Utah State Basketball Dominates with Stellar Defense and Neutral-Site Prowess
Utah State university’s men’s basketball team is surging, showcasing a potent combination of defensive intensity and a remarkable ability to win on neutral ground. The Aggies prepare for a Saturday, Dec.13 showdown against Illinois State at the Delta Center in Salt Lake City, continuing a season marked by impressive statistics and historic achievements.
Aggies Thrive in Neutral Territory
Utah State has established itself as a formidable opponent in neutral-site games, boasting an 18-2 record in regular-season contests as the start of the 2021-22 season.This season alone, the team is a perfect 3-0 at neutral locations, securing victories over VCU (80-77) in Frisco, and Tulane (96-75) and Davidson (94-60) at the Charleston Classic. This consistent success away from home demonstrates the team’s resilience and adaptability.
Aggies Climb the Rankings
Starting the season unranked on Dec. 1, the Aggies have quickly climbed to No. 34. The Aggies are one of seven Mountain west (MW) teams currently ranked within the top 100, highlighting the conference’s growing strength and competitiveness.
Collins Jr. Makes History with 40-Point Performance
senior guard MJ Collins Jr. delivered a historic performance at the Charleston Classic, scoring 40 points against Davidson on Nov. 23 – a new tournament scoring record. This achievement marked the first time an Aggie player had surpassed 40 points in a single game since Jaycee Carroll in 2007, and only the 11th time in the program’s history.
Defensive dominance Fuels Success
Utah State’s success is largely attributed to its stifling defense. The team currently ranks fifth in the NCAA in steals, averaging an impressive 11.4 per contest. Mason Falslev and Drake Allen are leading the charge in takeaways,ranking eighth and 16th nationally,respectively,with 2.89 and 2.63 steals per game.
Allen: A Dual Threat on Both Ends
Drake Allen is proving to be a dynamic force for the Aggies,excelling in both offensive and defensive facets of the game. He currently ranks in the top-30 nationally in both assists (5.9 per game, 30th) and steals (2.63 per game, 16th). This versatility makes him a key component of Utah state’s overall strategy.
Statistical Breakdown: A Team Built for Success
Beyond steals, Utah State consistently ranks among the nation’s elite in numerous statistical categories. The Aggies currently hold top-75 rankings in:
- Turnovers Forced: 18th (16.56)
- Turnover Margin: 23rd (+5.7)
- Scoring Margin: 25th (+18.2)
- Field Goal Percentage: 25th (.507)
- Winning Percentage: 28th (.889)
- Assists: 29th (18.7)
- Fastbreak Points: 32nd (17.00)
- Field Goal Percentage Defense: 38th (.392)
- Scoring Defense: 46th (66.4 points allowed)
- Assist/Turnover Ratio: 48th (1.57)
- 3-Point Field Goal Defense: 63rd (.368)
- Scoring Offense: 65th (84.7 points per game)
these impressive statistics underscore Utah State’s well-rounded game and their commitment to excellence on both sides of the court. the Aggies’ continued success hinges on maintaining this high level of performance as thay navigate a challenging schedule.
