New Mexico Lobos Overview

Fast facts

League: Division I (NCAA)

Head Coach: Richard Pitino

Team Mascot: Lobo Louie

Year Opened: 1966

Capacity: 15411

City / State: Albuquerque / New Mexico

Rivalries & Top Games to Attend

Rio Grande Rivalry

Rival Team: New Mexico State Aggies

The rivalry between New Mexico and New Mexico State is older than the state of New Mexico, dating back to 1894. One of the unique things about this series is the fact the two schools are non-conference opponents yet typically play a home and home each season. The Lobos lead the all-time series 120-96, and you’ll be in for a treat when attending a New Mexico-New Mexico State game.

New Mexico vs Arizona

Rival Team: Arizona Wildcats

The Lobos and Wildcats recently renewed their rivalry creating a can’t miss matchup for any hoops fans in the southwest. The Lobos and Wildcats last played in 1999 prior to the 2016 season, but you’ll struggle to find a better matchup in the southwest than New Mexico-Arizona, so make sure to get your tickets when the Wildcats come to town.

New Mexico vs San Diego State

Rival Team: San Diego State Aztecs

New Mexico and San Diego State are two of the top teams in the Mountain West, so you better believe you’ll be in for quite the show when these two meet. Not only are bragging rights on the line when the Lobos and Aztecs square off, but conference supremacy is also on the line as well. If you want to attend one of the biggest Mountain West Conference matchups of the year, don’t miss New Mexico-San Diego State.

New Mexico vs UTEP

Rival Team: UTEP Miners

New Mexico and nearby UTEP have a fierce rivalry that will provide a fun game for any college hoops fan. New Mexico-UTEP may not be the first rivalry people think of when they think of college basketball, but that doesn’t mean you won’t find an intense atmosphere in The Pit for this one.

New Mexico Lobos Stadium Guide

In Game

The Pit is one of the loudest and most raucous venues in all of college basketball making it a must-see for any college hoops fan. You won’t find a better basketball venue in the southwest, and you’ll experience an unforgettable one of a kind atmosphere at a New Mexico basketball game.

The atmosphere inside The Pit is insane and is primarily responsible for the success the Lobos have had over the years. New Mexico has won over 80 percent of their home games since The Pit opened in 1966, so you better believe that the crowd plays an important part in a Lobos basketball game. Everyone in the arena will be decked out in red and cheering their lungs out for the Lobos, so come prepared to get loud and join in on the fun.

The Pit underwent major renovations in 2010, so not only will you experience a great atmosphere when attending a New Mexico basketball game, but you’ll also get to watch a Lobos game in style. The renovations added 40 suites and 365 club seats meaning those of you who want a premium in-game experience will find one here at New Mexico.

You’ll also find plenty of places to eat and drink near The Pit. The Pit is located on the University of New Mexico’s south campus near University Stadium and Isotopes Park, so there are lots of options nearby. Quarters BBQ is an excellent stop for barbecue lovers, and Frontier Restaurant is an Albuquerque tradition that anyone visiting should experience at least once.

The Pit should be on the bucket list of any college hoops fan, so if you’re in Albuquerque then make sure to stop by and take in a game at The Pit.

Things to check out

Lobo Statues

You’ll find several Lobos statues around the University of New Mexico campus, including one outside of The Pit. The statues present excellent photo opportunities, so explore the campus and get pictures with as many as possible.

Red Menace

Known as the Red Menace, the New Mexico student section creates a hostile environment each game. These are the most die hard fans in the arena and are what gives The Pit its reputation, so if you’re looking to cheer hard for Lobos then join the Red Menace.

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Lobo Louie and Lobo Lucy

Keep an eye out for Lobo Louie and Lobo Lucy at a New Mexico basketball game. The two beloved mascots entertain the crowd throughout the game. The mascots do an excellent job of interacting with fans, so don’t miss them during your visit.

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Standing to Start the Half

Everyone in The Pit remains standing and clapping until both teams score in each half. The tradition is an excellent way to put pressure on opponents who struggle to score, so come prepared to stand for a while before each team scores.

Lobo Howl

The annual Lobo Howl takes place on the first day teams are allowed to practice and is a fun event for any Lobos fan to attend. The event is a great way to see the team before the season starts as well as a good place to get autographs, so check it out if you’re in town.

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Soundpack

New Mexico is home to one of the best pep bands in the Mountain West Conference. Soundpack plays a big part in creating the incredible atmosphere found inside The Pit and is a can’t miss aspect of any Lobos basketball game.

Fight Songs

  1. Hail, New Mexico

    Hail to thee, New Mexico,
    Thy loyal sons are we.
    Marching down the field we go,
    Fighting for thee.
    RAH! RAH! RAH!

    Now we pledge our faith to thee,
    Never shall we fail.
    Fighting ever, yielding never.
    HAIL! HAIL! HAIL!

