When the Big 12 lost two schools, there was lots of speculation on who, if anyone, the conference would find to replace the Colorado Buffaloes and Nebraska Cornhuskers. A name that was thrown around, but never really seriously considered, was the New Mexico Lobos.
Geographically it would make sense, as New Mexico borders Texas, and hoops-wise it makes sense, as the Lobos were a 4-seed in the tournament last season, but without getting into too many reasons, they will never be invited.
The Lobos (10-2) have already defeated the Buffs, and up next in their short Big 12 barnstorming are the Texas Tech Red Raiders.
Texas Tech needs a jump start this season, and defeating the Lobos is one way to start. Already hearing talk about the end of the Pat Knight regime in Lubbock, the Red Raiders seemingly have the tools in Mike Singletary, Brad Reese, John Roberson, Robert Lewandowski and David Tairu to win, but can't seem to get the pieces together.
They rank 38th in the country in scoring at 78 ppg, but are shooting just 44.5% from the field, ranking them 141st nationally.
The Lobos on the other hand are shooting a blistering 48.6% from the field, good for 22nd in the NCAA. Led by Dairese Gary, Kendall Williams, Phillip McDonald and Alex Kirk, New Mexico won't necessarily push the ball, but will play hard-nosed defense and win while scoring in the mid 70s.
For Tech to win they finally need for Roberson and Singletary to understand they are seniors and to step up to the plate. Otherwise, conference commissioner Dan Bebe may ask for the teams to switch conferences.
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