Lobos look to bounce back from previous road loss
The key to success for UNM's men's team last season was its impressive road record. The Lobos were 30-5 overall and that included 10 road wins and three more wins on neutral floors.
But this young New Mexico team has lost its only road game by 25 points at California. Wednesday night, the Lobos try again with a trip to Southern Illinois.
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"I know this will be a difficult game,'' said UNM coach Steve Alford. "I remember my days in the (Missouri) Valley (Conference). It's a difficult place to play.''
Alford liked the improvements his team showed in an easy victory over the University of San Diego on Sunday. ``Hopefully, we can play on the road better that we did at Cal.''
The Lobos are expected to start two freshmen on Wednesday.
"Last year, we won a lot of road games,'' remembered UNM sophomore Jamal Fenton. "The freshmen have got to step up and learn how to win on the road.''
The game with Southern Illinois is left over from a disappointing series between the Mountain West and the Missouri Valley. While the ACC/Big Ten Challenge is earning national attention, even the players who are competing in the MWC/MVC rivalry aren't aware it is happening.
The road won't get any easier for the Lobos as they make the trip down I-25 to play New Mexico State on Saturday.