Pick #10: UNW/SDSU u152.5 (-115 BetMGM)

**Expect Defensive Battle as Lobos Clash with Aztecs: Under 152.5 Points Total**

In Friday's Mountain West matchup, the New Mexico Lobos face off against the San Diego State Aztecs, and the betting focus is on the game total, leaning towards the under 152.5 points scored. Here's why this could be a savvy play for bettors.

The previous encounter between these teams on January 13th saw the Lobos emerge victorious with an 88-70 win over the Aztecs. Despite the high-scoring affair, it's worth noting that the game went over the posted total of 150 primarily due to a significant number of free throw attempts. Both teams combined for 51 free throw attempts, a factor heavily influencing the final score.

However, expecting a similar abundance of free throws in this rematch might be optimistic, especially considering the unlikelihood of both teams replicating their previous performance from the charity stripe. Moreover, both the Aztecs and the Lobos have struggled with their perimeter shooting this season, ranking in the mid-200s nationally in three-point shooting percentage.

Recent performances also suggest a potential offensive letdown for the Lobos, particularly after their high-scoring victory over Nevada. Shooting close to 50% from three-point range in that game, the Lobos might find it challenging to maintain such efficiency against a stout defensive team like the Aztecs, especially in a back-to-back travel scenario.

San Diego State's strength lies in their defense, making them formidable opponents at home. With the added motivation of seeking revenge for their earlier loss to the Lobos, the Aztecs are likely to rely on their defensive prowess to control the game tempo and keep the scoring in check.

Considering San Diego State's home dominance and defensive focus, coupled with the potential for offensive regression from New Mexico, betting on the under 152.5 points total appears to be a prudent choice for this Mountain West showdown.