The Boise State men’s basketball team faced a challenging defeat against the Grand Canyon Lopes on January 3, 2024, suffering their second consecutive loss in Mountain West Conference play. The Broncos, now with a record of 9-6 overall and 1-3 in the conference, fell to the Lopes with a final score of 75-58 at ExtraMile Arena.
After trailing 37-27 at halftime, Boise State quickly found themselves down by 18 points in the second half. Although they managed to reduce the deficit to just four points at one stage, the Lopes responded effectively, closing out the game decisively. The Broncos struggled offensively, shooting 34.7 percent from the floor (17 of 49) and a mere 21.1 percent from three-point range (4 of 19). Despite a commendable performance at the free-throw line, converting 20 of 25 attempts (80 percent), the team’s overall execution left much to be desired.
Coach Rice’s Honest Assessment
Following the game, head coach Leon Rice did not hold back in his critique of the team’s performance. He acknowledged the competitive spirit displayed by Grand Canyon, stating, “Credit Grand Canyon. They came out with some desperation.” Rice noted that his team appeared unprepared for the intensity, saying, “We came with like ‘OK, we’re going to play basketball, but we’re not going to fight.’ We were the softest I’ve seen us be this year.”
Rice emphasized the need for his players to exhibit greater toughness and determination. He remarked on the rebounding disparity, with Boise State being outmatched 38-28, and highlighted the Lopes’ aggressive play style. “They were a step faster than us, they were a step tougher than us,” he said.
The coach pointed out specific moments during the game that reflected a lack of strategic execution. “It was really disappointing because we’ve responded to some tough situations. Tonight, no, we did not,” Rice expressed, reflecting on his expectations for the team to show resilience.
Missed Opportunities and Future Focus
Rice also criticized the decision-making of his guards, particularly referencing Jaden Henley of Grand Canyon, who effectively controlled the game pace. “You look at their guard, he dribbles the whole possession, and he knows how to get fouled,” Rice explained. He urged his players to take advantage of their bonus free-throw opportunities instead of settling for difficult shots.
The coach’s comments underscore the need for tactical improvements as the Broncos prepare for upcoming games. With a record that now includes two losses in a row, the focus will be on regaining their competitive edge and sharpening their gameplay to navigate the remainder of the season effectively.
As Boise State looks ahead, the challenge will be to translate Rice’s insights into actionable strategies on the court, ensuring that the team returns to its winning form in the competitive landscape of the Mountain West Conference.