Getting to know the Aggies

Jason Groves covers New Mexico State basketball for the Las Cruces Sun-News.

Earlier this week, The State News caught up with Groves to talk about the Aggies’ strengths and players to watch in advance of Friday’s matchup between MSU and the Aggies.

The State News Who is New Mexico State’s player to watch?

Jason Groves The best guard is junior Jahmar Young (20.5 points per game), the MVP of the Western Athletic Conference tournament. If it comes down to a big shot, either he or senior guard Jonathan Gibson (17.5 ppg) will take it.

SN What kind of sets does New Mexico State run successfully on offense?

JG They do a lot of high pick-and-roll. They were near the top 20 nationally as far as 3-pointers made. They do a lot of pick and pop with sophomore forward Troy Gillenwater, who can shoot from 3-point range (39.3 percentage).

SN New Mexico State just won its conference tournament. Where’s the team at as it prepares for the NCAA Tournament?

JG It’s not the deepest team. The guys in the top three are really athletic. I’ll be interested in seeing the guard matchups. Gibson usually guards the other team’s best perimeter player.