Tag: Leon Rice

2024 NCAA Tournament: Boise State Basketball-A First Look at the Colorado Buffaloes

2024 NCAA Tournament: Boise State Basketball-A First Look at the Colorado Buffaloes Who are the Buffaloes? Contact/Follow @HardwoodTalk & @MWCwire Boise State draws First Four matchup in Dayton against Pac-12 foe Colorado. The Mountain West …

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2024 NCAA Tournament: Boise State Basketball-A First Look at the Colorado Buffaloes

Who are the Buffaloes?

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Boise State draws First Four matchup in Dayton against Pac-12 foe Colorado.

The Mountain West Conference received a record setting six bids to the NCAA Tournament on Selection Sunday. Though after hammering each other twice a week, every week since January. The six teams that had their tickets punched, were given what many consider to be lower than deserved seeds.

For a conference that KenPom.com ($) has ranked as the seventh best in the entire country. With an extremely comfy margin between their Adjusted Efficiency ranking of +10.39 & the next best’s, the Atlantic 10 at +5.13. Even giving the Pac-12 a run for their money and their number 6th ranking of +10.94. Never the less, one of the Mountain West’s bigger seeding causalities on Selection Sunday was the Boise State Broncos.

After Leon Rice led his team to a second place tie with Nevada and a 22-10 (13-5, 2nd in the MWC) regular season record, top-30 NET Ranking (w/six Quad 1 wins) & a top-40 KenPom ranking.

It’s very frustrating, as the Broncos now have to earn their spot in the Field of 64. In a battle for the No. 10 seed against the Colorado Buffaloes, scheduled for Wednesday March 20th, in Dayton, OH with a 5:10 PM MT tip-off. The winner of that First Four contest goes on to face the Florida Gators as the No. 7 seed in the South region.

Who Are The Buffaloes

The Colorado Buffaloes have an extremely long history as members of the Big 12, dating all the way back to post-World War II, when the conference was known as the Big 7.

Possibly known for their gridiron dominance from the early eighties to mid-nineties under all-time great Buffaloes coach Bill McCartney. Who led them to nine bowl appearances in 13 seasons, not to mention the schools lone football National Championship in 1990.

On the hardwood though, Colorado hasn’t made a deep run since before the end of the Vietnam Conflict. Since, the program has seen five different head coaches come and gone.

With only two NCAA Tournament appearances to show for it, in over four decades. To say the program was a bit of an after thought in the Big 8 as well as out West is an understatement. But change was coming in Boulder, plenty of it.

As an announced move to what was then known as the Pac-10 was made public in 2010. The move also brought the program’s winningest head coach with them, in first year head man Tad Boyle.

Coach

Boyle took over at Colorado in their last season in the Big 12. Taking over from former NBA Head Coach Jeff Bzdelik, who left when he accepted his “dream job” at Wake Forrest in 2010.

Boyle had just led his hometown Northern Colorado Bears to a second place finish in the Big Sky behind a Damian Lillard led Weber State team. A mark celebrated after aiding Northern Colorado in their transition to the D-I ranks, beginning with a 4-24 season just three seasons prior.

After arriving in Boulder in 2010, he led the Buffaloes to a 5th place finish in their final season in the Big 12, their best in five years. He would then lead them to three straight NCAA Tournament appearances. For a grand total of six in fourteen seasons.

Their most recent trip coming in 2021, as a No. 5 seed, their highest in the tournament’s most modern iteration. A trip that is something fans in Boulder are coming to expect out of their basketball program. As they should, with a coach like Boyle in charge. With his local ties to the area, it’s easy to buy in to what the Buffaloes are selling every season.

Star Players

Jr. G-KJ Simpson (6’2, 190)

Stats: 19.6 PPG, 5.7 RPG, 4.9 APG & 1.6 SPG in 34 Games, 34 Starts

Sr. F-Tristan Da Silva (6’9, 220)

Stats: 15.8 PPG, 5.2 RPG, 2.4 APG & 1.1 SPG in 31 Games, 31 Starts

Fr. F-Cody Williams (6’8, 190)

Stats: 12.6 PPG, 3.3 RPG & 1.7 APG in 21 Games, 18 Starts

How Did They Get Here

Colorado was brought into the Pac-12 promise lands by Boyle almost immediately. But with conference realignment charged turmoil surrounding their home last year with the departures of UCLA, USC, Oregon & Washington to the Big Ten starting the summer of 2024, the Buffaloes had to act. Announcing a move back to the Big 12 last July, Tad Boyle will now be tasked with a move back to the conference where he cut his high major teeth in. So enjoying their last ride in the Pac-12 as fans everywhere know it, they went to work.

Using a strong yet short, 9-2 run through non-conference play with a pair of impressive wins over Richmond & Miami (FL) to prepare for their last run at a Pac-12 title. The ensuing 20-game conference slate would prove challenging.

As the Buffaloes battled their way to a 3rd place finish & 24-10 (13-7, 3rd in Pac-12) regular season record while earning the No. 3 seed in the conference tournament in Las Vegas.

Colorado earned a opening round bye & was slated to take on No. 6 seeded Utah in the quarterfinals on Thursday. They had split the regular season series with the Utes, but managed to post a solid 72-58 win over their conference foes to advance to the semifinals. Thanks to a great scoring performance from their trio of KJ Simpson, Eddie Lampkin Jr. & Tristan da Silva.

Next came Washington State on Friday, another team whom they had split their conference series with. The Cougars though, proved to be a formidable opponent for the Buffaloes. As Tad Boyle’s group narrowly advanced with a 58-52 win over Washington State, thanks again to an offensive effort spearheaded by Simpson with a game high 16 points.

That took them all the way to the championship game on Saturday night, against No. 4 seed Oregon. A game lost in the post, in part due to a flawless performance from Oregon big man N’Faly Dante who had 25 points off of 12-12 shooting from the floor.

With that Colorado was sent home without any hardware, though their fate as an at-large bid might have just been sealed in Vegas. As the Buffaloes were announced as a First Four selection on Sunday, pegged to due battle for a spot in the Field of 64 against a Cinderella-esque Bronco team on Wednesday.

Biggest Wins

Thursday January 18th, Home vs. Oregon 86-70

Saturday February 24th, Home vs. Utah 89-65

Friday March 15th, Neutral vs. Washington State 58-52

The Metrics

NET Ranking:  25th

KenPom:  26th

Larry Muniz covers college basketball as a writer for Mountain West Wire and WAC Hoops Digest. Also as a co-host of the college basketball podcast “Hoops Talk W/Jay & Larry”. He is also a USWBA Member.

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Boise State Secures 82-50 Home Win Over San Jose State

Game Recap: Boise State 82, San Jose State 50 Boise State Secures 82-50 Home Win Over San Jose State Contact/Follow @HardwoodTalk & @MWCwire The Broncos take care of business in lopsided 32-point win over Spartans. The conference title race is as …

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 Game Recap: Boise State 82, San Jose State 50

Boise State Secures 82-50 Home Win Over San Jose State

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The Broncos take care of business in lopsided 32-point win over Spartans.

