SDSU Tries to Shake 5-Game Skid

The San Diego State men’s basketball team, which has fallen into last place in the Western Athletic Conference, will try to turn things around against Wyoming at 7:30 tonight in the Sports Arena.

The Aztecs (8-9 overall, 2-5 in the conference) opened conference play with victories at home over Colorado State and Air Force, but have lost 5 games in a row for the first time since Jim Brandenburg took over as coach.

Wyoming, which was nationally ranked much of last season, also is struggling. Despite a 64-59 victory at Hawaii Saturday night, the Cowboys (10-9, 2-3) would drop to last place with a loss to the Aztecs.

San Diego State has been hurt by a recent rash of injuries, but the Aztec starters are all expected to play tonight.

Center Mitch McMullen, who leads the Aztecs in scoring (15.2-point average) and rebounding (8.2), did not practice this weekend because of a recurring ankle problem but is expected to play. Forward Michael Best, who sat out much of the Aztecs’ 65-62 loss at Hawaii Thursday night because of cramps, also is expected back. Guard Tony Ross, who did not play against Hawaii because of a sprained ankle and hadn’t scored in the 3 previous games, also should play tonight.

The Aztecs lost all three games against Wyoming last season, including in the first round of the conference tournament.

Wyoming, which had lost 4 in a row before beating Hawaii, is led by forward Robyn Davis (20.3-point average) and guard Reggie Fox (16.6). Davis and Fox are the Cowboys’ only returning starters.

Wyoming also starts two freshmen, Reggie Slater (7.7 rebounds) and Michael Brown, at forward. Point guard Kenny Smith, a junior college transfer, is averaging 13 points.

San Diego State will play at Colorado State Thursday and at Air Force Saturday, before returning home to play BYU Feb. 9.