The University of New Mexico Lobos men’s basketball team begins the 2025–26 season on November 5 with new leadership, a restructured roster, and momentum from their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2014.
Fans in Santa Fe and across New Mexico can expect another competitive year in the Mountain West Conference. There will be an exhibition game on October 30.
- UNM Men’s Basketball History
- Who is the 2025–26 Head Coach?
- Did the Coaching Staff Change Under Eric Olen?
- Where Do the Lobos Play?
- How did the Lobos perform in March Madness 2025?
- Who Are the 2025–26 Key Players?
- Lobos’ Strengths and Weaknesses
- 2025–26 Postseason Expectations
- Let's Goooo: 2025–26 Lobo Basketball
UNM Men’s Basketball History
The University of New Mexico men’s basketball program began in 1899 and has since grown into one of the most established teams in the West.
Over the decades, the Lobos have earned 17 NCAA Tournament appearances, including their long-awaited return in 2025, and have received more than 20 invitations to the National Invitation Tournament.
Their record includes more than 1,600 wins, with a winning percentage above .570, underscoring a tradition of consistent success.
The program has also produced a number of standout players who went on to professional careers.
Mel Daniels, who became an ABA Most Valuable Player, began his journey in Albuquerque, while Michael Cooper earned five NBA titles with the Los Angeles Lakers.
Luc Longley collected three championships with the Chicago Bulls, Danny Granger became an NBA All-Star, and Kenny Thomas built a lengthy 11-year career in the league.
Together, their achievements highlight the national impact of UNM basketball.
Who is the 2025–26 Head Coach?
Leadership changed in spring 2025.
- Richard Pitino’s exit: Left UNM on March 25, 2025, to coach at Xavier.
- Eric Olen hire: Announced March 30, 2025, and introduced April 1, 2025.
- Coaching background: Built UC San Diego’s transition into Division I, leading the Tritons to an NCAA Tournament berth in their first year of eligibility.
- Contract: Signed a five-year agreement with UNM.
- Coaching background: Built UC San Diego’s transition into Division I, leading the Tritons to an NCAA Tournament berth in their first year of eligibility.
Did the Coaching Staff Change Under Eric Olen?
When Eric Olen was hired in March 2025, the Lobos’ coaching staff saw a near-complete turnover. The assistants who worked under Richard Pitino moved on, and Olen assembled a new group built around his own system and coaching philosophy.
Three of Olen’s longtime assistants from UC San Diego joined him in Albuquerque:
- Tom Tankelewicz – Assistant coach from UC San Diego
- Sam Stapleton – Assistant coach from UC San Diego
- Mikey Howell – Assistant coach from UC San Diego
Their presence provides continuity with Olen’s style of play and ensures a smoother transition for the Lobos as they adjust to a new approach on both offense and defense.
Olen also added Mike Roberts, previously at UTEP, who is recognized for his work in defense and player development, along with Michael Wilder from UC Irvine, who brings extensive experience in program building and recruiting.
With a blend of trusted colleagues and new voices, Olen’s staff reflects a balance of familiarity and fresh perspective, setting the stage for a new era of Lobo basketball.
Where Do the Lobos Play?
UNM plays at The Pit in Albuquerque, just a short drive from Santa Fe.
- Capacity: 15,000+ fans.
- Atmosphere: Consistently ranked among the loudest arenas in college basketball.
How did the Lobos perform in March Madness 2025?
The Lobos reestablished themselves nationally with a strong postseason showing. The 2024–25 season was a breakthrough year.
- Record: 27–8 overall, 17–3 Mountain West play.
- Conference result: Won the Mountain West regular-season title.
- NCAA Tournament:
- First appearance since 2014.
- Defeated Marquette 75–66 in the first round.
- Lost to Michigan State in the second round.
- Milestone: First NCAA Tournament win since 2012.
Who Are the 2025–26 Key Players?
The roster combines veteran players and new recruits.
Returning players
- Kevin Patton Jr. – Guard
- Deyton Albury – Guard
- Tajavis Miller – Guard
- Luke Haupt – Forward
Newcomers
- 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 transfer portal
Lobos’ Strengths and Weaknesses
The Lobos have the tools to compete, but must adapt quickly to a new coaching staff and roster changes.
Strengths
- Depth across guard and forward positions.
- Experienced upperclassmen balanced with young talent.
- Strong home-court advantage at The Pit.
Weaknesses
- Loss of leading scorer Donovan Dent.
- Adjustment period under a new head coach.
- Intense competition in the Mountain West.
2025–26 Postseason Expectations
After reaching March Madness in 2025, expectations remain high.
- Goal: Return to the NCAA Tournament for a second straight season.
- Key factor: Performance in Mountain West Conference play.
- Outlook: Early non-conference results will show how quickly the team gels under Olen’s leadership.
FAQs
When did the Lobos last appear in March Madness?
In 2025, their first NCAA Tournament berth since 2014.
Who is the Lobos’ head coach in 2025–26?
Eric Olen, hired in March 2025.
What is The Pit?
UNM’s home arena in Albuquerque is recognized nationally for its atmosphere and fan support.
2025–26 UNM Schedule
The Lobos’ exhibition and non-conference schedule for 2025–26 has been announced, giving fans several key matchups and dates to circle on the calendar:
Key Takeaways About the Schedule
- Eight home regular-season non-conference games (plus an exhibition) give fans many opportunities to see the team at The Pit.
- The Lobos play significant neutral or road games, including the Hall of Fame Classic in Kansas City, MO, and a road trip to VCU.
- Early exhibition games and local matchups (such as versus New Mexico Highlands) provide opportunities to integrate new players before conference play begins.
- Mountain West Conference schedule details are still to be released, but will cover the bulk of January through March competition.
Let’s Goooo: 2025–26 Lobo Basketball
The University of New Mexico men’s basketball team enters the 2025–26 season with a fresh start and high expectations. With new head coach Eric Olen, a restructured roster, and the return of The Pit’s legendary atmosphere, every game is set to deliver big-time college basketball. Fans from Santa Fe and across New Mexico can witness the action up close — from the November 5 season opener to marquee matchups throughout the year.
Be there when history is made. Get your tickets, wear the cherry and silver, and feel the roar of The Pit.
