Albuquerque, NM – Both the University of New Mexico men’s and women’s basketball teams are projected to finish fifth in the Mountain West Conference, according to preseason polls released this week. The announcements signal the start of anticipation for the upcoming 2025 seasons, offering an early glimpse into the competitive landscape of the conference.
The men’s basketball team secured the fifth spot with 182 points in the preseason poll, trailing San Diego State (312 points), Utah State (275), Boise State (260), and Grand Canyon (224). For the Lobos, senior guard deyton Albury represents the team’s sole selection to the All-Mountain west preseason team. Albury, a transfer from Utah State, brings the only Mountain West playing experience to the New Mexico roster, having averaged 9.2 points per game during his previous season in the league.
The women’s team also landed at fifth place, garnering 207 points. UNLV topped the women’s poll with 281 points, followed by San Diego State (240), Colorado State (236), and boise State (210). These preseason rankings provide a benchmark for both Lobo programs as they prepare to compete within the Mountain West Conference, with regular season play expected to begin in November.