Lobo Freshman Jake Hall Stays at UNM

Star player decides to remain with Lobos after brief transfer portal stint

Apr. 17, 2026 at 7:48pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball player's jump shot broken down into overlapping planes of cherry red, silver, and navy blue, representing the University of New Mexico Lobos team colors.Jake Hall's decision to stay with the Lobos keeps one of the Mountain West's top young talents in Albuquerque for another season.Albuquerque Today

Albuquerque Lobo freshman Jake Hall has decided to stay at the University of New Mexico for the 2026-27 season, withdrawing from the NCAA transfer portal just one week after entering it. Hall led the Lobos in scoring last season and was named Mountain West Freshman of the Year.

Why it matters

Keeping Hall, one of the top young talents in the Mountain West, is a major boost for the Lobos as they look to build on last season's success. His decision to remain in Albuquerque comes just one day after his younger brother Dax also committed to play for UNM, signaling the family's commitment to the program.

The details

Hall, a 6'5" guard, averaged 16.4 points per game last season and set the Mountain West single-season record for three-pointers made. He was named to the All-Mountain West First Team and Freshman of the Year. After entering the transfer portal last week, Hall ultimately decided to stay with the Lobos, citing his strong connection to the team and the city of Albuquerque.

  • Jake Hall entered the NCAA transfer portal less than a week ago.
  • Hall announced his decision to remain at UNM one day after his younger brother Dax committed to the Lobos.

The players

Jake Hall

A 6'5" freshman guard who led the Lobos in scoring last season and was named Mountain West Freshman of the Year.

Dax Hall

Jake Hall's younger brother, who recently committed to play for the University of New Mexico.

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What they’re saying

“Albuquerque has become a second home to me, and I'm excited to keep building with this team and this community.”

— Jake Hall, Lobo Freshman

What’s next

Hall's decision to stay with the Lobos solidifies the team's backcourt for the 2026-27 season as they look to build on last year's success and compete for a Mountain West title.

The takeaway

Jake Hall's choice to remain at UNM despite interest from other programs demonstrates the strong connection between the talented freshman and the Lobos basketball program, as well as the appeal of Albuquerque and the Mountain West conference for top young talent.