The University of New Mexico (UNM) has officially announced its 2026-27 Mountain West men's basketball schedule, providing fans with a glimpse of the upcoming season. The schedule features a total of 18 conference games, alongside 11 previously revealed nonconference matchups, bringing the total to 29 out of 32 regular-season games for head coach Eric Olen's second year at the helm.
The Lobos will kick off their Mountain West campaign on January 2, 2027, with a renewal of their rivalry against the University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP). This matchup marks the first time the two teams will face each other as conference rivals since February 20, 1999, when UNM triumphed over the Miners with an 81-65 victory in the Pit. The historical significance of this game adds an extra layer of excitement for fans, as the teams have split their nonconference encounters evenly since then.
One of the standout storylines for the upcoming season is the return of former UNM head coaches Steve Alford and Craig Neal, who will bring their Nevada team to the Pit on January 5. This matchup is particularly notable as both coaches have deep ties to the Lobos program, and their return is sure to evoke strong emotions from the fanbase.
The schedule also includes a highly anticipated trip to Hawaii on January 26, where the Lobos will face off against the Rainbow Warriors. This midweek island hop not only presents a unique travel challenge but also offers a chance for UNM to showcase its talent in a picturesque setting. The Lobos will conclude their regular season in Reno, where they will meet Nevada again on March 4, potentially with a conference title on the line.
While the Mountain West Conference has undergone significant changes with the departure of key teams such as Utah State, Boise State, San Diego State, Fresno State, and Colorado State to the Pac-12, the Lobos are focused on making their mark in the new landscape. The league's strength may not be as formidable as in previous years, but UNM is poised to take advantage of the opportunities presented by the revised schedule.
In addition to the conference games, the Lobos have confirmed 11 of their 14 nonconference matchups, which include notable contests against teams like Utah Tech and New Mexico State. One remaining nonconference game is expected to feature a non-Division I opponent, likely from the Division II ranks. This diverse schedule aims to prepare the Lobos for the rigors of Mountain West play.
As the season approaches, fans are eager to see how the Lobos will perform under Olen's leadership. With a mix of seasoned players and new talent, UNM aims to build on its previous successes and make a strong push for a favorable postseason position. The Mountain West Tournament is set to take place from March 10-13 in Las Vegas, Nevada, where the Lobos will look to compete for a coveted spot in the NCAA Tournament.
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