The conference title race is as close as it’s ever been. With only four games left in the regular season on average, losing for teams who currently find themselves in the top-half of the standings could be a death sentence for their at-large hopes.

So, as what could be the game that decides that aforementioned title race come a few weeks from now taking place about 292 miles southeast of the ExtraMile Arena. Those hoping Boise State would have a hiccup against San Jose State on Tuesday night were watching. A tall task given the Broncos are were 21-0 against the Spartans in Boise heading into this one. While those hoping they tightened their hold on a top-3 conference finish with a blow out win were too.

Either way, somebody was going to end their night disappointed and Leon Rice’s group was on a mission to keep those sentiments outside of Boise.

The last time these two programs met in San Jose earlier this year the Spartan’s gave Boise State quite a scare. Behind a 30 point outing from MJ Amey Jr., Tim Mile’s group had the Broncos on the ropes heading into halftime. Down 40-33, their visitors went on to outscore them 45-29 to secure the 78-69 victory. Tuesday night’s matchup had a different feel entirely.

Even though the Broncos were double-digit favorites coming into this one, that didn’t mean the Spartans weren’t going to come out swinging. A Trey Anderson three opened things up for San Jose State. While back to back Tyson Degenhart layups gave the Broncos their first lead of the game at 4-3.

After a Myron Amey Jr. layup put Tim Miles’ group back on top. That would be the last time they held the lead for the rest of the game. An ensuing 7-4 run kept the home squad out front.

Boise State began to break away with a 6-0 run, Trey Anderson would respond with a jumper of his own. That would be the last time the Spartans would score over the next six minutes. The Broncos went on a 17-2 run over that next six minutes of play. Which really decimated what little momentum the Spartans had before a Tibet Gorener three pointer ended their scoring drought.

As impressive as that sounds, it wouldn’t end there. It would only be a part of a larger 24-3 run. Everyone showed out offensively for the Broncos. The seldom played freshman RJ Keene threw his name in the mix with five straight points of his own in just six minutes of play.

For the Spartans the shooting nightmare couldn’t come sooner. As they found themselves down by twenty points (33-13) with 2:51 left to go in the half. Amey Jr. would put a single point on the scoreboard after going 1-2 from the charity stripe, but his squad could not make a field goal no matter where they tried on the floor.

Boise State wouldn’t pile it on much more after that. Heading into halftime up 38-16 over their visitors. San Jose State didn’t attempt a single free throw until the final three minutes of the half. They also shot a horrid 6-27 (22.2%) from the floor, mostly in part due to their shot selection. Taking a whopping 14 three pointers, which was 51% of their total shots.

Even though it wasn’t one of the most efficient offensive performances ever. Boise State didn’t need anything remotely close to efficient to display their dominance. Shooting 52% from the floor, finding most of their success inside the arc (10-16, 62.5%).

Leading the charge for the Broncos in the first half was Tyson Degenhart with 9 points (2-3 FGs, 5-6 FTs). With O’Mar Stanley not far behind him with 8 points of his own to go along with 6 rebounds. Leon Rice had eight different players score a field goal in the first twenty minutes.

The Broncos didn’t take their foot off the gas as they emerged from halftime either. A quick 5-0 run felt like a replay of the first-half until the Spartans responded with a quick 5-0 run of their own. Both sides would go on to treat fans inside ExtraMile Arena to a three point barrage I’ve rarely seen in college basketball. As San Jose State would shoot 2-3 from deep as the Broncos answered. Making three of their next four attempts in that same time.

Even as the Spartans found some offensive rhythm, Boise State stayed hot enough to effectively make that run irrelevant to the overall score. Both squads began to cool off after that, with a few field goals on both sides to keep the scoreboard operator involved.

Boise State found themselves up 57-32 heading into a media timeout with 11:57 left in the game. A quick 5-0 run capped by yet another Tibet Gorener three pointer shrunk the lead back to twenty points. O’Mar Stanley would make a second chance layup off of an offensive board on the other end, his 3rd of the game. That sparked a 7-0 run only to be muddled with an extracurricular tie up after the whistle.

That resulted in a double technical and saw two players on each side dealt technical fouls (which canceled each other out). Myron Amey Jr. would end another San Jose State scoring drought with a made field goal & 1 free throw within about thirty seconds of play.

As both coaches began to utilize their bench with a little less than five minutes to go, Roddie Anderson III received an and one to put Boise State up 70-45. Each side would continue to exchange a few buckets as the Broncos would let time expire to secure their 82-50 win at home.

“Obviously it’s good for metrics but you can’t take these kinds of wins for granted in the Mountain West,” said Chibuzo Agbo. “Really good teams can still lose these kinds of games on any given night in this conference so it felt good to get it done.”

San Jose State looked like a JV team in the first-half, which couldn’t be overcome. No matter how much more impressive their 34 point second half was. They ended the night having shot 10-28 (35.7%) from deep, thanks in part to Myron Amey Jr. (3-7 3FGs) & Tibet Gorener (4-9 3FGs, 12 points).

Boise State on the other hand had a very efficient & well rounded offensive night. Shooting 29-54 (53.7%) from the floor & 10-25 (40%) from three-point range & 14-17 (82.4%) from the charity stripe.

All night it was a team effort, with ten different Bronco’s seeing time on the floor & all scoring at least one field goal. Four starters posted double-figures, in Stanley (10 points), Agbo (14 points), Rice (14 points) & Degenhart (15 points).

As impressive of a night it was for Leon Rice’s group offensively, they did just as good of a job defensively. Forcing 14 turnovers, logging 7 steals as a team & only sending the Spartans to the line 5 times total. Not to mention playing a part in San Jose State only having five players score a point.

Player Spotlights

Boise State F-Tyson Degenhart

Stat line: 15 points, 8 rebounds, 3 steals & 4 assists on 4-9 shooting (44.4%) from the floor & 7-8 (87.2%) from the line in 30 minutes of action

Boise State’s 32-point point win on Tuesday night was definitely a team effort. And I don’t think Degenhart’s 15 points would have necessarily been the line between win or loss. But he turned in a fine performance nonetheless and should be highlighted for it.

He had his way offensively down low against San Jose State. And was a part of a frontcourt defensive effort that made the paint a no go zone for Spartans all night.

San Jose State G–Myron Amey Jr.

Stat line: 21 points, 4 rebounds, 3 steals & 2 blocks on 8-15 shooting (53.3%) from the floor & 3-7 (42.8%) from the line in 32 minutes of action

Amey Jr. has been a reliable scoring threat for Tim Miles and Co all season. Taking the leap many onlookers of the conference thought he was capable of and tasked with replacing former MWC POY Omari Moore. Even though the Spartans have fallen down the conference standings this season, Amey Jr.’s offensive production isn’t the reason why.

