ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — In an electrifying matchup on Sunday, Tru Washington emerged as a key player, scoring 25 points and sinking a crucial 3-pointer in the final moments, leading the New Mexico Lobos to an 82-79 victory over Utah State. This victory continued New Mexico’s impressive winning streak, bringing it to eight games.

With just 56 seconds remaining in the game, Washington made one of two free throws that gave his team a narrow 77-76 advantage. Moments later, he extended the lead to four points by nailing a 3-pointer with only nine seconds left on the clock. In a dramatic response, Utah State’s Mason Falslev knocked down a 3-pointer to bring his team within one point just four seconds before the final whistle. However, New Mexico’s Donovan Dent was cool under pressure, hitting two free throws with one second left, which pushed the lead to three. In the end, Ian Martinez’s desperate 3-point attempt at the buzzer for Utah State fell short.

In addition to Washington’s standout performance, he also contributed five rebounds and four steals for the Lobos, who now sport a record of 22-4 overall and 14-1 in the Mountain West Conference. Dent had a strong showing as well, posting 23 points and blocking three shots, while Nelly Junior Joseph added 15 points.

For the Aggies, Falslev was formidable, finishing the game with 27 points, six rebounds, and five steals. Martinez supported the effort with 21 points, while Drake Allen had a solid all-around game, scoring 13 points along with 10 assists and three steals. The first half saw Dent score 11 points, but New Mexico went into halftime trailing 42-36, only to see Washington take control in the second half, amassing 19 points.