SDSU Basketball: Aztecs Seek Revenge Against Grand Canyon

SDSU Basketball: A Chance for Redemption Against Grand Canyon

San Diego State coach Brian Dutcher revisited a painful memory with his team – the agonizing 70-69 loss to Grand Canyon last month. The clip highlighted Makaih Williams’ game-winning drive and the controversial foul call on SDSU freshman Tae Simmons with just 1.8 seconds remaining. However, Dutcher didn’t dwell on the perceived injustice. Instead, he used it as a valuable teaching moment.

“The goal wasn’t vengeance,” Dutcher explained. “It was about improving our defensive positioning. Should we find ourselves in a similar situation, we need to funnel the ball handler towards the middle, rather than allowing an easier path down the sideline.”

Players Driven by the Past

Motivation isn’t an issue for the Aztecs. The sting of defeat is still fresh. “We lost, so it hurts,” said guard Taj DeGourville. “We can’t dwell on feeling robbed, but we’re determined to turn the tables.” Reese Dixon-Waters echoed this sentiment, admitting the team felt they had the initial game in hand.

The loss was particularly tough on BJ Davis, who missed a crucial free throw with 7.7 seconds left. He openly acknowledged the miss affected his confidence in subsequent games, but he’s since regained his form.

Looking Ahead: Payback Games

SDSU now has two opportunities for “payback.” First, they face Grand Canyon at Viejas Arena on Tuesday night, followed by a rematch against Utah State, who defeated them earlier in the season. “These are games we’ve been looking forward to,” Dutcher stated. “It’s easy to talk about getting revenge, but it’s much harder to actually do it.”

Analyzing the Previous Matchup

While the controversial foul call is a key talking point, Dutcher also pointed out that Grand Canyon was leading by as much as 12 points in the second half before SDSU mounted a comeback. He believes the Aztecs shouldn’t have been in a position where a single foul could decide the game.

Grand Canyon has built a strong program, bolstered by significant NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals and revenue-sharing opportunities, attracting talented transfers. They’ve reached the NCAA Tournament three consecutive times and boast a roster ranked among the most experienced in Division I.

Key Player Updates

SDSU will be without freshman guard Elzie Harrington, who is still recovering from a lower leg injury. However, they welcome back 7-foot forward Magoon Gwath, who made a remarkable return from a hip injury in the recent win against Nevada, contributing 13 points and 5 blocks in just 14 minutes. Gwath’s performance following a layoff has been exceptional, averaging 16.5 points and 4.0 blocks while shooting perfectly from the field.

“He’s moving better now that he’s shed the 2-pound knee brace,” Dutcher noted. “Keeping him healthy is crucial.”

Game Details

When: 7 p.m. Tuesday
Where: Viejas Arena
TV: CBS Sports Network
Radio: 760-AM

The Aztecs are determined to learn from their previous encounter and deliver a stronger performance against a formidable Grand Canyon team. This rematch is more than just a game; it’s a chance for redemption and a statement of intent.