The San Diego State University (SDSU) women’s basketball team is set to host Hawai’i on Saturday at 3:30 p.m. in their final non-conference game of the season. With a record of 10-2, the Aztecs are aiming to continue their impressive run and secure their most non-conference wins since the 1983-84 season.
As always, Etruesports is here to deliver a detailed analysis of the game and the Aztecs’ performance, showcasing their strengths and key players to watch.
Aztecs Seek Historic Non-Conference Victory
Impressive Non-Conference Record
SDSU’s 10 non-conference wins are the most for the program since the 2011-12 season. A victory on Saturday would mark their best non-conference record since the 1983-84 team’s perfect 13-0 run.
Their last game, a hard-fought double-overtime loss to Stephen F. Austin, snapped their nearly year-long home winning streak. Despite the loss, the Aztecs continue to build on a season marked by resilience and balanced team play.
Standout Team and Player Performances
Bench Power and Offensive Depth
SDSU leads the nation in bench scoring, averaging 36.8 points per game from their reserves. Against Stephen F. Austin, the bench scored 47 points, the highest this season against a Division I opponent.
Key bench contributors include:
- Adryana Quezada: Averaging 10.8 points per game
- Naomi Panganiban: Averaging 9.8 points per game
- Nat Martinez: Averaging 9.4 points per game
Seven Aztecs are averaging between seven and 11 points per game, showcasing remarkable depth and versatility.
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Defensive Prowess and Shooting Efficiency
SDSU leads the Mountain West in three-point percentage (37.3%) and ranks second in points allowed per game (58.4). They are also among the national leaders in turnover margin (+7.1), consistently outplaying opponents in ball control.
Players to Watch
Rising Stars
- Naomi Panganiban has been a standout, earning Mountain West Freshman of the Week honors. She’s averaging 21.7 points over her last three games, including an 18-point effort against Stephen F. Austin.
- Nat Martinez delivered 21 points in their last game, marking her second 20-point performance of the season.
Veteran Leadership
- Adryana Quezada has surpassed 1,400 career points and 700 rebounds, a feat achieved by only six players nationally.
- Kim Villalobos is one of just seven players in the nation with over 1,000 points, 700 rebounds, 200 assists, 150 steals, and 75 blocks in her career.
Hawai’i Preview
The Rainbow Wahine enter the game with a 6-3 record, known for their stifling defense, which ranks top 10 nationally in field goal percentage defense (32.8%) and blocks per game (6.9).
Key Player
Lily Wahinekapu leads Hawai’i with 11.1 points per game, providing a consistent scoring presence for the team.
Series History and What to Expect
San Diego State holds a 15-13 lead in the all-time series against Hawai’i and has been dominant at home with a 9-5 record. The teams last faced off in 2019, with Hawai’i narrowly edging out a 61-58 win.
Etruesports Analysis
The Aztecs’ impressive depth and ability to perform on both ends of the court position them as strong contenders in this matchup. Etruesports will continue to monitor and report on SDSU’s journey, bringing fans the latest updates and expert analysis.
Stay tuned to Etruesports for comprehensive coverage of the Aztecs and their quest for success this season.