LAS CRUCES, N.M. — The New Mexico State men’s basketball program hosted an intra-squad scrimmage Oct. 30 at the Pan American Center. It was a traditional two 20-minute half game with referees, and featured Team Black versus Team Gray. Team Black secured a 73-72 victory. This event was called “Dia de los Dunks.”
Team Black’s starters consisted of Elijah Elliott, Chris Terrell, Jayland Randall, Julius Mims and Augustine Ekwe. Omarr Smith and Amarco Doyle came off the bench.
Team Gray’s starters were Gabe Pickens, Anthony Wrzeszcz, Jemel Jones, Jae’Coby Osborne and Cyr Malonga. Christian Villegas, Teysean Eaglestaff and Kyrese Mullen were the reserves.
Team Black was dialed in right from the beginning, as they took a 10-0 lead just two minutes into the game. They eventually went up 18-4, after getting multiple defensive stops and scores.
Team Gray closed the gap to nine at halftime, trailing 38-29. After a slow start in the second half, they began to make some noise and made it a one score game with 10 minutes left in the scrimmage. They maintained this level of play the rest of the night, but it was not enough.
Official statistics were not kept, but many players put together solid performances. Randall knocked down multiple three-pointers and jump shots, showing signs of what he did at the University of Southern Indiana last season, where he averaged 15 points per game.
Osborne, who is one of just two returners, finished around the rim with ease and even hit a corner three at the start of the game. His shooting from behind the arc is something he struggled with last season, so this was proof of improvement.
Jones, who earned Preseason All-Conference USA honors, scored in a variety of ways. This included attacking the rim, making mid-range jump shots and converting triples.
Both Malonga and Ekwe played well at the center position, with their footwork leading to easy points. They both finished strong around the rim against each other and shot free throws at a high percentage.
Free throws were something that looked much improved from last year. Guards, forwards and posts shot them with confidence and comfortability.
The Aggies will be seen for the first time this season battling it out on the court at 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 4, as they take on Division II opponent Adams State University at home. According to ESPN Analytics, NMSU has a 99% chance to win the season opener.
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