His 21 point performance Tuesday night was his 23rd double-digit outing this season & his 8th 20+ point performance of the season. Amey Jr. also made his impact on the other side the ball as well, forcing five recordable turnovers & being involved in plenty of others.

Two Takeaways:

  • San Jose State is obviously at the tail end of a rebuilding year. The Spartans are without their best frontcourt player in Robert Vaihola, who could have provided a scoring presence in the paint. And have relied on plenty of freshman & a few transfers to make meaningful impacts in their first season’s in San Jose. The ceiling for this team at the moment is snagging a win (or two) in their final remaining four games of the season. In hopes of building some winning momentum before the conference tournament in Las Vegas.
  • Boise State were the favorites by far coming into this home matchup against a program from the Mountain West’s cellar at the moment. Yes, any team can win any given night still. So team’s need to stay focused & execute in very winnable games like this. The Broncos did just that and in doing so, sit alone in second place in the conference just 0.5 games behind league leader Utah State.

Next Up:

The Broncos begin a two game road trip on Saturday against a sneakily dangerous Wyoming team in Laramie. The Cowboys have done their share of giant slaying this conference season, so Boise State shouldn’t take them lightly, especially inside the Arena-Auditorium.

That game tips off at 5:30 PM MT on February 24th and can be seen on the Mountain West Network.

While the Spartans head back home to prepare to host San Diego State on Friday February 23rd. The Aztecs are coming off of a tough loss to league leaders Utah State Tuesday night but are one of the always dangerous Mountain West teams year in & year out.

That game tips off at 7:00 PM PST and can be seen on FS1 as the lone Mountain West game of the night.

Larry Muniz covers college basketball as a writer for Mountain West Wire and WAC Hoops Digest. Also as a co-host of the college basketball podcast “Hoops Talk W/Jay & Larry”. He is also a USWBA Member.

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No. 19 New Mexico Fall To Boise State 86-78 Inside the Pit

Game Recap: Boise State 86, No. 19 New Mexico 78 New Mexico receives first home loss of the season to Broncos. Contact/Follow @HardwoodTalk & @MWCwire Boise State travels to Albuquerque to hand No. 19 New Mexico their first home loss of the season. …

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 Game Recap: Boise State 86, No. 19 New Mexico 78

New Mexico receives first home loss of the season to Broncos.

Contact/Follow @HardwoodTalk & @MWCwire

Boise State travels to Albuquerque to hand No. 19 New Mexico their first home loss of the season.

Albuquerque, NM–The Mountain West has turned into the bridge between high major and mid-major basketball. With the conference consistently ranked just behind or inside the coveted six high major conferences on KenPom.com in recent years.

With that jump in metric respect comes what fans and media around the conference like to call, the Mountain West Gauntlet. In short, it means that any team on any given night could fall. And taking a brief look the conference season thus far is all the proof you’ll need.

But, that high stakes basketball certainly gives way to entertaining and must watch action around the conference week in and week out. Take Tuesday night’s late night clash between the No. 19 New Mexico Lobos & Boise State Broncos.

Both squads were not immune to that aforementioned gauntlet as conference play begun. Richard Pitino’s Lobos began with a 1-2 record while Leon Rice’s Broncos have some high quality wins to go along with some less than stellar losses.

The Broncos have won four times inside the Pit, most recently back in 2022. But maybe more interesting, the last time Boise State faced a ranked New Mexico team in the Pit was back in 2013. Yes Leon Rice was the coach back then as well, so he’s familiar with the territory more than most.

Though with the Lobos coming into this match ready to defend an undefeated record on their home court and being renowned as one of the hottest teams in the country, fans were in for a treat.

The Lobos opened things up like they have done all January, with high energy, hustle & a zoned in focus. That gave them an early 10-2 lead over the Broncos and warranted a timeout from Leon Rice. Boise State responded with five straight points out of that timeout to silence the Pit crowd for just a moment.

The Broncos used that momentum to trade buckets with their hosts for the next five minutes or so. Mustapha Amzil came off of the bench with some instant offense.

With Coach Rice’s group making the adjustment to battle with their hosts down low where they have a deep array of bigs to choose from. It worked as the Broncos took their first lead of the game in the 9:49 minute mark with a Jace Whiting layup in a wide open lane.

They would go on a 6-0 run to further extend their lead in a ever so quiet Pit. The Broncos would shoot just 3-10 from deep but 8-10 down low during that stretch.

A Donovan Dent three pointer reignited the Lobo offense and cut the deficit down to one with just over five minutes of play in the half. Both squads would once again trade buckets to finish out the half. To the tune of a 41-38 Bronco lead. Thanks to their solid interior offense in the middle of the half and Max Rice’s three pointers.

The second-half began in similar fashion. A Broncos squad that was looking to do battle in the paint. The Lobos regained the lead just two minutes into the second half, going up 45-43 after a JT Toppin three pointer.

Both sides would continue to exchange buckets, in three point form, layups and free throws. The offense was everywhere on both sides and these two programs looked like one of the more even matchups in the Mountain West.

The Broncos were reluctant to give up their lead and found necessary buckets to maintain it. The only problem, Donovan Dent. The Lobo sophomore had his way with both Roddie Anderson III & Jace Whiting. Making drive after drive to keep the Lobos winning hopes alive.

Jamal Mashburn Jr. came off the bench to give Dent a much needed breather. And right off of the bench he sank a game tying three pointer to make things even at 67 a piece with about seven minutes on the game clock.

The Broncos answered with a Max Rice three and O’Mar Stanley field goal to regain their lead. A formula that treated them well all night. It continued to work all the way until the final buzzer.

It was the Lobos first loss inside the storied Pit this season. One fans and media alike saw coming eventually, but it still hurts regardless of the mental preparation. Boise State gave Leon Rice his fifth win inside the Pit during his tenure.

“Max Rice just continues to hurt us, O’Mar Stanley was such a great addition from the portal for them.” mentioned Richard Pitino “We got six days off until Wyoming, so we have to rebound & learn from this.”

Player Spotlights

Boise State G–Max Rice

Stat line: 35 points, 5 rebounds, 2 steals on 12-20 shooting from the floor, including 7-14 (50%) from deep in 38 minutes on the floor

Rice gave Boise State their advantage in the first half with his three point shooting. Posting 11 points on 4-8 shooting (3-7 from deep). It wasn’t pretty but it was a difference maker. He continued to do the same in the second half. While even taking his game inside with his mismatched defenders on his hip and scoring in the process.

Max Rice was fun to watch, hitting threes, dishing to bigs and making cuts when those bigs got in trouble. The rest of his Boise State teammates had their woes but when your hand is as hot as Rice’s was, that doesn’t matter. His 35 points were a new career high, his previous of 30 points was also against the Lobos in Boise.

