Game Details
- Matchup: Sam Houston Bearkats (22–11, 14–8 CUSA) at New Mexico Lobos (23–10, 14–8 MWC)
- Date & Time: Wednesday, 9:00 PM EDT (7:00 PM MDT)
- Radio: Lobo Radio Network Rob Portnoy/Hunter Green
- Venue: The Pit — Powered by Nusenda Albuquerque, NM
- Event: National Invitation Tournament (NIT)
- Streaming: ESPN+
Overview
The Lobos begin their 2026 NIT journey Wednesday evening at The Pit – Powered by Nusenda, where they’ll the host Sam Houston BearKats. The game is scheduled for a 7:00 p.m. tip and will be broadcast on ESPN+ and the Lobo Radio Network.
New Mexico enters as the No. 1 seed after a strong season that included a run to the Mountain West Tournament semifinals, where it lost to San Diego State by two points. 64-62 in Las Vegas.
The Lobos finished the season with a 23-10 (13-8 MWC record)
and have been one of the most balanced teams in the league, led by standout freshman Jake Hall—named Mountain West Freshman of the Year—and All-Mountain West forward Tomislav Buljan.
New Mexico head coach Eric Olen has done an outstanding job in his first season, especially considering the complete overhaul of the program—from a new coaching staff to an entirely new roster and system.
Limited by early injuries to Chris Howell and Milos Vicentic, Olen has essentially gone pretty much eight deep rotation all season—and that core group has responded, delivering on expectations and bringing the spark back to Lobo Nation at The Pit.
The Lobos record against non-conference opponents is 9-2 and ranks 3rd in the Mountain West Conference in defense, allowing 71 points per game while holding opponents to 42% shooting.
Sam Houston arrives in Albuquerque after a successful campaign this season. The Bearkats finished near the top of Conference USA, achieving a 14–8 league record and earning a postseason bid following a strong turnaround season under head coach Chris Mudge.
With both teams having similar conference success and postseason motivation, this matchup is one of the most intriguing games in the NIT opening round.
Photo Courtesy of UNM Athletics
Program & Tournament Context
This marks New Mexico’s 21st appearance in the NIT and its first return since 2023. The program has a notable history in the tournament, including a runner-up finish in 1964, a semifinal appearance in 1990, and multiple quarterfinal runs.
Sam Houston makes its third NIT appearance. Last season, the Bearkats moved past the first round, showing the program’s recent progress.
The winner of this matchup will move on to face the winner of Utah Valley vs. George Washington in the second round, scheduled for March 21 or 22. If New Mexico advances and hosts again, The Pit could once again become a major postseason stage.
Team Outlooks
New Mexico Lobos
Photo Courtesy of UNM Athletics
The Lobos excel with efficient scoring, strong depth, and consistent defense. Offensively, they shoot 46.0% from the field, outperforming Sam Houston’s defensive allowed percentage.
Defensively, New Mexico ranks third in the Mountain West, allowing only 70.8 points per game and frequently turning its defense into fast breaks and second-chance points.
At home, New Mexico is particularly dangerous. The Pit remains one of the toughest venues in college basketball, and that edge intensifies in the postseason.
New Mexico’s ability to control the tempo, dominate the glass, and generate balanced scoring makes them a tough matchup—especially in front of their home crowd.
Sam Houston Bearkats
Photo Courtesy of Sam Houston Athletics
Sam Houston’s primary strength is its high-powered offense, averaging 82.2 points per game, so this should really be a great game when one considers how good the Lobo defense has been this year.
The Bearkats emphasize a fast pace, precise ball movement, and the ability to generate quick open shots. Their offensive versatility allows them to adapt to various defensive schemes and challenge opponents early.
Kashie Natt is averaging 10.7 points per game, 8.3 rebounds, and 2.1 steals for the BearKats, while teammate Jacob Coleman is averaging 2.1 made 3-pointers in the last 10 games.
The BearKats average 80.1 points, 34 rebounds, 14.7 assists, 6.9 steals, and 2.8 blocks per game, and are shooting 46% from the field.
Their season has been one of the most impressive turnarounds in Conference USA. After a tough year, head coach Chris Mudge led the Bearkats to second place in the league, despite being ranked near the bottom in the preseason.
Sam Houston secured a conference tournament victory over New Mexico State before losing in the semifinals to the eventual champion, Kennesaw State 79-73
That experience, combined with their offensive firepower, makes them a formidable postseason opponent for Eric Olen’s Lobos.
However, their struggles in close games (1–2 in contests decided by three points or fewer) might be tested again in a hostile away environment.
Photo Courtesy of UNM Athletics
Recent Form
New Mexico (Last 10 Games)
- Record: 5–5
- Averaging 79.8 points, 32.8 rebounds, 15.1 assists
- Shooting 46.9% from the field
- Allowing 75.4 points per game
Sam Houston (Last 10 Games)
- Record: 6–4
- Averaging 80.1 points, 34.0 rebounds, 14.7 assists
- Shooting 46.0% from the field
- Allowing 76.4 points per game
What to Watch For
Offense vs. Defense
Sam Houston’s high-powered offense faces one of the Mountain West’s more disciplined defenses. This contrast will probably shape the game.
Tempo Battle
If Sam Houston controls the pace, they can keep the game close. If New Mexico dictates the tempo, especially at home, the Lobos will have a clear advantage.
Rebounding & Interior Play
JT Rock and Tomislav Buljan could control the paint, giving New Mexico second-chance opportunities and limiting Sam Houston’s possessions.
Experience vs. Momentum
New Mexico offers tournament experience and a home-court edge, while Sam Houston comes in confident after a strong turnaround season.
Prediction
Sam Houston has the offensive firepower and confidence to keep this competitive, especially if they control the tempo early.
However, New Mexico’s defense, rebounding ability, and the energy of The Pit should ultimately take control—especially in the second half.
Prediction: New Mexico 85, Sam Houston 80
