The Washington Huskies (16-14 overall, 13-5 at home) host the New Mexico Lobos (20 – 12 overall) on Sunday, March 19th at 5pm.

Key Matchup: New Mexico Offense vs Huskies Defense

New Mexico averages 73.9 points on offense, while holding opponents to an average of 68.0 points per game.

Washington’s defense holds opponents to an average of 59.3 points per game (while averaging 61.6 points on offense).

A 14.6 point margin suggests either this will be a close game played at UW’s (preferably slower) pace with the Huskies having a great chance at securing a victory; or it will be a fast paced game that will likely be a comfortable victory by the Lobos.

Therefore, the Huskies must control the pace of the game to have a chance at victory.

The Lobos feature a dangerous three-point attack that is most frequent (and most effective) from the left-side of the court.

As a team, New Mexico shoots 33.9% from three-point range.

By comparison, the Huskies defense has held opponents to a 28.1% shooting average from three-point range.

The Huskies three-point defense will be key to a Huskies’ victory. If the Lobos shoot considerably under their three-point average (such as, 31% or lower) then Washington will have a considerably higher chance of victory.

The Lobos shoot 61.9% from within 4.5 feet of the rim; by comparison, the UW defense has held opponents to a 51% shooting average at the rim (within 4.5 feet).

Washington must control the defensive boards, particularly to limit New Mexico’s second chance opportunities and put-backs.

However, giving up two points is better than giving up a made three-pointer so Washington’s defense has a little more leeway for error under the basket than at the three-point line.

This all suggests a tightly contested game where the outcome will be determined by Washington controlling pace with their offense and defense, while limiting turnovers to boost UW’s offensive efficiency.

New Mexico Player Preview

Shaiquel “Shai” McGruder, a 6’0″ senior forward, averages a team-leading 13.6 points per game, along with 7.3 rebounds, 1.1 assists and 1.8 steals in 31.2 minutes.

Can't lose track of Shai. #GoLobos pic.twitter.com/PRyQTvovvn

— Lobo Women's Basketball (@UNMLoboWBB) March 17, 2023

We like that. Tora finds Shai on the break.#GoLobos pic.twitter.com/ukldAWU2PH

— Lobo Women's Basketball (@UNMLoboWBB) March 6, 2023

McGruder shoots 60.0% from two-point range and 24.4% from behind the three-point line — McGruder does most of her damage from midrange and inside the lane. (See shot chart.)

Senior 5’7″ guard LaTascya Duff averages 13.4 points per game, along with 3.1 rebounds 2.5 assists and 1.5 steals in 33.6 minutes per game.

Duff shoots 50.6% from two-point range and 40.2% from behind the three-point line — an extremely efficient and dangerous shooter from three-point range. (See shot chart.)

Senior 5’7″ guard LaTora Duff averages 10.7 points per game, along with 3.7 rebounds, 4.7 assists and 1.2 steals in 32.4 minutes per game.

LaTora Duff shoots 46.4% from two-point range and 26.1% from behind the three-point line — she is much less of an offensive threat than her sister, but is effective at the rim (62.5% within 4.5 feet). (See shot chart.)

However, the UW defense limit LaTora Duff’s offensive rebounds and put-back opportunities.

Amaya Brown , a 5’11” guard, averages 8.9 points per game, along with 5.5 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.2 steals in 25.5 minutes per game.

Amaya Brown making plays.#GoLobos pic.twitter.com/wJ0YFGq1Z7

— Lobo Women's Basketball (@UNMLoboWBB) March 6, 2023

Viane Cumber, a 5’10” sophomore guard, averages 8.5 points per game but is a dangerous sharpshooter from three-point range (38.1%). (See Shooting Chart.)

Despite averaging less than 10 points per game, the Huskies will have to deny Cumber uncontested three-point attempts or likely suffer dire consequences.

Big basket by V and she's got 15 in the game.#GoLobos pic.twitter.com/CnxXXD5bmu

— Lobo Women's Basketball (@UNMLoboWBB) March 7, 2023

No hesitancy from V.#GoLobos pic.twitter.com/GrxG4jfwjO

— Lobo Women's Basketball (@UNMLoboWBB) March 17, 2023