Albuquerque, NM, October 27, 2025
The University of New Mexico men’s basketball team kicked off its preseason with a close intra-squad scrimmage at The Pit, where the white team narrowly defeated the blue team 82-78. Sophomore guard Jamal Harris shone, scoring 22 points and hitting five three-pointers. The game highlighted the team’s depth, as the bench contributed significantly to the victory. With high expectations for the upcoming season, the Lobos are gearing up for exhibition games in hopes of building momentum before the official opener.
ALBUQUERQUE, NM (October 27, 2025) – University of New Mexico Men’s Basketball Preseason Scrimmage Highlights Potential for 2025-26 Season
The University of New Mexico men’s basketball team launched its 2025-26 preseason preparations with a competitive intra-squad scrimmage on Sunday at The Pit. The white team emerged victorious in a close 82-78 contest, displaying the depth and talent that could define the Lobos’ upcoming campaign. Sophomore guard Jamal Harris led the way with an impressive 22 points, sinking five three-pointers to spark excitement among early observers.
Key Performances and Team Balance
The scrimmage showcased a balanced attack, with the white team’s bench contributing 40 points to the win. This strong reserve scoring underscored the team’s newfound depth, a critical factor as they gear up for a demanding schedule. Harris’s sharp shooting from beyond the arc highlighted his growing role as a perimeter threat, while the overall play suggested improved cohesion among the roster.
The blue team put up a solid fight, keeping the game tight until the final minutes. Their effort revealed areas for refinement, particularly in defensive rotations and transition play. However, the competitive nature of the matchup provided valuable insights for the coaching staff, emphasizing the importance of bench production for sustaining performance over a long season. This depth is seen as essential for handling the rigors of conference play and potential postseason battles.
Projected Conference Standing and Core Players
With returning All-Mountain West forward JT Toppin leading the frontcourt, the Lobos enter the season with high expectations. Toppin’s presence in the paint offers a reliable scoring option and rebounding prowess, anchoring an offense that showed promise in the scrimmage. Conference polls project New Mexico to finish in the top three in the Mountain West, a reflection of their experienced core and incoming talent.
The integration of new recruits was a focal point of the session, as freshmen and transfers adapted to the team’s system. Early chemistry between newcomers and veterans appeared fluid, with several recruits contributing defensively and on fast breaks. This blend of experience and youth positions the program for a competitive edge, especially after addressing roster needs from the previous year.
Upcoming Schedule and Fan Anticipation
Building on this initial outing, the team will face exhibition games next week against local junior colleges. These tune-ups will provide further opportunities to fine-tune strategies before the official November opener. The exhibitions aim to build momentum and iron out inconsistencies observed in the scrimmage, such as pacing and foul management.
Local fans in Albuquerque are generating significant buzz around the program, hopeful for a deeper run in the NCAA Tournament. Last season’s first-round exit left supporters eager for redemption, and the current roster’s potential has fueled optimism. Attendance at The Pit during preseason events has been strong, signaling robust community support as the Lobos chase conference dominance and national relevance.
Background on Recent Program Developments
The University of New Mexico men’s basketball team has a storied history in the Mountain West Conference, with multiple tournament appearances in recent years. Last season’s early NCAA exit prompted strategic adjustments, including targeted recruiting to bolster perimeter shooting and interior defense. Coach Richard Pitino’s emphasis on versatile lineups aligns with the scrimmage results, where multiple players stepped up offensively.
The Pit, the team’s home arena, continues to serve as a fortress, drawing passionate crowds that amplify the program’s intensity. As preparations intensify, the focus remains on developing a rotation that can compete against top non-conference foes and sustain energy through March. With Toppin’s All-Conference caliber play and Harris’s emergence, the Lobos appear poised to exceed preseason projections.
This scrimmage marks the first step in a journey that could see New Mexico return to prominence. As exhibition play begins, all eyes will be on how the team translates practice-court promise into on-floor execution. The blend of returning stars, fresh faces, and strategic depth sets a foundation for what many hope will be a memorable 2025-26 season.
FAQ
What was the outcome of the University of New Mexico men’s basketball preseason scrimmage?
The white team won 82-78 against the blue team in the intra-squad scrimmage.
Who led the scoring in the scrimmage?
Sophomore guard Jamal Harris led with 22 points, including five three-pointers.
What role did the bench play in the scrimmage?
The white team’s bench scored 40 points, highlighting the team’s depth.
Who is a key returning player for the Lobos?
All-Mountain West forward JT Toppin anchors the frontcourt.
What is the projected finish for the team in conference polls?
The Lobos are projected to finish top-three in the Mountain West.
When do exhibition games begin?
Exhibition games begin next week against local junior colleges.
What was last year’s NCAA Tournament result?
The team had a first-round exit.
Key Features Chart: 2025-26 UNM Men’s Basketball Preseason Highlights
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Intra-squad scrimmage at The Pit |
| Score | White team 82, Blue team 78 |
| Top Performer | Jamal Harris: 22 points, 5 three-pointers |
| Bench Contribution | 40 points for white team |
| Key Player | JT Toppin, All-Mountain West forward |
| Conference Projection | Top-three in Mountain West |
| Next Steps | Exhibitions next week vs. local JCs |
| Prior Season NCAA | First-round exit |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
New Mexico Lobos Secure Convincing Win Over Utah State
New Mexico Lobos Secure 33-14 Victory Over Utah State Aggies
UNM Lobos Dominate Utah State with 78-59 Victory
UNM Lobos Secure Comeback Victory Over Utah State
Albuquerque Hosts End of Year Art Show with Holiday Discounts
New Mexico State Aggies Dominate in Basketball Exhibition
Lobos Defeat Aggies with 33-14 Victory in Conference Clash
University of New Mexico Lobos Dominate Utah State Aggies 33-14
Albuquerque Hosts Pivotal UNM Lobos vs. Utah State Basketball Clash Tonight
12-Year-Old Charged with Murder in Bicyclist’s Death
