Lobo Basketball Fans Reflect on Pivotal 2002 Pit Game

Former coaches and players recall the impact of an overtime loss to Gonzaga that changed the trajectory of UNM's program.

Feb. 7, 2026 at 8:39am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a new retrospective, former University of New Mexico basketball coaches and players look back on a pivotal 2002 game against Gonzaga that took place at The Pit in Albuquerque. The overtime loss in front of a packed crowd of 17,000 Lobo fans is described as a 'turning point' that altered the recent history of the UNM basketball program.

Why it matters

The 2002 Pit game against Gonzaga is considered a watershed moment for UNM basketball, as it marked the beginning of a period of decline for the once-dominant Lobo program. Understanding the impact of this game provides important context about the challenges the team has faced in rebuilding and regaining its status as a regional powerhouse.

The details

In the 2002 matchup, the Lobos were leading Gonzaga late in regulation before the Bulldogs forced overtime and ultimately prevailed. Former UNM head coach Fran Fraschilla, assistant coach Craig Neal, and players like Ruben Douglas and Danny Granger reflect on how the tough loss deflated the team's momentum and began a downward spiral that took years to recover from.

  • The 2002 Pit game against Gonzaga took place on February 4, 2002.

The players

Fran Fraschilla

Former head coach of the University of New Mexico Lobos basketball team.

Craig Neal

Former assistant coach of the University of New Mexico Lobos basketball team.

Ruben Douglas

Former player for the University of New Mexico Lobos basketball team.

Danny Granger

Former player for the University of New Mexico Lobos basketball team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“That game was a real turning point for our program. We had the Zags on the ropes and let it slip away. It took us years to recover from that loss.”

— Fran Fraschilla, Former Head Coach

“We were so close to pulling off a huge upset in front of our home crowd. That loss really deflated us and changed the trajectory of the season.”

— Ruben Douglas, Former Player

The takeaway

The 2002 Pit game against Gonzaga stands out as a pivotal moment in recent University of New Mexico basketball history, as it marked the beginning of a prolonged period of struggle for a once-dominant program. Understanding the impact of this loss provides important context about the challenges the Lobos have faced in rebuilding and regaining their status as a regional powerhouse.