Event Preview
Overview
On Saturday, December 6, 2025, the New Mexico Lobos will host the Santa Clara Broncos at The Pit in Albuquerque, New Mexico. This game marks the first of a home-and-home series between the two programs, with the return matchup scheduled for the 2026-27 season at Santa Clara's Leavey Center. The Lobos lead the all-time series 5-3, with the most recent meeting being a 93-76 victory for New Mexico at the Jack Jones Classic in Henderson, Nevada, during the 2023-24 season. (golobos.com)
Season Snapshot
New Mexico Lobos
The Lobos enter this game with a 6-2 record, riding a three-game winning streak that began with an 80-78 victory over Mississippi State. Under the leadership of first-year head coach Eric Olen, New Mexico is averaging 80.3 points per game while allowing 68.8 points. The team leads the Mountain West Conference with 29.9 three-point attempts per game, converting 10.0 per game. Tomislav Buljan is averaging a double-double with 11.7 points and 11.1 rebounds per game, ranking 11th nationally in rebounds. Jake Hall leads the team in scoring at 14.4 points per game. (santaclarabroncos.com)
Santa Clara Broncos
The Broncos boast an 8-1 record, marking their best start since the 2019-20 season. They are coming off a 90-80 victory over Utah Tech, where six players scored in double figures. Santa Clara is averaging 80.9 points per game while allowing 64.4 points. The team leads the West Coast Conference with 6.1 blocks per game, ranking 12th nationally. Christian Hammond leads the Broncos with 16.6 points per game, while Allen Graves contributes 9.4 points and 6.2 rebounds per game. (santaclarabroncos.com)
Recent Form
New Mexico Lobos
The Lobos have demonstrated strong offensive performance, particularly from beyond the arc, leading the Mountain West Conference in three-point attempts and conversions. Their recent victories, including the close win over Mississippi State, highlight their resilience and scoring capability.
Santa Clara Broncos
The Broncos have been efficient offensively, with a balanced scoring attack and a notable ability to distribute the ball, averaging 18.4 assists per game. Their defensive prowess, especially in shot-blocking, has been a key factor in their success.
Talking Points
- Coaching Matchup: First-year head coach Eric Olen leads New Mexico against Santa Clara's seasoned coaching staff.
- Three-Point Shooting: Both teams are prolific from beyond the arc; which team's shooting will prevail?
- Defensive Strategies: Santa Clara's shot-blocking versus New Mexico's perimeter defense.
- Player Matchups: The battle between New Mexico's Jake Hall and Santa Clara's Christian Hammond.
- Home Court Advantage: Can New Mexico capitalize on playing at The Pit?
Players to Watch
- Jake Hall (New Mexico): Leading scorer with 14.4 points per game; key to the Lobos' offense.
- Christian Hammond (Santa Clara): Top scorer for the Broncos with 16.6 points per game; central to their scoring efforts.
- Tomislav Buljan (New Mexico): Averaging a double-double with 11.7 points and 11.1 rebounds; crucial for rebounding and inside presence.
- Allen Graves (Santa Clara): Contributing 9.4 points and 6.2 rebounds per game; adds depth to the Broncos' lineup.
- Antonio Chol (New Mexico): Provides defensive presence with 0.9 blocks per game; important for rim protection.
Key Matchups & Storylines
- Perimeter Shooting vs. Interior Defense: New Mexico's three-point shooting against Santa Clara's shot-blocking ability.
- Scoring Leaders: The impact of Jake Hall and Christian Hammond on their respective teams' offenses.
- Coaching Strategies: How Eric Olen's first-year approach contrasts with Santa Clara's established system.
Fun Facts
- The Pit is renowned for its challenging atmosphere; New Mexico has a strong home-court advantage.
- Santa Clara's 6.1 blocks per game lead the WCC and rank 12th nationally.
- The Broncos' 8-1 start is their best since the 2019-20 season.
- New Mexico's 80.3 points per game lead the Mountain West Conference.
Things to Chirp About
- "Can New Mexico's three-point shooting outpace Santa Clara's shot-blocking?"
- "Is Jake Hall the key to the Lobos' offense tonight?"
- "Will Santa Clara's defense hold up in The Pit?"
- "How will first-year coach Eric Olen handle the pressure against a seasoned team?"
Prediction
This matchup promises an exciting clash between New Mexico's high-powered offense and Santa Clara's formidable defense. While The Pit provides a significant home-court advantage for the Lobos, the Broncos' balanced attack and shot-blocking prowess make them formidable opponents. The game is expected to be closely contested, with both teams having the potential to secure a victory.