30 Facts About New Mexico State Basketball

The Origins of New Mexico State Basketball

New Mexico State Basketball has a rich history filled with remarkable achievements and interesting stories. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this storied program.

1. New Mexico State University (NMSU) established its basketball program in 1904. This makes it one of the oldest college basketball programs in the United States.

2. The team is known as the Aggies. This nickname reflects the university's agricultural roots.

3. The Aggies' first recorded game was against El Paso High School. They won that game 21-9, marking the beginning of a long and successful history.

Key Milestones and Achievements

The Aggies have had many notable moments throughout their history. Here are some key milestones and achievements that stand out.

4. NMSU made its first NCAA Tournament appearance in 1952. This was a significant achievement for the program and set the stage for future successes.

5. The Aggies reached the Final Four in 1970. Coached by Lou Henson, they finished third in the nation, which remains their best performance in the NCAA Tournament.

6. Lou Henson is the winningest coach in NMSU history. He amassed 289 wins during his tenure from 1966 to 1975 and again from 1997 to 2005.

Notable Players

Over the years, many talented players have donned the Aggies' jersey. Here are some of the most notable ones.

7. Sam Lacey is one of the most famous Aggies. He played for NMSU from 1967 to 1970 and went on to have a successful NBA career.

8. Jimmy Collins was another standout player. He was a key member of the 1970 Final Four team and later became a successful coach.

9. Pascal Siakam, a more recent star, played for the Aggies from 2014 to 2016. He was drafted by the Toronto Raptors and won an NBA Championship in 2019.

Home Court and Fan Base

The Aggies' home court and their passionate fan base play a crucial role in their success.

10. The Pan American Center is the home of NMSU basketball. This arena, which opened in 1968, can seat over 12,000 fans.

11. The Aggies have a dedicated fan base known as the "Panamaniacs." These fans are known for their enthusiastic support and help create a formidable home-court advantage.

12. NMSU has a strong home record. Over the years, the Aggies have won a significant majority of their home games, thanks in part to their passionate fans.

Rivalries and Competitions

Rivalries add excitement and intensity to the basketball season. NMSU has several notable rivalries.

13. The Aggies' biggest rival is the University of New Mexico Lobos. The games between these two teams are known as the "Rio Grande Rivalry."

14. Another significant rivalry is with the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP) Miners. These games are highly competitive and eagerly anticipated by fans.

15. NMSU has won multiple conference championships. The Aggies have claimed titles in various conferences, including the Western Athletic Conference (WAC).

Coaching Legacy

The coaching staff has played a pivotal role in shaping the program's success.

16. Neil McCarthy is another notable coach in NMSU history. He led the Aggies from 1985 to 1997 and guided them to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances.

17. Reggie Theus, a former NBA player, coached the Aggies from 2005 to 2007. He led the team to an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2007.

18. Chris Jans has been the head coach since 2017. Under his leadership, the Aggies have continued to be a competitive force in college basketball.

Recent Successes

In recent years, the Aggies have continued to build on their storied history with impressive performances.

19. NMSU has made multiple NCAA Tournament appearances in the 2010s. This includes a streak of appearances from 2012 to 2019.

20. The Aggies have dominated the WAC in recent years. They have won several regular-season and tournament championships in the conference.

21. NMSU has produced several professional players in recent years. This includes players who have gone on to play in the NBA and overseas.

Community and Cultural Impact

The impact of NMSU basketball extends beyond the court, influencing the community and culture.

22. The Aggies are a source of pride for the Las Cruces community. The team's success brings the community together and boosts local morale.

23. NMSU basketball games are major events in Las Cruces. They draw large crowds and generate significant local interest.

24. The program has a strong tradition of community service. Players and coaches often participate in local events and charitable activities.

Memorable Moments

Throughout its history, NMSU basketball has had many memorable moments that fans still talk about today.

25. The 1970 Final Four run is one of the most memorable moments. The Aggies' performance that year remains a highlight in the program's history.

26. Beating the University of Arizona in the 1993 NCAA Tournament was a huge upset. This victory is still celebrated by Aggies fans.

27. The 2019 WAC Tournament Championship game was a thriller. NMSU won in dramatic fashion, securing another NCAA Tournament berth.

Future Prospects

Looking ahead, the future of NMSU basketball looks bright with promising prospects and continued success.

28. The Aggies have a strong recruiting pipeline. They continue to attract talented players from across the country and internationally.

29. NMSU is committed to maintaining a competitive program. Investments in facilities and resources ensure the team remains a force in college basketball.

30. The Aggies aim to return to the Final Four. With a strong foundation and dedicated support, this goal remains within reach.

Final Whistle on New Mexico State Basketball

New Mexico State Basketball has a rich history filled with remarkable achievements and memorable moments. From their NCAA tournament appearances to producing NBA talents, the Aggies have left an indelible mark on college basketball. Their dedicated fan base, known for their passion and loyalty, adds to the vibrant atmosphere at games. The team's commitment to excellence and continuous improvement keeps them competitive year after year. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer, there's always something exciting about following the Aggies. Their story is one of perseverance, talent, and community spirit. As they continue to build on their legacy, New Mexico State Basketball remains a source of pride for the university and its supporters. Keep an eye on the Aggies; their journey is far from over, and the best may be yet to come.