New Mexico G-Donovan Dent

Stat line: 31 points, 2 assists on 12-18 from the floor in 36 minutes on the floor

Jaelen House went to the bench early with 2 fouls, 2 points & no field goals early. Mashburn Jr. wasn’t his usual self either with a little too much size defensively for Boise State. So, in comes Donovan Dent.

With fearless drives filled with acrobatic plays, speed & strength. Which paired well with his confidence and play making abilities for others. Without him Leon Rice’s group would have had double-digit lead going into half-time.

Dent had an absolute showing in the second-half. Scoring 18 points off of 7-9 shooting, all two point field goals by the way. Cutting through the Boise State defense like butter. Dent’s 31 points were his new career high.

Three Takeaways

  • These games are necessary to experience in order to build a championship team and NCAA Tournament team. New Mexico realized that tonight. That sometimes the other teams size will be a factor and shots won’t fall for you. But that’s when your stars need to step up or relinquish that title.
  • This was the first game I’ve seen an opponent take the Lobos out of their game. They usually, force turnovers, score in transition & play tough defense. Either on the interior or perimeter, not always at the same time. Boise State did their job by taking them out of this style of play early. Not to mention the points lacking from their normal group of scorers and contributors. You can’t win when House goes 1-15 from the floor, that’s not all on him, but that usually spells doom.
  • Boise State came into the Pit and luckily had Max Rice with them on the flight over. The other broncos played key roles but Rice had one of the hottest hands I’ve seen in the Pit in recent memory. They’ll head home with a quality win in one of the toughest places to do so in the country. I can’t say much more about their performance than, good job Max Rice. Let’s hope he can keep that rhythm for the remainder of conference play. If so, the Broncos have found their go to scorer and are that much more dangerous.
  • I wanted to add a surprise 4th takeaway for those who have made it this far. Anyone can win, any given night.

Next Up:

The Lobos take the time to get right and take the weekend off before their next game. New Mexico hasn’t had a one game week so far this season and after such a hot turnaround beginning in January, it’s much needed.

After that, they’ll head on the road to face an always problematic Wyoming Cowboys squad in Laramie. That contest tips off at 6:30 PM MT on Tuesday February 6th and can be seen on the Mountain West Network.

The Broncos return home with a quality win to host a dangerous Air Force team on Saturday. One with plenty of scorers capable of master mining the upset.

Every game counts in this year’s edition of the Mountain West, so a home game against a bottom-half conference foe is a must win for Leon Rice. That game tips off on Saturday February 3rd at 2:00 PM MT and can be watched on the Mountain West Network.

Larry Muniz covers college basketball as a writer for Mountain West Wire and WAC Hoops Digest. Also as a co-host of the college basketball podcast “Hoops Talk W/Jay & Larry”. He is also a USWBA Member.

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Max Rice’s Final Season At Boise State

What will Rice’s return mean for Boise State?

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Max Rice’s Final Season At Boise State

Looking Ahead To Rice’s Last Year Of Eligibility

Contact/Follow @Michaelbraydaly & @MWCwire

Can Boise State Make A Deep NCAA Tournament Run In Max Rice’s Final Season?

Following Boise State’s first-round exit from the NCAA Tournament, redshirt senior Max Rice announced in March that he would return to Boise State for his final year of eligibility in 2023.

Rice, who has been with the program since 2018, stepped into a leadership role last season. In the 2022-2023 season, Rice was the team’s second-leading scorer with 14.0 points-per-game.

He could have left the program to pursue a professional basketball career, but he decided to stay for one more chance to play meaningful basketball in the Mountain West Conference.

Returning for a 6th year will mean that Rice can play for his father, Leon Rice, for one last full season. This will give Rice a chance to reach the NCAA Tournament for a third-consecutive season.

The previous two seasons saw Boise State lose to Memphis and Northwestern in the opening round of the tournament. With Rice’s presence in the lineup, Boise State will try to win its first NCAA Tournament game. If the Broncos are going to have any postseason success, Rice will be a pivotal part of that run for Boise State.

With several key departures due to graduation, Rice will be an on-court leader in 2023. With another year of experience under his belt, Rice will be in a position to increase his scoring average from last season.

For next season, Boise State will also return Tyson Degenhart and Chibuzo Agbo. Rice, along with Degenhart and Agbo, will be expected to help the Broncos compete for a Mountain West championship. Boise State fans can anticipate seeing Rice as the primary scoring option throughout the season.

In 2022-2023, Rice had 16 games with at least 14 points. With the offense running through him in 2023, Rice will likely have more games with a minimum of 14 points scored.

Rice will be tasked with guiding the Broncos on a deep run in March 2024.

Is Leon Rice The Greatest Boise State Basketball Coach In History?

Where does Leon Rice rank in Boise State history as a head coach?

Is Leon Rice The Greatest Boise State Basketball Coach In History?

Rice Finished Up Another Successful season

Contact/Follow @Michaelbraydaly & @MWCwire

Where Does Leon Rice Rank In Boise State History?

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Boise State men’s basketball head coach Leon Rice finished his 13th season at the helm in Boise. Following a first-round exit to Northwestern in the NCAA Tournament, Boise State ended the 2022-2023 season with a 24-10 record.

This turned out to be another impressive season for Rice at Boise State. He earned his 10th season with 20 or more wins at Boise State. The last two seasons marked the first time Rice appeared in consecutive NCAA Tournaments. With a trip to the tournament this season, he recorded his fourth berth to the tournament as the Broncos head coach.

Rice, who became Boise State’s head coach in 2010, is the longest-tenured head coach in program history. He leads all Boise State coaches in wins, winning percentage, games coached, and tournament appearances.

In February 2021, Rice passed former Boise State head coach Bobby Dye as the all-time wins leader in program history. More than two seasons after he passed Dye, Rice has built a comfortable lead over his predecessors and future head coaches with 268 wins and counting.

If he can attain another 20-win season in 2024, Rice would be on pace to eclipse the 300-win mark before the end of the 2024-2025 regular season. With 300 wins at Boise State, Rice would be in a class all by himself.

Dye, Rod Jensen, and Greg Graham all had success with the Broncos. but Rice was able to win at a higher level than any other coach in program history.

When Rice took over as Boise State’s head coach, the Broncos were in their last season as a member of the Western Athletic Conference. Boise State joined the Mountain West Conference in his second season as a head coach and he was successful in the two conferences.

Based off of his success, Rice will be remembered as the greatest coach Boise State has ever seen.

2022 NCAA Tournament: Boise State vs. Memphis Preview, How To Watch & More

2022 NCAA Tournament: Boise State vs. Memphis Preview The Broncos look for their first ever NCAA Tournament win against the Tigers. Contact/Follow @HardwoodTalk & @MWCwire Boise State’s first round draw is a rematch against 2021 NIT foes the Memphis …

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2022 NCAA Tournament: Boise State vs. Memphis Preview

The Broncos look for their first ever NCAA Tournament win against the Tigers. 

