San Diego State Returns to Viejas Arena for Conference Play Resumption
After a lengthy hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, San Diego State University's men's basketball team will finally make its much-anticipated return to Viejas Arena on Thursday, January 5th, 2023, to resume their Mountain West Conference (MWC) schedule. The Aztecs will host the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) in a highly anticipated matchup that promises to ignite the Viejas Arena crowd.
Challenges and Expectations
The Aztecs have faced a series of challenges in the lead-up to their conference play resumption, including injuries and a COVID-19 outbreak within the team. However, head coach Brian Dutcher remains optimistic about his team's prospects.
"We've been through a lot over the last few weeks, but I'm proud of how our guys have responded," Dutcher said. "We're excited to be back home in front of our fans and start chasing a conference championship."
Key Players and Matchups
San Diego State will rely on a balanced attack led by senior forward Matt Bradley and junior guard Adam Seiko. Bradley is averaging 14.6 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, while Seiko is contributing 12.3 points and 4.1 assists per game. UNLV, on the other hand, will be led by senior guard Jordan McCabe and sophomore forward Nick Blake. McCabe is averaging 14.1 points and 4.5 assists per game, while Blake is averaging 13.2 points and 7.5 rebounds per game.
Importance of Home Court Advantage
The return to Viejas Arena provides San Diego State with a significant advantage as they aim to maintain their dominance in the MWC. The Aztecs have a 15-2 record at home this season, including a 5-0 mark in conference play. Viejas Arena is known for its electric atmosphere, and the crowd's energy is sure to give the Aztecs an extra boost.
Different Perspectives
While the San Diego State fanbase is eagerly anticipating the return of conference play, some experts believe that the team may face an uphill battle in the MWC. ESPN analyst Jay Bilas recently stated that he believes San Diego State is "not as good as they were last year" and that "they're going to have a hard time winning the conference."
However, other analysts are more optimistic about the Aztecs' chances. CBS Sports analyst Gary Parrish believes that San Diego State "has a chance to be a dark horse in the NCAA Tournament" and that "they're not going to be an easy out for anyone."
Conclusion
The return of San Diego State to Viejas Arena for conference play resumption is a highly anticipated event that promises to provide plenty of excitement. The Aztecs will face a tough challenge in UNLV, but they will be buoyed by their home crowd and the experience of their key players. While there are differing opinions on the team's prospects, one thing is for sure: San Diego State is poised to make a statement in the MWC and beyond.
The broader implications of San Diego State's return to Viejas Arena extend beyond the basketball court. The team's success can have a positive impact on the university, the city of San Diego, and the entire San Diego State community. A successful season for the Aztecs can unite the community, bring national attention to the university, and inspire future generations of student-athletes.
As San Diego State embarks on this new chapter, the Viejas Arena will once again serve as a beacon of hope and excitement for the Aztec faithful. The team's determination, resilience, and passion will undoubtedly ignite the crowd and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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San Diego State Returns To Viejas Arena For Conference Play Resumption