At 10pm EST on ESPN 3, San Diego State men’s basketball defeated Air Force 81-50, in its 13th consecutive home victory against the Falcons.
San Diego State shot 50 percent over the first 20 minutes. The Aztecs (13-8, 5-5) hit their first five shots, each by a different player.
The Aztecs had four players in double figures, led by Jalen McDaniels’ 16 points. The Aztecs went 11 of 26 from 3-point range. San Diego State also blocked 10 shots compared to one for Air Force.
Air Force shot just over 32.8% including 6 of 27 from the arc. Lavelle Scottie made 8-of-13 shots adding 16 points, but the rest of the team was 12 for 48.
While the Aztecs welcomed the win at home, it was hardly a statement game, given Air Force is second to last in Mountain West standings.
The game put wind in the Aztecs’ sails, in a season where new coach Brian Dutcher has taken the reins, and the historically dominant men’s basketball team has struggled to maintain a winning record.
“They intimidated us with their size,” Falcons coach Dave Pilipovich said. Air Force is now 8-13, 2-7 Mountain West.
San Diego State suits up against Fresno State on Tuesday night, February 6th, 11pm EST.