Men’s Basketball Kicks Off 2025-26 Season Against Long Beach State Tuesday
San Diego State University (SDSU) men’s basketball kicks off its 2025-26 season by facing Long Beach State at Viejas Arena on Tuesday. This matchup marks the Aztecs’ final year in the Mountain West Conference and their 105th season overall.
Season Overview
The Aztecs are entering the season as the unanimous favorite to win the Mountain West. Under the leadership of head coach Brian Dutcher, who is in his ninth season, SDSU looks to continue its legacy of success.
Historical Matchup
This event is the 63rd meeting between SDSU and Long Beach State, and the second time they have faced each other in a season opener. The last season opener was on November 21, 2003, when the Aztecs secured a 74-44 victory. Currently, SDSU holds an eight-game winning streak against the Beach, dating back to December 10, 2002.
Key Statistics
- SDSU has won 18 consecutive season openers against unranked teams.
- The Aztecs have also won 12 straight season openers overall.
- They seek a 58th consecutive win against teams from the Big West Conference.
Coaching Milestones
Brian Dutcher has become a pivotal figure in SDSU’s basketball history, approaching his 200th career win. He is one of only three Aztec coaches to achieve at least 200 wins, joining George Ziegenfuss and Steve Fisher.
Returning Talent
The Aztecs return 61.9% of their playing minutes from the previous season, the second highest percentage in the nation among top teams. This includes the return of Reese Dixon-Waters, who missed the entire 2024-25 season due to injury, and contributes to 76.2% of SDSU’s offensive output.
Acknowledged Players
- Miles Byrd: Preseason Mountain West Player of the Year and leading scorer.
- Elzie Harrington: Preseason Freshman of the Year.
- Magoon Gwath: Last season’s Mountain West Freshman and Defensive Player of the Year.
Recent Performance
SDSU has set impressive records in recent seasons, boasting a 155-44 record since 2019, which is among the best in the nation. The Aztecs also ranked first nationally in field goal percentage defense last season.
Game Preparations
Before the regular season, SDSU played two exhibition matches at Viejas Arena, resulting in a loss to No. 12 UCLA and a convincing win against a local team. They hope to carry momentum into their contest against Long Beach State.
As the 2025-26 season commences, all eyes will be on how the Aztecs perform against Long Beach State and how they aim for yet another title in the Mountain West.
