Air Force Falcons Face Off Against New Mexico Lobos in Mountain West Clash

Both teams look to improve conference standing in crucial late-season matchup

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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The New Mexico Lobos (18-9, 10-6 Mountain West) host the Air Force Falcons (12-14, 6-10 Mountain West) in a crucial Mountain West Conference matchup at The Pit in Albuquerque. The Lobos enter the game on a one-game winning streak, while the Falcons aim to rebound from a recent loss. This contest holds significant implications for the teams' positioning in the conference standings as the regular season nears its conclusion.

Why it matters

This game is crucial for both teams as they look to improve their standing in the competitive Mountain West Conference. The Lobos, currently sixth in the MWC, are seeking to maintain their momentum at home, while the Falcons hope to climb the standings with a road victory.

The details

The Lobos are led by Destinee Hooks, who averages 12.8 points per game, and Jessie Joaquim, who contributes 6.92 rebounds per game. Air Force will rely on the scoring prowess of Milahnie Perry, who leads the team with 17.6 points per game, and the all-around contributions of Jayda McNabb. The Falcons have struggled on the road, while the Lobos aim to protect their home court advantage.

  • The game will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026 at 3:00 PM ET.

The players

Destinee Hooks

A key player for the New Mexico Lobos, averaging 12.8 points per game.

Jessie Joaquim

Contributes significantly to the Lobos' rebounding efforts, averaging 6.92 rebounds per game.

Milahnie Perry

The leading scorer for the Air Force Falcons, averaging 17.6 points per game.

Jayda McNabb

A versatile player for the Falcons, leading the team in rebounds, assists, and steals.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The outcome of this game will have implications for both teams' postseason aspirations, as they continue their pursuit of favorable seeding in the upcoming Mountain West Tournament.

The takeaway

This matchup between the New Mexico Lobos and Air Force Falcons is a crucial late-season conference clash, with both teams looking to improve their standing in the competitive Mountain West. The game promises an exciting and hard-fought battle as the teams vie for crucial conference positioning.