Boise State survived a second-half fight in The Pit to edge New Mexico 78-73 last night. Dylan Andrews led the Broncos with a game-high 23 points, lifting his team to victory in a thrilling Mountain West matchup that saw six lead changes down the stretch.
🔥 Quick Facts
- Final Score: Boise State 78, New Mexico 73 on February 7, 2026
- Setting: The Pit in Albuquerque, NM with 2,055 fans in attendance
- Game-Time Leader: Luke Haupt of New Mexico scored 27 points but it wasn’t enough
- Key Difference: Boise State shot 100% from the free throw line (13-13) while controlling the second half
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Dylan Andrews proved why Boise State is one of the Mountain West‘s hottest teams right now. The Broncos guard connected on 9 of 12 field goals, including 5 three-pointers, while orchestrating the offense with 4 assists in just 31 minutes. His efficiency was stunning in an environment that demanded toughness. Pearson Carmichael added 16 points and 7 rebounds, providing the interior force the Broncos needed against New Mexico‘s aggressive defense.
The Broncos now sit at 14-9 overall and 6-6 in conference play. This victory marks another statement win for Coach Leon Rice‘s squad, which has found its rhythm late in the season. Boise State’s next challenge comes against UNLV on February 13 at home.
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Luke Haupt was relentless for the Lobos, scoring 27 points on 10 of 16 shooting and adding 4 assists. The New Mexico star nearly willed his team to victory, connecting on 3 three-pointers and converting all 4 free throws he attempted. Jake Hall contributed 13 points, but New Mexico couldn’t find consistent scoring beyond their two stars. Tomislav Buljan grabbed 9 rebounds, controlling the glass on both ends of the floor.
The loss drops New Mexico to 18-5 overall and 9-3 in the Mountain West, still fighting for tournament positioning. The Lobos will look to bounce back at home this weekend.
Second-Half Surge Decides Thriller at The Pit
| Team | 1H | 2H | Final |
| Boise State | 43 | 35 | 78 |
| New Mexico | 42 | 31 | 73 |
Boise State entered halftime trailing 42-43, a five-point disadvantage. However, the Broncos dominated the second half’s opening minutes, outscoring New Mexico 35-31 over the final 20 minutes. Drew Fielder chipped in 18 points with 5 three-pointers, providing crucial spacing that opened driving lanes for Andrews. The Broncos won the battle at the free throw line, shooting perfect from the stripe (13-13) while New Mexico managed 14 of 18.
“This has been another classic game in this series. Great action on both ends. Boise State clinging to a 74-69 lead with 7:37 to go.”
— B.J. Rains, CBS Sports Commentator
Ice in His Veins and Three-Point Touch
Andrews was virtually unstoppable when the game mattered most. With 11 minutes remaining and Boise State trailing 69-64, Andrews launched back-to-back three-pointers that shifted momentum completely. His shooting form was textbook, and his decision-making kept New Mexico defenders rotating constantly. Boise State finished with 15 made three-pointers, a season high, while New Mexico managed only 7 of 18 from distance.
The Mountain West Conference looks increasingly wide open heading into the final stretch. Boise State’s recent form suggests they could be dangerous in the postseason if Andrews continues playing at this level.
What Does This Victory Mean for Boise State’s Tournament Hopes?
This win proves Boise State can win in the toughest environments. The Pit is one of college basketball’s most intimidating venues, but the Broncos stayed composed when New Mexico made its second-half push. Andrews’ shooting and Carmichael’s rebounding were the difference makers. With five conference games remaining, Leon Rice’s squad is positioned for a top-four bye if they maintain this momentum.
Expect Boise State basketball to reclaim serious conversation as March approaches. National Championship brackets will need to account for a team capable of winning in pressure situations.
Sources
- ESPN – Live game coverage and official box score for Boise State vs. New Mexico on February 7, 2026
- CBS Sports – Real-time game tracking, play-by-play commentary, and post-game analysis
- Boise State Athletics – Official athletic department records and team statistics

Michael Brown is a seasoned sports journalist bringing years of experience covering professional athletics and sporting culture. With a keen eye for breaking stories and player dynamics, this veteran journalist delivers in-depth analysis and exclusive insights from the world’s biggest sporting events. His passion for the game shines through in every story, keeping fans connected to the action both on and off the field.

