New Mexico State downs Utah State 80-69

LOGAN, Utah (AP) — Wendell McKines scored 20 points and grabbed a game-high nine rebounds to lead New Mexico State past Utah State 80-69 on Saturday.

Hernst Laroche scored 16 points and had seven assists for New Mexico State (18-8, 7-3 WAC).

Utah State (13-13, 5-6) was led by Preston Medlin with 16 points, while Danny Berger had a career-high 14 points.

Kyisean Reed hit a free throw to put Utah State up 66-65 with 5:55 remaining. Utah State went on a scoring drought and watched New Mexico State unleash a 15-3 run to ensure the win.

New Mexico State was sparked by LaRoche, who blocked a 3-point attempt by Medlin, stole the ball and made a layup with 2:30 remaining. Utah State had four turnovers in the final 2:20.

New Mexico State outrebounded its opponent 34-21 and had nine steals.