Utah State Tops San Diego State 73-62 to Win Mountain West Championship

MJ Collins Jr.'s late three-pointers spark a decisive run as Utah State defeats the Aztecs.

Mar. 15, 2026 at 1:49am

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Behind strong performances from MJ Collins Jr., Drake Allen, and Mason Falslev, the Utah State Aggies defeated the San Diego State Aztecs 73-62 to win the Mountain West Conference championship. The game marked the end of an era for both teams as they prepare to move to the Pac-12 conference.

Why it matters

This game was more than just a conference championship, it was the culmination of an era in the Mountain West for both Utah State and San Diego State before they move to the Pac-12. San Diego State had made 8 of the last 9 conference championships, but Utah State's late run proved too much for the Aztecs to handle.

The details

Utah State struck first with a three-pointer from Adlan Elamin and a steal and layup from Drake Allen to spark an early run. San Diego State kept the game close behind Reese Dixon-Waters, who scored 20 points, but Utah State pulled away late in the second half with a big run led by MJ Collins Jr., who hit back-to-back three-pointers. Collins Jr. finished with 20 points and was named the tournament MVP.

  • The game was played on March 15, 2026.
  • Utah State and San Diego State will both be moving to the Pac-12 conference after this season.

The players

MJ Collins Jr.

The tournament MVP who sparked Utah State's late run with back-to-back three-pointers.

Drake Allen

A key contributor for Utah State, scoring 13 points and grabbing 6 rebounds.

Mason Falslev

Recorded 6 assists and scored 16 points for the Aggies.

Reese Dixon-Waters

Led the Aztecs with 20 points, keeping San Diego State in the game.

BJ Davis Jr.

Scored 14 points for the Aztecs, finishing well through contact.

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What they’re saying

“It made me feel good. I got to chirping a little bit, but, you know, credit to coach, he always tells me to make the right read.”

— MJ Collins Jr. (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

As both programs prepare for the move to the Pac-12, Utah State walked away from its final chapter in the Mountain West with a trophy and momentum heading into the NCAA Tournament.

The takeaway

This game marked the end of an era for Utah State and San Diego State in the Mountain West Conference, with the Aggies emerging victorious and earning a spot in the NCAA Tournament as they prepare to join the Pac-12 next season.