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