Until just a few years ago, the NCAA prohibited Division I basketball coaches from discussing the results of preseason scrimmages against other teams.
On Saturday, UNM Lobo men’s basketball coach Richard Pitino might have wished that rule was still in place.
The Lobos lost a closed-door scrimmage in the pit to Northern Arizona, 69-67.
Although he is under no obligation to do so, Pitino spoke with the Journal about what happened on Saturday afternoon.
“It’s a good reminder that even though people think we’re going to be good, and I still think we’re going to be good enough, it’s a good reminder that you have to be ready every time,” Pitino said.
While UNM played more players than they would in a regular season game and didn’t open much of the playbook, Pitino said there was no excuse.
“It was very beneficial,” he said. “I wish we were allowed to do four or five.”
NAU forward Carson Towt led low with 15 points and 20 rebounds, including nine offensive boards against what the Lobos hope will be a much-improved frontcourt with transfers Morris Udeze (11 points, 10 rebounds, six scrimmage fouls ) and Josiah Allick (12 points, 6 rebounds).
The Lobos shot 38.9%, were outshot 40-33 and missed nine free throws while playing without center Sebastian Forsling and winger Emmanuel Kuac (recovering from injuries). Guard Jamal Mashburn, Jr. injured a toe and was sidelined for most of the second half.
Jaelen House had 7 points, 5 assists and 6 steals, but shot just 2 of 11. KJ Jenkins led UNM in scoring with 15 points off the bench, including 4 of 4 from 3-pointers.
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