Fresh off a 15-point victory over Bryant on Sunday, highlighted by a standout 22-point performance from Noel Brown, St. Bonaventure now faces a stiffer challenge: an undefeated Utah State squad. This matchup, our Mid-Major Basketball Game of the Week, is set for 5:30 p.m. ET Thursday in the ESPN NIT Season Tip-Off in Kissimmee, Florida.
Currently atop the Mountain West Conference, Utah State enters the game with momentum after an impressive eight-point victory against Iowa. The Aggies are ranked No. 45 nationally by KenPom, a leading resource for advanced basketball analytics, while the Bonnies sit at No. 107. Known as one of the premier mid-major programs in the country, Utah State represents St. Bonaventure’s toughest test so far this season.
While Bryant gave the Bonnies some trouble early on, Utah State’s dynamic guard play and team efficiency will present a significantly tougher challenge. Senior guard Ian Martinez leads the Aggies with 20.8 points, 4.2 assists and 4.0 rebounds per game while shooting an impressive 50% from the field. Sophomore Mason Falslev has been equally effective, contributing 15.2 points, 4.6 rebounds and 3.6 assists per game while connecting on 59.3% of his shots. Both guards play with high energy and precision, making them key players to watch.
Utah State’s offensive efficiency is a hallmark of their success. The Aggies are shooting 53.8% from the field, 41.6% from 3-point range and 74.8% from the free-throw line. These numbers could prove problematic for St. Bonaventure if they fall behind. By comparison, the Bonnies are shooting 47.4% overall, 32.1% from 3 and 69.8% at the line. For St. Bonaventure to keep pace, they’ll need to find ways to slow down Utah State’s fast-paced attack while improving their offensive output.
Senior transfer Chance Moore has been a revelation for the Bonnies, leading the team in scoring (16.2), rebounding (8.0) and blocks (1.3) per game. Moore’s ability to step up in big moments will be crucial in Thursday’s game.
Against Bryant, the Bonnies showcased balanced scoring, with Brown (22), Melvin Council Jr. (18), LaJae Jones (13) and Moore (12) all reaching double figures. The team posted an impressive 85 points, a repeat of which will be vital to challenge Utah State.
If St. Bonaventure can replicate Sunday’s offensive effort and tighten up defensively against Utah State’s sharpshooters, fans can expect an exciting Thanksgiving showdown.