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Boise State’s first round draw is a rematch against 2021 NIT foes the Memphis Tigers. 

WHO: Boise State 27-7 (18-3, 1st in the MWC) vs. Memphis 21-10 (13-5, 3rd in the AAC)

WHEN: Thursday 17th, 11:45 AM MT/12:45 PM CT

WHERE: Portland, OR-Moda Center

TV:  TNT

STREAM: FuboTV – Get a free trial & March Madness Live

SERIES RECORD: Memphis leads all-time series 1-0

The 2021-2022 season brought a lot of firsts to the Boise State men’s basketball team. The Bronco program experienced their First Mountain West Freshman of the Year, first outright regular season championship and first conference tournament championship.

As impressive as that is, they also broke plenty of records as well. Including, the highest win total in a single season (27), the most conference wins ever (15), the most consecutive wins (14) and the highest AP top-25 ranking to end the year at No. 23. Mountain West Coach of the Year Leon Rice has certainly reached what he calls milestones for the program.

And as of last Sunday they can add highest seed ever received in the NCAA Tournament as a No. 8 selection. With that announcement they were also given their opponent in No. 9 seed Memphis Tigers. They’ll face off Thursday morning in Portland, Oregon inside the Moda Center.

This Mountain West conference season has been rough for most teams and absolutely entertaining for fans and those covering it alike. It feels like it’s battle hardened the Broncos. And although Memphis has players like none Boise State have faced this season, this team has shown it can handle adversity with the best of them and certainly have the Tigers’ coaching staff at the drawing boards just the same.

Both squads looked primed for their returns to the NCAA Tournament. The Broncos return for the first time since 2015. Winning 24 of their last 27 games played and as previously mentioned, shattering expectations while doing it.

While the Tigers make their first appearance since 2014. Head coach Penny Hardaway’s first since taking over his alma mater in 2018 and likely just at the right time. This program certainly turned around a season that began with a top-15 preseason ranking. Then proceeded by them possibly missing out on the big dance all together (9-8 on Jan. 20th) and ultimately into an at-large bid.

The Tigers won 14 of their last 16 games to close out the season and finish as runner ups in the American Athletic Conference Tournament in Fort Worth, TX on Sunday. Although they let a close game slip away and turn into an 18 point loss (71-53) to the Houston Cougars. A team they beat twice prior in the regular season to help get them that at-large bid.

Last Time Out

These two programs had never met on the hardwood before their 2021 National Invitational Tournament matchup in Denton, Texas. Although hard-fought, the Broncos couldn’t overcome a poor first half of ball security which resulted in a 59-56 Tiger win. Boise State was led by Serbian forward Mladen Armus in that one, with a team high 12 points, 7 rebounds & 2 blocks. Missing from that game is reigning Mountain West Tournament MVP, who sat out with a shoulder injury that would end his season.

Memphis was led by two players who are no longer with the program. As both Boogie Ellis (USC) & D.J. Jeffries (Mississippi State) chipped in a team high 11 points. This helped push the Tigers past Boise State, Mountain West member Colorado State and eventually winning the championship game in Frisco all together.

Players to Watch:

F-Abu Kigab Boise State

After his shoulder injury Kigab’s postseason ended this time last year. The 6-7 Canadian forward decided to return for his extra season of eligibility. Since, he has helped lead this Boise State squad to their first outright conference championship and anchoring one of the toughest defenses in the country.

The combo forward posted regular season averages of 14.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG 2.4 APG & 1.3 SPG. Earning Second-Team All-Mountain West honors along with a spot on the All-Defensive Team. Kigab added to the resume as a member of the All-MWC Tournament team and it’s MVP.

Kigab is all over the floor and makes his money taking tough defensive assignments, attacking the glass and getting to the free throw line while doing it. As the team’s leading scorer he doesn’t need to have the most points every game for Boise State to win, his contributions pile up elsewhere for his team to survive and advance.

C-Jalen Duren Memphis

Upon reclassifying from the 2022 high school class to the 2021 class and committing to Penny Hardaway at Memphis back in. Setting off a chain reaction which caused also just reclassified phenom Emoni Bates to eventual commit to the Tigers. Before his departure from national high school powerhouse Montverde Academy as a five-star recruit who also led Team USA U16 squad and captured gold medals in 2019.

Since then, Bates struggled to live up his once No. 1 NBA Draft Pick potential. And like plenty before him have spent time off the court due to injury. Duren on the other hand has been Memphis’ best player. Leading the Tigers to the American Athletic Conference Tournament Championship.

Duren is a big man in every sense of the label. His season averages of 12.2 PPG, 8.1 RPG & 2.2 BPG shooting 62.6% from the field in just 25.3 MPG earned him 1st-Team All-AAC, All-Freshman Team and AAC Freshman of the Year honors. Standing 6-11, 250 pounds the Sharon Hill, PA native does it all. Posterizing defenders, running the floor, blocking shots and making it look very effortlessly while doing so.

Bronco big man Mladen Armus needs to stay out of foul trouble in this one, as not many other players on the roster can battle down low with the projected NBA Draft Lottery pick this summer effectively.

Keys to the Game

For Boise State: A solid defensive showing, Limit Turnovers and knock down the three

Neutralizing an opposing team’s best player doesn’t always mean victory. And I don’t see Mladen Armus having a giant affect on Duren’s totals. and honestly Memphis doesn’t necessarily need his points to win the game. The Tigers average 75.4 PPG as a team (top-60 in the nation), but Duren is their leading scorer at just 12.2 a game. This team has four players averaging 10+ points a game, five if you count guard Landers Nolley II (9.9 PPG).

So limiting Duren’s touches on the offensive end may be pointless if his teammates are knocking them down. Also last time these two met, the Broncos committed 15 turnovers, 13 in the first half. Which was honestly the difference maker in their 3 point loss last time out. If Boise State can avoid turning the ball over and knock down open shots, they keep their Cinderella hopes alive.

For Memphis: Attack the rim, Utilize size and depth & Force Bronco Turnovers

With as much size, athleticism and raw talent that this Memphis team has, the advantages are easy to speak to. The Tigers like the Broncos win when they hold their opponents to a certain amount of points a game. For Memphis it’s 69.0 PPG and for Boise State it’s closer to 60.0 PPG. Both programs also tend to outrebound their opponents and top it all off with top notch defenses.

Memphis just has to utilize that aforementioned size, athleticism and professional talent (not to mention depth) better than Boise State to seal their victory. Although possibly the biggest question mark of the first round may be the return of Emoni Bates. Which is still up in the air at the moment, but he did travel with the team and took part in the team’s open practice this week, so anything is possible.

