20. San Diego State (8-2)
These Aztecs have history and everyone should know it at this point. However, the team you’ll find on the court is far removed from the one that marched to the national title game just over twenty months ago, though that doesn’t mean Brian Dutcher’s new crop of players isn’t talented. San Diego State already has great wins over Creighton and Houston and has been perfect throughout December, finishing nonconference play on the right foot.
The Aztecs were back in action after a week and a half off for the San Jose Tip-Off late on Saturday night. San Diego State played new ACC member California and handled their business, with a triumphant 71-50 victory over the Golden Bears. Nick Boyd scored 17 points while Miles Byrd and BJ Davis had 12 apiece in what was undoubtedly a great defensive effort for the whole team.
As mentioned, the faces on this roster are largely new, but this team has a winning spirit inspired by their coach and this excellent staff. San Diego State is going to be one of the favorites yet again in the MWC and it would surprise nobody to see them making moves in March for a third straight year, especially if their defense can play like this consistently. MWC play starts against Utah State next Saturday.