    Repeat 

  2. Everyone’s a Lobo Chant

    One of the signature cheers you’ll hear in The Pit is the Everyone’s a Lobo chant. Fans chant, “Everyone’s a Lobo, Woof, Woof, Woof!” while making a wolf hand gesture. Join in on the cheer to show off your Lobos pride when attending a New Mexico game.

    Everyone’s a Lobo!

    Everyone’s a Lobo!

    Everyone’s a Lobo!

New Mexico Lobos Bars & Restaurants

  1. Saggios

    Saggios

    Choose from gourmet pizzas big and flavorful calzones, tasty sandwiches, salads, pasta and desserts. Beer and wine is served and if you have a craving for something sweet, try a piece of cheesecake.

    107 Cornell Dr SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-255-5454

    Bar website

    italian - pizza - sportsbar - $$

  2. Nob Hill

    Nob Hill fries

    NHBG is a vibrant and cozy neighborhood restaurant without the typical neighborhood food, known for its award-winning burgers. However, that is just the beginning of our story.

    3128 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-266-4455

    Bar website

    american - $$

  3. Zacatecas

    Zacatecas drink

    Zacatecas is an authentic Mexican taqueria in the heart of Nob Hill.

    3423 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-255-8226

    Bar website

    mexican - $$

  4. Zinc Wine Bar & Bistro

    Zinc Wine Bar and Bistro

    Zinc offers a formal yet relaxed atmosphere where diners can enjoy a quick bite with a glass of wine or settle in for a truly exquisite dining experience.

    3009 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-254-9462 (ZINC)

    Bar website

    american - $$

  5. Monte Vista

    Monte Vista tacos

    Located in the historic Nob Hill neighborhood, the Monte Vista Fire Station is more than just a restaurant but rather your place for food, fun and spirits.

    3201 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-255-2424

    Bar website

    american - $$

  6. Flying Star Cafe

    Flying Star Cafe

    We’re the place for handmade bakery desserts, fresh roasted coffee, and homemade breakfast, lunch and dinner all day long.

    3416 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-255-1128

    Bar website

    american - $$

  7. Two Fools

    Two Fools

    Two Fools Tavern is an unrelenting dream finally realized by folks who had a desire to bring a real Irish pub and eating establishment to Albuquerque, New Mexico.

    3211 Central Ave NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-265-7447

    Bar website

    european - $$

  8. Village Inn

    Village Inn breakfast

    Enjoy great-tasting food and extra-friendly service in a clean and comfortable family environment.

    2340 Yale Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-243-5476

    Bar website

    american - $$

  9. Frontier Restaurant

    Frontier Restaurant

    Serves great breakfasts, burritos, burgers, roasted green chile, homemade flour tortillas, fresh squeezed orange juice, and the famous Frontier Sweet Roll.

    2400 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-266-0550

    Bar website

    american - mexican - $

  10. Dion’s

    Dions

    ​At Dion’s we provide great food and a place for people to relax and connect with family and friends. We create ease, simplicity, and connection amidst the hustle and bustle of busy lives.

    11000 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123, USA

    505-296-0771

    Bar website

    pizza - $

  11. The Quarters BBQ

    The Quarters BBQ

    From BBQ ribs to mac n' cheese, we have something to satisfy any craving.

    801 Yale Blvd SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-843-6949 / 843-7505

    Bar website

    bbq - $$

  12. Scalo Northern Italian Grill

    Scalo Northern Italian Grill

    Amazing food and drinks, with great atmosphere and excellent service!

    3500 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-255-8781 / 505-265-7850

    Bar website

    italian - $$

  13. Carraro’s Pizza & Italian Restaurant

    Carraros Pizza Italian Restaurant

    Casual dining with a lively night life.

    108 Vassar Dr SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-268-2300

    Bar website

    pizza - $

  14. P’tit Louis Bistro

    P’tit Louis Bistro

    P'tit Louis Bistro transports you back to the center of Paris, France, in the 1920's, where French Cuisine is expertly prepared for your pleasure.

    4940 Corrales Rd STE 400, Corrales, NM 87004, USA

    505-314-1110

    Bar website

    european - $$

  15. Brickyard Pizza

    Brickyard Pizza

    Great pizza, cool beers and spirits!

    2216 Central Ave SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-262-2216

    Bar website

    pizza - $

  16. Golden Pride BBQ

    Golden Pride BBQ

    Golden Pride carries the Frontier's famous Sweet Rolls, Tortillas, Green Chile Stew & Posolé

    1830 Lomas Blvd NE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-242-2181

    Bar website

    bbq - $

  17. El Patio De Albuquerque

    El Patio De Albuquerque_

    El Patio de Albuquerque Restaurant has been serving the finest traditional northern New Mexican cooking since 1977.

    142 Harvard Dr SE, Albuquerque, NM 87106, USA

    505-268-4245

    Bar website

    mexican - $$