WOMEN: NEW MEXICO AT UTAH STATE

Today, Dee Glen Smith Spectrum, 7 p.m. Online: TheMW.com. Radio: 610 AM/95.9 FM

What you need to know about Utah State: The Aggies have struggled mightily this season and offense is the primary reason. They average just 57.9 points per game and don’t have many perimeter shooting threats, allowing opponents to pack the paint against Utah State’s capable front line. Leading scorer West is by far Utah State’s best 3-point shooter, but MWC foes know it and have given her little breathing room recently. The youthful Aggies do play good defense and are battling San Jose State (3-9 MWC) and Air Force (2-10) for position at the bottom end of the Mountain West standings. Four of USU’s five wins have come at home, including conference victories over San Diego State, Nevada and Fresno State.

What you need to know about New Mexico: The Lobos will attempt to snap a five-game road losing streak while adjusting to life without guard Alex Lapeyrolerie. The 5-11 senior, who is one of UNM’s top perimeter shooters, suffered a torn left ACL in Saturday’s win over Air Force. New Mexico’s other guards will try to pick up the slack. Smith will move into the starting lineup, with Bryan and Washington likely to see extended minutes. Bryan has stepped up her play over the past four games, averaging 20 minutes and 7.5 points. Rebounding will be a key for the Lobos tonight against a tall Utah State front line. UNM outrebounded the Aggies 38-37 in the teams’ first meeting and won easily, 80-47.