San Diego State Basketball: Keys for Aztecs to reach 19-0 against Nevada

San Diego State Basketball: 3 keys for Aztecs to move to 19-0 against Nevada

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA - NOVEMBER 28: Matt Mitchell #11 and KJ Feagin #10 of the San Diego State Aztecs gesture to fans as they celebrate their 83-52 victory over the Creighton Bluejays during the 2019 Continental Tire Las Vegas Invitational basketball tournament at the Orleans Arena on November 28, 2019 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images) /

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SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA – JANUARY 11: KJ Feagin #10 of the San Diego State Aztecs (Photo by Kent Horner/Getty Images) /

Attack the paint

This was a key for SDSU in their game against Boise State last week and I believe it will once again be an important part of their game plan against Nevada. Just because SDSU has been spectacular shooting the 3 this season doesn’t mean they should force it against a defense that has been excellent against the 3.

That is certainly the case for Nevada’s defense this year. They are holding opposing 3-pt shooters to an incredibly low 26.6% from behind the arc, which is the 5th best number in the country. This number becomes even more impressive when you consider the fact that they’ve already taken on Saint Mary’s, BYU, and Air Force, who all rank in the top 10 in 3 point percentage. However, unlike SDSU, there is a clear drop off between Nevada’s 3-pt and 2-pt defenses. They are 189th in opposing 2-pt percentage, allowing opponents to make 49.4% of their attempts. There are also only 36 teams in the country who allow their opponents to attempt more free throws.

Much like on the defensive end, there’s only a small difference between their 2-point offense and 3-point offense. They make 52% from 2, which is good for 75th in the country. They don’t get to the free throw line too often, but against a defense that fouls as much as Nevada’s, I don’t think that will really be an issue in this game.

SDSU may be one of the better 3-pt shooting teams in the country this season, but I think in this game they should start off attacking the paint as often as possible. Their offense might be a little bit less impressive inside the arc than outside, but Nevada’s obvious weakness is in the lane. I also believe that this would eventually open up opportunities for the Aztecs outside the arc because Nevada would have to change their approach if SDSU can beat them up inside. If SDSU can find success both inside and outside against Nevada then this game will be over quickly. I just believe that they need to start inside and work their way out.