Lobos edge out Aggies 78-77 to end streak in ‘Battle of I-25’

LAS CRUCES, New Mexico -- New Mexico State was denied its attempt at a sixth straight win in the head-to-head series over New Mexico on Thursday night as the Lobos edged out the Aggies 78-77 in an age-old rivalry thriller.

In its last five matchups against the Lobos, New Mexico State had won by an average of 15 points. But round one of this season's 'Battle of I-25' failed to produce an Aggie victory - and instead a one point loss - in what was a closely fought game that literally came down to the final seconds at the Pan Am Center.

The Aggies turned the ball over twice in the final 30 seconds of the game but still had a chance to win down 78-77 with six seconds left. Jabari Rice launched a three-point shot from the corner that swirled on the rim but didn't fall in and left the crowd mostly silent.

Formerly New Mexico State's head coach, New Mexico head man Paul Weir got his first career win against New Mexico State. Weir is now 1-4 all-time against the Aggies.