New Mexico vs Michigan State How to Watch
- Date: Sunday, March 23
- Game Time: 8:40 p.m. ET
- Venue:
- How to Watch (TV): TNT
The NCAA Tournament’s second round will feature a thrilling clash between the No. 10 New Mexico Lobos and No. 2 Michigan State Spartans on March 23, 2025.
With a Sweet 16 berth on the line, this game contrasts styles. Michigan State’s approach is disciplined and defensive-minded, while New Mexico’s style is fast-paced and high-energy.
So, all eyes turn to the Rocket Arena in Cleveland, Ohio, where the No. 2 seed Michigan State Spartans will face the No. 10 seed New Mexico Lobos on March 23, 2025.
The second-round matchup features a thrilling contest between two teams with contrasting styles. New Mexico’s Richard Pitino’s Lobos face off against Michigan State’s Tom Izzo’s Spartans.
Michigan State Spartans: A Legacy of Excellence
Under the seasoned guidance of Coach Tom Izzo, the Spartans have extended their NCAA Tournament streak to 27 consecutive appearances. This is the longest streak in Big Ten history. It is also tied for the second-longest in NCAA history.
Their 27-6 record, including a 17-3 mark in conference play, reflects a season of resilience and tactical prowess.
Michigan State’s defense has been particularly formidable. It ranks second nationally in opponent three-point percentage (27.9%) and within the top 50 for opponent points per game (67.9%).
Offensively, they are led by guard Jaden Akins, who averages 12.7 points per game and forward Jaxon Kohler, who contributes 7.6 rebounds per game.
New Mexico Lobos: The Cinderella Story
The Mountain West’s No. 10 seed New Mexico Lobos secured a 75-66 victory over No. 7 seed Marquette on Friday in Cleveland, fueled by a late surge.
The win marks the Lobos’ first NCAA Tournament triumph since 2012. It sets up a Sunday matchup against second-seeded Michigan State.
The Lobos from Albuquerque, New Mexico have had a historic run. They have not won a first-round game for 13 years. It’s been a delight to the Lobo fans.
Marquette briefly grabbed a 58-57 lead with 6:44 left. The Mountain West regular-season champion Lobos then answered with a decisive 10-0 run.
Donovan Dent, the Mountain West Player of the Year, led the way with 21 points. He shot 7-of-17 and added six assists.
The Lobos, coached by Richard Pitino, have enthusiastically embraced the role of underdogs.
Their first-round victory over Marquette, a 75-66 triumph, showcased their defensive tenacity and efficient scoring.
They shot 47% from the field. They had an impressive 86% from the free-throw line. They capitalized on turnovers to gain a decisive edge.
This year, the Lobos are fueled by the play making of dynamic guard Donovan Dent, who averages 20.6 points and 6.4 assists per game.
His dynamic play has been pivotal for New Mexico, especially in transition. The team ranks among the nation’s fastest paced, averaging 81.2 points per game.d
This New Mexico thrives on an up-tempo, transition-focused offense. Donovan Dent excels at the point. Nelly Jr Joseph plays effectively in the paint.
Inside, forward 6-10, 240 Nelly Junior Joseph provides a strong presence, contributing a double-double with 14.0 points and 11.2 rebounds per game, he has been a force this year for the Lobos.
The Lobos, one of the nation’s fastest teams, average 81.2 points per game and will aim to push the pace against a disciplined Spartan defense.
photo courtesy Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal
Keys to the Game
Controlling the tempo will be crucial for Michigan State. The Spartans will leverage their defensive strengths to disrupt New Mexico’s fast-paced offense and force them into half-court sets.
Limiting Dent’s opportunities in transition will be a top priority. Contesting shots on the perimeter is also crucial, much like Marquette attempted to do.
The Golden Eagles had over four of their top defenders constantly covering Dent. Despite this, Dent still ended up with over 21 points. He also had six assists.
The Lobos, on the other hand, will look to push the pace and exploit the Spartans’ defensive lapses.
Their ability to force turnovers and convert them into points could be a deciding factor. Additionally, maintaining their high free-throw shooting percentage will be essential in a tightly contested game.
“Terrific win for our program. We’ve got a lot of respect for Marquette. Shaka (Smart) does an amazing job,” UNM coach Richard Pitino said. “I just thought at the end of the game, we buckled down and got stops. We stopped turning the ball over.