Prediction: 

KenPom ($) has the Tigers as the one point favorites in this one. Now that is a testament to just how close this game is to call, especially being a No. 8 vs. No. 9 matchup. In fact Memphis is ranked 28th in the KenPom rankings with Boise State right behind them at 29th.

So, this game will simply come down to who brought their A game to the Rose City and maybe who wants it more. Sure Memphis has the professional talent, recruiting stars and depth to put this one away. But the Broncos have performed as a motivated and tenacious unit this season. With a continually progressing leader in Kigab to help lead them to the second round of the tournament for the first time ever.

With the right set of circumstances I think the Broncos pull this one off. I mean they’ve already compiled a list of firsts this season (see above), why not add another?

Boise State 70, Memphis 69

Next Up

The winner of this one will advance to the Round of 32 to face either championship favorites and region No. 1 seed Gonzaga or No. 16 seed Georgia State. The Bulldogs face the Panthers at right after the Broncos and Memphis at 1:15 PM PT on TNT.

A weekend game against Gonzaga will pit the Broncos head coach vs. his former employer and mentor Mark Few. Rice left Spokane in 2011 for Boise State, after chipping in more than a decade to help make Gonzaga what it is today.

“Leaving Gonzaga was hard,” said Rice “It was family and it was like a divorce when I left.”

That contest will take place on Saturday March 19th in Portland, OR with the remaining details TBA at the moment.

Larry Muniz covers college basketball as a writer for Mountain West Wire and WAC Hoops Digest. Also as a co-host of the college basketball podcast “Hoops Talk W/Jay & Larry”. He is also a USWBA Member.

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2022 Mountain West Tournament Championship: Boise State vs. San Diego State Preview, How To Watch & More

Boise State vs. San Diego State: Championship Game Preview San Diego State hoping to foil the Broncos net cutting ambitions. Contact/Follow @HardwoodTalk & @MWCwire Boise State is in unfamiliar territory, San Diego State is not. Both are primed and …

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Boise State vs. San Diego State: Championship Game Preview 

San Diego State hoping to foil the Broncos net cutting ambitions. 

Contact/Follow @HardwoodTalk & @MWCwire

Boise State is in unfamiliar territory, San Diego State is not. Both are primed and focused to secure the cherry on top of a super competitive Mountain West season. 

WHO: Boise State (26-7, 17-3 in the MWC) vs. San Diego state (23-7, 13-4 in the MWC)

WHEN: Saturday 12th, 4:00 PM MT, 3:00 PM PT

WHERE: Thomas & Mack Center

TV:  CBS

STREAM: FuboTV – Get a free trial

SERIES RECORD: San Diego State leads all time series 9-17

The Mountain West Regular Season Champions Boise State are striving for a sweep of conference hardware. With last night’s 68-61 semifinal win over the Wyoming Cowboys, the Broncos set a program record of 26 wins and will be heading to their first ever Mountain West Championship game in school history.

In their way is Mountain West championship game juggernaut San Diego State. Who are playing in their fifth consecutive tournament championship game on Saturday, having won six all time. Both squads have been playing for three days straight and have been challenged along the way.

Most recently the Broncos downed Wyoming in a hard fought 7 point win, led by Abu Kigab’s 22 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals Friday night. Kigab came out red hot, scoring the team’s first 15 points along with Serbian big man Mladen Armus who had his a double double with 16 points, 13 rebounds and 4 steals of his own.

San Diego State finds themselves in the championship game again after fending off the Fresno State Bulldogs in the quarterfinals behind 11 points from both Adam Seiko and Chad Baker-Mazara. And lastly last night in their 63-58 win over #2 seed Colorado State. In which Seiko chipped in 10 points and the Aztecs were led by Trey Pulliam, with a team high 11 points.

This Mountain West conference season has been rough for most teams and absolutely entertaining for fans and those covering it alike. Saturday’s championship matchup is the culmination to that great season, both teams would love to climb the ladder, but only one will.

Last Time Out

The Aztecs have dominated won 17 of the total 26 meetings between these two all time. With the majority of those meetings coming in after 2011 when the Broncos joined the Mountain West from the WAC. Boise State secured the sweep of the Aztecs this season.

Both games were displays of just how good each teach is defensively. As the Broncos secured a 42-37 win inside Viejas Arena on January 22nd. Then again a month later on February 22nd keeping the W at home in Boise with a 58-57 over the Aztecs inside ExtraMile Arena. Before this season though, coach Leon Rice and his program lost 6 straight to San Diego State.

Players to Watch:

F-Abu Kigab Boise State

After a shoulder injury that ended Kigab’s postseason early this time last year. The 6-7 Canadian forward decided to return for his extra season of eligibility. Since, he has helped lead this Boise State squad to their first outright conference championship and anchoring one of the toughest defenses in the country. The combo forward posted regular season averages of 14.8 PPG, 5.8 RPG 2.4 APG & 1.3 SPG. Earning Second-Team All-Mountain West honors along with a spot on the All-Defensive Team.

Kigab is all over the floor and makes his money taking tough defensive assignments, attacking the glass and getting to the free throw line while doing it. As the team’s leading scorer he doesn’t need to have the most points every game for Boise State to win, his contributions pile up elsewhere for his team to survive and advance.

G-Matt Bradley San Diego State

Upon transferring from Pac-12 member California last offseason. Opposing coaches in the conference knew the 6-4 220 guard from San Bernadino, California was going to be a problem, and he has lived up to the hype. As the offensive spearhead to this Aztec offense, Bradley posted averages of 17.0 PPG, 5.3 RPG, 2.7 APG & 1.1 SPG in 30 games (All Starts) this season. Earning the Mountain West Newcomer of the Year awards and a First Team All-Mountain West selection.

Bradley’s frame and strength and 6-4 allows him to take his game to multiple positions on the floor. A guard who can knock down the three pointer but also take the ball in and play with his back to the basket. And even though he is the lone double digit scorer for Brian Dutcher’s squad. San Diego State teams rely on top tier defense and high energy to get the job done.

Keys to the Game

For Boise State: Neutralize Matt Bradley, Secure the Basketball and knock down the three.

For San Diego State: Flash that Top-3 nationally ranked defense, Neutralize Abu Kigab, Crash the glass and avoid fouling

Prediction: Boise State 65, San Diego State 64

KenPom ($) has the Aztecs as 1 point favorites and given their recent run of form that makes total sense. In both Boise State wins this season, the Aztec’s biggest offensive weapon was also the kink in their armor. Bradley averaged just 9.5 PPG while shooting an abysmal 26.8% on 7-26 shots from the field. He also failed to get to the charity stripe and capitalize, going just 2-5 in their February loss and failing to shoot any free throws at all in January.

Now, Bradley did have a strong end to the season, averaging 23.8 PPG & 5.3 RPG. Shooting 50.8% from the field and 40.2% from deep. In tournament play he is struggling once again, averaging 6.0 PPG and shooting 28.6%. The Aztecs need him to score to be the difference maker and to find his rhythm for their March Madness run in the coming weeks.

