As the San Diego State University (SDSU) Aztecs prepare to face the struggling Air Force Falcons, both teams enter this matchup under distinct narratives. This game marks the Mountain West conference opener for both squads, taking place at Viejas Arena on Wednesday night.
Background of Air Force Basketball
Air Force head coach Joe Scott is navigating significant challenges as he leads a young team. Currently, the Falcons boast an average of only 0.41 years of Division I basketball experience, ranking them 359th out of 365 programs nationally. The roster comprises nine freshmen, three sophomores, and four juniors, with no seniors in sight.
NIL and Transfer Struggles
The difficulties faced by Air Force can be attributed to the changes in college athletics, particularly surrounding the Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rules and the transfer portal. Unlike typical programs, the Falcons cannot benefit from NIL opportunities, as service academy students are classified as federal employees, preventing them from monetizing their athletic status.
- Air Force record since 2022: 9-22 and 4-28 in Mountain West games.
- Current season record: 3-8, with a KenPom ranking of No. 324.
- Past three seasons: Losses to multiple programs, including Clemson and Texas Tech.
Scott characterizes the shift from a traditional student-athlete model to one that emphasizes financial gain as a source of ongoing frustration. He emphasizes that the focus should remain on education and personal growth rather than converting college athletics into a professional sport.
Coaching Challenges
In the aftermath of NCAA policy changes allowing transfer students to join new programs without a mandatory year off, Scott’s team has struggled. Despite Scott’s past success with the Falcons, including a Mountain West championship season in 2004, his current roster has been significantly affected by player departures.
In contrast, teams like San Diego State and New Mexico have capitalized on the current landscape of college basketball, often replenishing their rosters effectively when players leave. As Scott notes, “They don’t take a dip. San Diego State doesn’t take a dip.”
Looking Ahead
The Aztecs are entering this game with a record of 5-3, showing a blend of talent and experience. The outcome of this contest is crucial not only for conference standings but also for the momentum it could provide each team as they navigate their respective challenges this season.
As the Air Force Falcons continue to adapt and learn under Scott’s leadership, they remain committed to their values and the foundation of their academy. Despite facing what seems like an uphill battle in the current collegiate landscape, the team is determined to rise and compete.
