The San Diego State Aztecs picked up their biggest win of the 2009-2010 season, but it came at a heavy cost. The Aztecs (12-3, 1-0 MWC) used a strong second half to bull their way past 15th ranked New Mexico 74-64 at Viejas Arena, on a night when junior forward Billy White was lost for at least the short term and perhaps much longer with a high ankle sprain.
Malcolm Thomas (click here for 1-on-1 postgame interview) led the Aztecs with 18 points and a season-best 15 rebounds, while D.J. Gay added 12 points on 3-of-5 shooting from three point range. Tim Shelton stepped in for White with 26 minutes of play off the bench, contributing 8 points and 4 rebounds. Dairese Gary led the Lobos (14-2, 0-1) with 15 points.
While a win over a top-15 team is valuable, the loss of White (8 points in 9 minutes) may prove to be the bigger long-term story. He landed awkwardly on his right ankle after going up for a rebound with 5:45 remaining in the first half.
White could put no pressure on the ankle as he was helped off the court, and later watched the game on crutches and wearing a protective boot. Head coach Steve Fisher had a cautiously pessimistic diagnosis after the game:
Hear more from Coach Fisher and D.J. Gay, check out a picture gallery from the game and more after the jump! Continue Reading →
{ 1 comment }
