The University of New Mexico (UNM) Lobos men’s basketball team enters the 2025–26 season with a new head coach, a retooled roster, and momentum from their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2014. For Santa Fe fans, the short drive to Albuquerque offers a chance to experience top-tier NCAA Division I basketball at The Pit.
The season opener is an exhibition game on October 30. Then the regular season kicks off on November 5.
What is the history of UNM men’s basketball?
The Lobos have a long and competitive tradition in college basketball.
- NCAA Tournament appearances: 17 total, most recently in 2025.
- National Invitational Tournament (NIT) invitations: More than 20 across program history.
- Notable NBA alumni: Michael Cooper, Luc Longley, Danny Granger.
- Recent success: 27–8 record in 2024–25, including a Mountain West regular-season championship.
Who is the new head coach of the Lobos in 2025?
The 2025 offseason brought major change to the program. Head coach Richard Pitino, who led the Lobos for four seasons, departed for Xavier on March 25, 2025.
Days later, on March 30, 2025, UNM named Eric Olen as the 23rd head coach in program history. Previously at UC San Diego, Olen guided the Tritons into Division I and led them to an NCAA Tournament appearance in their very first season of eligibility. He was officially introduced to Lobo fans at a press conference on April 1, 2025. His five-year contract signals a new chapter for UNM basketball.
The Pit Experience — A Unique Basketball Venue
The Pit in Albuquerque has long been considered one of the most distinctive arenas in the NCAA.
- Atmosphere: Frequently ranked among the loudest and most intimidating venues in college basketball.
- Location: Roughly an hour from Santa Fe, making it easy for fans to join the excitement.
- Capacity: Over 15,000 seats, offering fans both energy and intimacy.
2024–25 Season & March Madness Return
The 2024–25 season brought the Lobos back to the NCAA Tournament after more than a decade.
- Overall record: 27–8, 17–3 in Mountain West play.
- Mountain West title: Won the regular-season championship.
NCAA Tournament
- March 2025 was the first appearance since 2014.
- Defeated Marquette 75–66 in the first round.
- Advanced to the second round
- Fell to Michigan State
- Milestone: First NCAA Tournament win since 2012.
Who are the key players on the 2025–26 roster?
With Olen now at the helm, UNM fields a retooled roster blending veteran leadership and new talent.
Returning Players
- Kevin Patton Jr. – Guard
- Deyton Albury – Guard
- Tajavis Miller – Guard
- Luke Haupt – Forward
Newcomers and Underclassmen
- Uriah Tenette – Freshman Guard
- Tomislav Buljan – Freshman Forward
- Sir Marius Jones – Freshman Forward
Departures
- Donovan Dent – Mountain West Player of the Year, transferred in March 2025.
- Tru Washington – Entered the transfer portal.
What challenges and opportunities lie ahead for UNM basketball?
The 2025–26 season will test the Lobos in several ways:
Opportunities
- Build on the confidence of 2025’s NCAA Tournament run.
- Showcase a new coaching philosophy under Eric Olen.
- Develop a strong returning core with promising freshmen.
Challenges
- Replacing the point and assists per game and the leadership of Donovan Dent.
- Adjusting to new systems and staff.
- Maintaining momentum in a competitive Mountain West Conference.
FAQs
When did the Lobos last win an NCAA Tournament game?
In 2025, UNM defeated Marquette in the first round, their first NCAA Tournament win since 2012.
Who is the Lobos’ head coach in 2025–26?
Eric Olen, hired in March 2025 after Richard Pitino left for Xavier.
Where do the Lobos play home games?
At The Pit in Albuquerque, one of college basketball’s most famous venues.
Be Part of the Action at The Pit
The 2025–26 season marks a new era for Lobo basketball, and fans have the chance to be part of it from day one. With a proven new head coach, a dynamic roster, and the electric atmosphere of The Pit, every game promises high-level NCAA action just a short drive from Santa Fe.
Don’t miss your chance to cheer on the Lobos this season. Get your tickets, wear the cherry and silver, and feel the energy of The Pit!