Next Up

The winner of this one will cut down the nets inside The Thomas & Mack Center, receive the conference’s automatic bid and wait to hear their seed tomorrow on Selection Sunday.

Tomorrow’s NCAA Men’s basketball Championship selection show will have Mountain West fans around the country tuned in and eyes glued. As an four-bids are expected to be called. It won’t break the record of five, but it is a huge step in the right direction for the conference.

Larry Muniz covers college basketball as a writer for Mountain West Wire and WAC Hoops Digest. Also as a co-host of the college basketball podcast “Hoops Talk W/Jay & Larry”. He is also a USWBA Member.

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2022 Mountain West Tournament: Boise State vs. Wyoming Preview, How To Watch & More

Boise State vs. Wyoming: Game Preview Wyoming hoping to foil the Broncos net cutting ambitions. Contact/Follow @HardwoodTalk & @MWCwire Boise State pushing for a Mountain West title sweep, the Wyoming Cowboys WHO: Boise State (25-7, 16-3 in the MWC) …

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Boise State vs. Wyoming: Game Preview 

Wyoming hoping to foil the Broncos net cutting ambitions.

Contact/Follow @HardwoodTalk & @MWCwire

Boise State pushing for a Mountain West title sweep, the Wyoming Cowboys 

WHO: Boise State (25-7, 16-3 in the MWC) vs. Wyoming (13-17, 6-12 in the MWC)

WHEN: Friday March 11th, 7:30 PM MT, 6:30 PM PT

WHERE: Thomas & Mack Center

TV:  CBS Sports Network

STREAM: FuboTV – Get a free trial

Odds: KenPom has Boise State as 2 point favorites

SERIES RECORD: Nevada leads all time series 25-10

The Mountain West Regular Season Champions Boise State are striving for a sweep of conference hardware. After getting much needed rest after a first round bye, the Broncos are ready to fend off a Nevada in the first quarterfinal matchup of the day.

The Broncos ended the regular season with a 71-68 loss against Colorado State in Fort Collins. The Rams were Mountain West Coach of the Year Leon Rice’s kryptonite this season. Being the only team to sweep the Broncos in conference play. Prior to that loss they were on a five game winning streak, including wins against San Diego State and Utah State at home.

Nevada ended the regular season on a four game losing streak. But they managed to overcome a persistent New Mexico squad, to beat the lobos 79-72 in yesterday’s lunch time first round matchup. Coach Alford’s squad was led by redshirt junior guard Grant Sherfield, who poured in 27 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and dished out 5 assists.

2022 Mountain West Tournament Day 2 Results, Highlights

“I thought we did a lot of good things in the paint,” said Nevada head coach Steve Alford. “I thought we handled the backboard the way we wanted to handle it. I thought we made things hard on (Jaelen) House and (Jamal) Mashburn, which is a key. And I really thought we guarded, the first 16 minutes of the second half, I thought was the difference.”

Last Time Out

The last meeting between these two longtime conference mates (Big Sky, MWC & WAC) was on March 1st. The Wolf Pack traveled north to fall 73-67 inside ExtraMile Arena. Led by transfer forward Kenan Blackshear who had a team high 16 points. And thwarted by Abu Kigab who had a game high 23 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists & 3 steals. Boise State swept Nevada this season, which was the first time the Broncos were able to do so since 2016.

Players to Watch:

G-Grant Sherfield-Nevada

Sheffield is an absolute bucket getter in every sense of the phrase. Although inconsistent at times with his shooting touch, the 6-2 combo guard is averaging 18.9 PPG, 6.4 APG & 4.3 RPG. His season long totals earned him Third Team All-Mountain West honors this week along with fellow Wolf Pack backcourt member Desmond Cambridge.

Sherfield is averaging 15.2 field goal attempts a game, with over 10 of those coming from inside the arc. He’s a wide-bodied ball handler who doesn’t mind driving the lane to earn his points. And as we saw against New Mexico, he can influence a game in multiple ways on the court. Going 8-9 from the free throw line while dishing out 5 assists and only being responsible for 2 turnovers. He’ll need some help from either Cambridge or even big man Will Baker if the Wolf Pack are to survive one of the best defenses in the country.

F-Abu Kigab-Boise State

After a shoulder injury that ended Kigab’s postseason early this time last year. The 6-7 Canadian forward decided to return for his extra season of eligibility. Since, he has helped lead this Boise State squad to their first outright conference championship and anchoring one of the toughest defenses in the country. The combo forward posted regular season averages of 14.7 PPG, 5.9 RPG 2.3 APG & 1.2 SPG. Earning Second-Team All-Mountain West honors along with a spot on the All-Defensive Team.

Kigab is all over the floor and makes his money taking tough defensive assignments, attacking the glass and getting to the free throw line while doing it. As the team’s leading scorer he doesn’t need to have the most points every game for Boise State to win, his contributions pile up elsewhere for his team to survive and advance.

Keys to the Game

For Boise State: Flash that Top-20 Ranked Defense, Secure the Basketball and knock down the three.

For Nevada:  Find and take quality shots, Crash the glass and avoid fouling

Prediction: Boise State 70, Nevada 65

I think Nevada has the individual scorers to upset Boise State given the perfect storm. But those scorers don’t exactly score with efficiency in on a consistent basis. So the wrong amount of missed shots or turnovers will surely give the Broncos the W and send them to the semifinals on Friday.

The winner of this one faces the winner of #4 Wyoming & #5 UNLV, set to tip-off at 2:30 PM PT in the Thomas and Mack. They’ll play Friday at 6:30 PM PT on the CBS Sports Network.

Larry Muniz covers college basketball as a writer for Mountain West Wire and WAC Hoops Digest. Also as a co-host of the college basketball podcast “Hoops Talk W/Jay & Larry”. He is also a USWBA Member.

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2022 Mountain West Tournament: Boise State vs. Nevada Preview, How To Watch & More

Boise State vs. Nevada: Game Preview Nevada hoping to foil the Broncos net cutting ambitions. Contact/Follow @HardwoodTalk & @MWCwire Boise State pushing for Mountain West title sweep, the Nevada Wolf Pack is their first obstacle. WHO: Boise State …

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Boise State vs. Nevada: Game Preview 

Nevada hoping to foil the Broncos net cutting ambitions. 

Contact/Follow @HardwoodTalk & @MWCwire

Boise State pushing for Mountain West title sweep, the Nevada Wolf Pack is their first obstacle.

WHO: Boise State (24-7, 15-3 in the MWC) vs. Nevada (13-17, 6-12 in the MWC)

WHEN: Thursday March 10th, 1:00 PM MT, 12:00 PM PT

WHERE: Thomas & Mack Center

TV:  CBS Sports Network

STREAM: FuboTV – Get a free trial

SERIES RECORD: Nevada leads all time series 51-30

The Mountain West Regular Season Champions Boise State are striving for a sweep of conference hardware. After getting much needed rest after a first round bye, the Broncos are ready to fend off a Nevada in the first quarterfinal matchup of the day.

