenge as his team often leaves the perimeter more open. This season, only two teams allow a higher rate of 3-point shot attempts than the Lobos.
This presents a significant concern as New Mexico prepares to face Colorado State, a team that excels at shooting 3-pointers. With a record of 10-4 and 1-2 in the Mountain West, CSU is not only the most prolific 3-point shooting team in the conference but also ranks second nationally in shooting percentage from beyond the arc at an impressive 42.1%. The Lobos, currently at 11-3 and 2-1 in conference play, face potential difficulties due to their defensive scheme, particularly as CSU’s entire roster boasts strong 3-point shooting capabilities.
Olen acknowledges that this matchup is particularly troublesome. “On paper, they’re a bad matchup,” he remarked. Six Rams have attempted at least 30 3-pointers this season, with their shooting percentages against Division I competition ranging significantly above the national average of 33.6%. The shooting heat map analysis indicates that Colorado State shoots proficiently from almost every area of the court, posing a real challenge to New Mexico’s defensive plan.
In preparing for this game, Olen emphasized the need for adaptability in defensive execution. “It’s a question of can we execute our scheme at a high enough level to get enough stops, versus trying to adjust to take away some of their strengths,” he explained. This adaptability is crucial as the Lobos strategize to counteract the Rams’ strong shooting abilities.
Historically, New Mexico leads the rivalry series against Colorado State 82-53, although the Rams have a slight edge, 28-26, in games played at Moby Arena. As the Rams prepare to depart for the Pac-12 next season, this match could be one of the last for the longstanding rivals, though both coaches are open to continuing the rivalry in nonconference play. CSU coach Ali Farokhmanesh expressed a desire to maintain the matchups and emphasized the significance of playing at New Mexico’s iconic Pit.
As they step onto the court, both teams have much to prove, with New Mexico looking to assert its defensive strengths against a formidable shooting opponent. There is anticipation surrounding this matchup, not just for the hard-fought rivalry that has characterized their history, but for the potential to create exciting moments as both teams push forward in their respective seasons.