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Tulsa vs. New Mexico State: AAC Battle and WAC Upset

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, December 11th 2025 at 19:58 GMT by Sports Illustrated

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Tulsa vs. New Mexico State Showdown: A Comprehensive Preview

The mid‑western powerhouses are set to collide in a matchup that has college basketball fans buzzing. The University of Tulsa and New Mexico State University (NMSU) are preparing for a pivotal game that could reshape the balance of power in their respective conferences. This feature, part of SI’s “UEN Exclusive” series, dives into the key storylines, player performances, coaching strategies, and what the outcome could mean for each program.

1. The Stakes: Why This Game Matters

For Tulsa, the upcoming game is more than just another entry on the schedule—it’s a chance to cement their position at the top of the American Athletic Conference (AAC) and to boost their résumé for the postseason. The Golden Hurricane finished the regular season with an 11‑2 conference record, ranking second in the AAC behind the Connecticut Huskies. They are aiming to maintain their momentum and solidify their spot in the AAC tournament’s top seed bracket.

New Mexico State, on the other hand, is battling to climb out of the lower tier of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). After a 7‑7 conference record, the Aggies are looking for a win to prove they can compete against teams from other regions. A victory over Tulsa would signal that the Aggies are more than a mid‑level contender; it would also strengthen their case for an at‑large bid if they can string together a series of quality wins.

2. Coaching Matchup

Frank Haith (Tulsa) – The 24th‑year veteran has built Tulsa into a disciplined, defense‑heavy unit. His coaching philosophy centers on a motion offense that emphasizes spacing and ball movement. Haith’s coaching staff has also placed a strong emphasis on recruiting players who fit the school’s culture, which has paid dividends in the last few seasons.

Gary Garner (NMSU) – Garner has been at the helm of the Aggies since 2017, guiding the program to a WAC title in 2019 and an NCAA tournament appearance in 2020. Garner’s style leans towards a high‑tempo offense, but his teams also display a robust defensive backbone. In the last season, he managed to turn a once‑floundering program into a competitive unit.

The clash of philosophies—Haith’s methodical tempo versus Garner’s fast‑break dynamism—will add an extra layer of intrigue to the game.

3. Key Players to Watch

Tulsa

• Cameron Smith (Guard) – Averaging 17.3 points per game, Smith is the primary offensive catalyst for Tulsa. He has a reputation for clutch shooting from beyond the arc and has consistently performed in high‑pressure situations. His ability to guard multiple positions also gives Tulsa a defensive edge in transition.

• Denzel Whitaker (Forward) – A versatile defender who can switch between the post and the perimeter, Whitaker averages 9.6 rebounds and 7.1 points per game. He has been a key factor in Tulsa’s defense, often shutting down opponents’ primary scorers.

New Mexico State

• Seth Brown (Guard) – Brown has emerged as NMSU’s floor general, averaging 14.2 points and 5.6 assists per game. His playmaking skills are expected to be a critical factor against Tulsa’s disciplined defense.

• Drew Thompson (Center) – At 6'9", Thompson is a defensive anchor, averaging 7.4 blocks and 10.2 rebounds per game. He’s a major inside presence and a critical part of New Mexico State’s defensive scheme.

4. Tactical Breakdown

Tulsa’s Approach
Tulsa’s coaching staff has stressed ball movement and spacing. Their defense will likely be a combination of zone and man‑to‑man, with an emphasis on limiting perimeter shooting. The Golden Hurricane’s frontcourt will be tasked with protecting the rim, forcing the Aggies into low‑percentage shots.

New Mexico State’s Plan
NMSU will likely play a high‑tempo game to exploit Tulsa’s defensive rotations. Aggies’ guard play is expected to break down Tulsa’s defensive sets, allowing for easy transition opportunities. The frontcourt will focus on dominating the paint, with Thompson being the primary shot‑blocker and a key rebounder.

5. Historical Context

The Tulsa–NMSU series is a relatively new rivalry, with only a handful of matchups over the last decade. In the past three games, Tulsa has emerged victorious twice, showing an overall advantage in the series. Nevertheless, NMSU’s previous win suggests that the game is still highly competitive.

A look at the broader context reveals that Tulsa’s recent 8‑point average margin of victory over opponents suggests a well‑executed system. NMSU, conversely, has displayed a 5‑point average margin in recent games, showing that they can challenge top‑tier opponents on occasion.

6. What the Result Means

If Tulsa Wins
- They’ll maintain momentum heading into the AAC tournament. - Their national ranking could see a boost, potentially pushing them into the top 20 if the win is against a highly regarded opponent. - It would confirm the viability of Haith’s system against a team from a different conference.

If New Mexico State Wins
- The Aggies will secure a boost in the WAC standings, possibly earning a top seed in the conference tournament. - The victory could signal that NMSU’s strategy against higher‑level programs is paying off, improving their national perception. - Garner would strengthen his case for a larger program, potentially leading to more high‑profile recruits.

7. Final Thoughts

This game isn’t just a cross‑conference clash; it’s a test of coaching philosophies, player development, and mental resilience. The article’s “UEN Exclusive” status underscores the significance of the matchup, placing it under the spotlight of a national audience that appreciates the nuance of college basketball.

Whether you’re a Tulsa faithful or an NMSU supporter, the game promises a tactical showcase. With top performers set to take the court, the strategic battle between Haith and Garner, and the stakes on both sides, the Tulsa vs. New Mexico State showdown is one of the most intriguing games of the season. Fans are encouraged to tune in, as the outcome could shape conference standings, tournament seedings, and the trajectory of both programs moving forward.