The Broncos ended the regular season with a 71-68 loss against Colorado State in Fort Collins. The Rams were Mountain West Coach of the Year Leon Rice’s kryptonite this season. Being the only team to sweep the Broncos in conference play. Prior to that loss they were on a five game winning streak, including wins against San Diego State and Utah State at home.

Nevada ended the regular season on a four game losing streak. But they managed to overcome a persistent New Mexico squad, to beat the lobos 79-72 in yesterday’s lunch time first round matchup. Coach Alford’s squad was led by redshirt junior guard Grant Sherfield, who poured in 27 points, grabbed 10 rebounds and dished out 5 assists.

“I thought we did a lot of good things in the paint,” said Nevada head coach Steve Alford. “I thought we handled the backboard the way we wanted to handle it. I thought we made things hard on (Jaelen) House and (Jamal) Mashburn, which is a key. And I really thought we guarded, the first 16 minutes of the second half, I thought was the difference.”

Last Time Out

The last meeting between these two longtime conference mates (Big Sky, MWC & WAC) was on March 1st. The Wolf Pack traveled north to fall 73-67 inside ExtraMile Arena. Led by transfer forward Kenan Blackshear who had a team high 16 points. And thwarted by Abu Kigab who had a game high 23 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists & 3 steals. Boise State swept Nevada this season, which was the first time the Broncos were able to do so since 2016.

Players to Watch:

G-Grant Sherfield-Nevada

Sheffield is an absolute bucket getter in every sense of the phrase. Although inconsistent at times with his shooting touch, the 6-2 combo guard is averaging 18.9 PPG, 6.4 APG & 4.3 RPG. His season long totals earned him Third Team All-Mountain West honors this week along with fellow Wolf Pack backcourt member Desmond Cambridge.

Sherfield is averaging 15.2 field goal attempts a game, with over 10 of those coming from inside the arc. He’s a wide-bodied ball handler who doesn’t mind driving the lane to earn his points. And as we saw against New Mexico, he can influence a game in multiple ways on the court. Going 8-9 from the free throw line while dishing out 5 assists and only being responsible for 2 turnovers. He’ll need some help from either Cambridge or even big man Will Baker if the Wolf Pack are to survive one of the best defenses in the country.

F-Abu Kigab-Boise State

After a shoulder injury that ended Kigab’s postseason early this time last year. The 6-7 Canadian forward decided to return for his extra season of eligibility. Since, he has helped lead this Boise State squad to their first outright conference championship and anchoring one of the toughest defenses in the country. The combo forward posted regular season averages of 14.7 PPG, 5.9 RPG 2.3 APG & 1.2 SPG. Earning Second-Team All-Mountain West honors along with a spot on the All-Defensive Team.

Kigab is all over the floor and makes his money taking tough defensive assignments, attacking the glass and getting to the free throw line while doing it. As the team’s leading scorer he doesn’t need to have the most points every game for Boise State to win, his contributions pile up elsewhere for his team to survive and advance.

Keys to the Game

For Boise State: Flash that Top-20 Ranked Defense, Secure the Basketball and knock down the three.

For Nevada:  Find and take quality shots, Crash the glass and avoid fouling

Prediction: Boise State 70, Nevada 65

I think Nevada has the individual scorers to upset Boise State given the perfect storm. But those scorers don’t exactly score with efficiency in on a consistent basis. So the wrong amount of missed shots or turnovers will surely give the Broncos the W and send them to the semifinals on Friday.

The winner of this one faces the winner of #4 Wyoming & #5 UNLV, set to tip-off at 2:30 PM PT in the Thomas and Mack. They’ll play Friday at 6:30 PM PT on the CBS Sports Network.

Larry Muniz covers college basketball as a writer for Mountain West Wire and WAC Hoops Digest. Also as a co-host of the college basketball podcast “Hoops Talk W/Jay & Larry”. He is also a USWBA Member.

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Boise State Basketball: Derrick Alston Jr. To Return For His Senior Season

Boise State basketball should now be a contender with the return of Derrick Alston.

[jwplayer 18QegcJn-sNi3MVSU]

Boise State Basketball: Derrick Alston Jr. To Return For His Senior Season

Alston’s return immediately places the Broncos in the Mountain West title conversation.

Contact/Follow @HardwoodTalk & @MWCwire

The return of Derrick Alston Jr. is the piece Leon Rice needed to bring together one of his most talented rosters at Boise State

The Mountain West basketball landscape just got a little more visible for fans this morning, as Boise State guard and the conference’s returning leading scorer Derrick Alston Jr. has announced his attention to return for his senior season and help the Broncos contend for a conference championship.

“The opportunity to showcase my growth while working side-by-side with my teammates and coaches everyday to improve and to pursue a Mountain West Championship is an opportunity and life experience that I cannot pass up! Go Broncos!” Those were the words of arguably the best returning scorer in the conference, who indeed elevates Boise State directly into the conference title conversation.

Alston Jr. has gone from former walk-on at Boise State to 2nd team All-Mountain West and budding NBA prospect in just four years. He averaged 17.3 PPG 5.2 RPG & 3.1 APG in 32 appearances (30 starts) for the Broncos who finished 5th in a extremely competitive Mountain West in 2019-2020. He also became a member of the programs 1,000-point club this past season while finishing a top-10 finalist for the Julius Erving Small Forward of the Year Award.

Alston Jr. was one of the players who has seen their names climbing top-100 draft boards over the last couple of months, going from undrafted to a possible second round pick come draft night. But as a fringe prospect and after receiving some constructive feedback in the absence of in-person summer workouts, he knew what to do.

The Broncos made it all the way to the semifinals in last year’s conference tournament and now with their leader’s announced return have big dance aspirations to work towards over the summer. They lose several key players like the Mountain West’s all-time leading three point shooter, Justinian Jessup and double-double machine R.J. Williams. But welcome back fellow double-digit scorer Abu Kigab who will have a full season to make his mark on the program and one of the most anticipated group of transfers in Mountain West history.

For all of us that were awaiting this news and were happily surprised this Wednesday morning, it helps give us a clearer picture of what to expect in the conference next season. We can now continue writing our way-to-early previews and top returning players rankings as we now wait for just one more Mountain West player’s decision.

The remaining announcement we now await is that of San Diego State junior Matt Mitchell, who is the lone remaining draft declaration still up in the air at this point.

The early entry withdrawal date was announced last month, with August 17th being the last day prospects have to announce their return to school. It’s certainly been a long summer for coaching staffs across the country and we can only hope remaining declared prospects follow the lead of Alston Jr. in the coming weeks.

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