Albuquerque, NM – The New Mexico Lobos (18-9, 10-6 Mountain West) host the Air Force Falcons (12-14, 6-10 Mountain West) at The Pit on Saturday, February 21, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. New Mexico enters the contest on a one-game winning streak, while Air Force is looking to rebound from a recent loss. This matchup is crucial for both teams as they navigate the Mountain West Conference standings.
The Lobos, currently sixth in the MWC, are led by Destinee Hooks, averaging 12.8 points per game, and Jessie Joaquim, who contributes significantly on the boards with 6.92 rebounds per game according to the Associated Press. Air Force, seeking to improve its position in the conference, will rely on the scoring prowess of Milahnie Perry, who leads the team with an impressive 17.6 points per game, and the all-around contributions of Jayda McNabb.
This game promises a competitive clash as both teams vie for crucial conference positioning with the regular season nearing its conclusion. The Falcons have struggled on the road, while the Lobos aim to maintain their momentum on their home court.
Game Details and How to Watch
Game Date: February 21, 2026
Game Time: 3:00 PM ET
TV Channel: Altitude Sports
Location: The Pit, Albuquerque, NM
Live Stream: Fubo (free trial) offers a live stream of the game.
Team Statistics
| Team | Win-Loss Record | Conference Record | Streak |
|---|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | 18-9 | 10-6 | 1 win |
| Air Force | 12-14 | 6-10 | 1 loss |
Key Players to Watch
For New Mexico, all eyes will be on Destinee Hooks and Jessie Joaquim. Hooks’ scoring ability and Joaquim’s rebounding prowess are vital to the Lobos’ success. Alyssa Hargrove also contributes with 2.5 assists per game, facilitating the offense. Joana Magalhães is a defensive force, averaging 1.72 steals per game, while Emma Najjuma provides interior defense with 0.67 blocks per game.
Air Force will lean heavily on Milahnie Perry’s scoring and Jayda McNabb’s versatility. McNabb leads the Falcons in rebounds (7.85 RPG), assists (2.5 APG), and steals (2.27 SPG), and also contributes 0.77 blocks per game, making her a key all-around player. Bhret Clay adds a shooting threat, making 1.4 three-pointers per game.
Recent Form
The Lobos are coming off a win, looking to build momentum. Air Force, however, is aiming to break a losing streak. The Falcons have struggled in games decided by at least 10 points, with a 5-8 record in such contests as reported by the Associated Press. New Mexico has shown a more consistent performance against Mountain West opponents, going 4-4 in conference play.
Following Saturday’s game, both teams will continue their pursuit of favorable seeding in the Mountain West Tournament. The outcome of this contest will undoubtedly have implications for their postseason aspirations.
Share your thoughts on the game in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow college basketball fans!