Photo Courtesy Eric Draper/AP
“Donnie really, really — he was struggling a little bit, and we just tried to keep him positive, and he made some huge plays down the stretch. Tru (Washington) was phenomenal. Mustapha (Amzil) had some big rebounds. It was just a team effort all around. Very grateful, very proud. We’ll get a little rest and get back at it tomorrow.”
The Lobos’ success this season has been fueled by key contributions from their bench. Role players have stepped up in pivotal moments for Coach Richard Pitino’s team.
Washington played a crucial role on both ends of the floor. He scored 12 points and grabbed six rebounds. He also tallied three steals. He helped contain All-American Kam Jones below his season average.
Tru Washington applies aggressive defensive pressure. His ability to force turnovers by stealing the ball is a big part of the Lobos’s success this year.
Amzil struggled with his shot, going 0-for-4. However, he impacted the game in other ways. He led the team with eight rebounds, three assists, and three steals.
photo courtesy Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal
Filip Borovicanin and C.J. Noland provided an offensive spark, combining for five first-half three-pointers in helping New Mexico maintain crucial momentum.
Borovicanin finished with eight points and five rebounds. Noland added 11 points. He hit three timely threes that helped the Lobos maintain momentum.
It’s indisputable that the Lobos’ length this year against opponents is a significant factor. This has been important in keeping the teams they play in check.
Photo Courtesy of Lansing State Journal
The Pitino Factor
Photo Courtesy of Sporting News
The coaching lineage adds an intriguing subplot to this matchup. Richard Pitino’s success with the Lobos comes alongside his father, Rick Pitino’s achievements with St. John’s.
This marks the first time a father-son duo has both won NCAA Tournament games in the same year.
This familial milestone adds a layer of narrative richness to an already compelling NCAA tournament.
Rick Pitino and Richard Pitino won their conference Championships in the Big East and the Mountain West.
photo courtesy of new york daily news
It’s just a good, feel-good story for an amazing family in NCAA college basketball.
Both the New York and Albuquerque fan bases are proud of their head coaches’ success this year. The successes of the Johnnies and Lobos have made them especially proud.
Anticipated Outcome
Michigan State enters the game as the favorite. However, the Lobos have shown unpredictability. This unpredictability makes March Madness so captivating.
The Spartans’ experience and defensive discipline will face a challenge. They will contend with New Mexico’s high-octane offense. Additionally, they must counter the stellar play of Donovan Dent.
Fans can expect a game. Strategic adjustments will be pivotal. Individual performances will determine who advances to the Sweet 16.
Pitino Family Makes March Madness History with New Mexico’s Win
March Madness Showdown: No. 10 New Mexico Lobos vs. No. 2 Michigan State Spartans
New Mexico’s Cinderella Run
Under head coach Richard Pitino, the Lobos are coming off a stunning 75-66 upset over No. 7 Marquette.
Michigan State’s Experience and Defense
Tom Izzo’s tournament staple Spartans advanced after a convincing first-round win.
Michigan State boasts one of the country’s best defenses, ranking 2nd nationally in opponent three-point percentage (27.9%) and allowing just 67.9 points per game.
Guard Jaden Akins (12.7 PPG) and forward Jaxon Kohler (7.6 RPG) lead the charge, and the Spartans’ size and depth could pose problems for New Mexico’s undersized lineup.
photo courtesy Jeff Lange, Akron Beacon Journal
Keys to the Game
- Michigan State: Slow the game down, control the boards, and limit Dent’s transition opportunities.
- New Mexico: Speed up the tempo, force turnovers, and capitalize on free-throw opportunities.
Prediction: Can the Lobos Keep Dancing?
Michigan State enters as the favorite, but the Lobos’ confidence and momentum make them a serious threat.
If New Mexico can control the tempo and Donovan Dent delivers another electrifying performance, an upset is well within reach.
This matchup mirrors the classic biblical story of David and Goliath. In this scenario, #2 seed Spartans face #10 seed Lobos.
An unlikely teenage hero takes down a massive giant. The giant was a trained soldier in his army for the Philistines.
David didn’t focus on the overwhelming odds but relied on his faith and a well-placed stone.
Similarly, the Lobos have their shot at making history. The reward would be a trip to the Sweet 16. This trip would be a milestone that is monumental for the program. It would also be unforgettable for the seniors.
However, if the Spartans dictate the pace and enforce their defensive prowess, they’ll secure their place in the next round.
One thing is sure—this game will be a battle. March Madness magic is in full swing, and both teams are ready to leave it all on the court.
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