In Albuquerque, New Mexico, Nelly Junior Joseph had an outstanding performance, scoring 26 points and collecting 16 rebounds, propelling New Mexico to an 81-67 victory over UNLV. This win allowed New Mexico to wrap up the regular season of the Mountain West Conference in first place.
In addition to his scoring and rebounding, Joseph also contributed three blocks for the top-ranked Lobos, who now hold a 25-6 overall record and a 17-3 conference record. With this success, they secure a bye into the quarterfinals scheduled for Thursday. Donovan Dent complemented the team’s efforts with 20 points and six assists, while Tru Washington chipped in with 19 points.
For the Rebels, Jalen Hill was at the forefront, scoring 16 points. Teammates Jeremiah Cherry and Jaden Henley supported with 14 points each. UNLV, holding the sixth seed, will face the 11th-seeded Air Force in their opening game on Wednesday.
Early in the game, New Mexico snatched the lead just 40 seconds into the first half and maintained control throughout. Joseph’s 18 points in the first half were crucial in giving the Lobos a narrow 40-38 lead at the intermission. A decisive 7-0 run in the second half shifted a tight one-point game into a sizable six-point cushion for New Mexico. Washington was particularly effective in the second half, notching a team-high 14 points.
