By Lindsey Boyd (@lindsboyd3)
Not only is San Jose State caught in the midst of its largest conference losing streak since joining the Mountain West in 2013, but it will face New Mexico next.
Last time the two met, the Lobos (11-12, 6-4 MW) handed the Spartans (3-18, 0-10 MW) one of their biggest losses of the season, 80-47, partially off the Spartans’ 20 turnovers.
SJSU hasn’t been throwing the ball away as much the last few home games, but still it sits last in the conference with an average of 17.3 turnovers a game.
One thing that has not changed?
Head coach Jean Prioleau’s main focus to hone in on the team’s defensive strengths. The team is No. 3 in the Mountain West for rebounding on defense and could have a chance to hang in the game if it shoots efficiently.
New Mexico is ranked lower in field goal percentage and 3-point percentage than SJSU, but tends to take more shots.
The Lobos challenged the Spartans on defense in the last meeting on Jan. 6, holding them to a low 31.8 percent from the field. SJSU, however, has been increasing its shooting percentage since.
Redshirt freshman Keith Fisher not only leads the Spartans in rebounding, but he’s an offensive asset for the team alongside junior Ryan Welage. Fisher has hit double figures in five of the past six games and can help draw fouls down low.
Tipoff is at 3 p.m. in the Event Center.