The New Mexico State women’s basketball team proved resilient in its first-round matchup of the Women’s National Invitation Tournament (WNIT), securing a 54-49 victory over Pacific despite the absence of their star player, Molly Kaiser, on March 20, 2025.
Kaiser, the Conference USA Player of the Year, missed the game due to an ankle injury sustained in the CUSA Tournament quarterfinals against Louisiana Tech the previous week. Her absence left a significant gap in the Aggies' lineup, yet the team managed to rally without her, showcasing their depth and determination.
The first half saw NM State struggle offensively, hitting only six field goals and shooting just 19.4 percent from the field. They trailed 27-16 at halftime, prompting concern among fans. However, the tide turned in the third quarter. The Aggies ignited a remarkable comeback, starting with a stunning 9-0 run that energized the squad and their supporters.
In this pivotal frame, NM State outscored the Tigers 25-8, erasing their halftime deficit and entering the fourth quarter with a 41-34 lead. This offensive surge was largely thanks to the relentless efforts of Sylena Peterson and Fanta Gassama. Peterson led the Aggies with 13 points on 5-for-12 shooting, providing critical scoring at various stages of the game.
Gassama, who secured her ninth double-double of the season with 12 points and a game-high 11 rebounds, delivered key plays down the stretch. One crucial moment was her and-one basket with a free throw that extended NM State’s lead to 53-49 with just 29 seconds left on the clock. Gassama received a perfectly timed pass from Imani Warren under the basket, allowing her to score with contact, a testament to her tenacity and skill.
Despite their late-game challenges, Pacific couldn’t capitalize, remaining scoreless in the final minutes and missing their last four shots. The Aggies cemented their victory by effectively managing the closing moments of the game, showcasing not only their scoring capability but also defensive discipline.
In addition to Peterson and Gassama’s standout performances, Jaila Harding contributed 10 points, furthering the balanced offensive effort needed to secure the victory. The team displayed remarkable teamwork and resolve, illustrating their readiness for future challenges.
Following this win, NM State confirmed its place in the next round of the WNIT, where they will face North Dakota State, a team boasting a solid 19-11 record. The matchup is scheduled for March 24, 2025, at 5 p.m. The Bison received a first-round bye and will present a new set of challenges for the Aggies.
The thrill of advancing in the postseason is palpable among NM State supporters, especially given the weight of this victory without one of their key players. Head coach and players alike have expressed a mix of determination and confidence as they prepare for the upcoming game against North Dakota State, knowing they can rely on their entire roster to step up when necessary.
This first-round win is not just a testament to the team’s skill but also a reflection of their heart to overcome adversity. For NM State women’s basketball, the journey continues, and it’s one that has already captivated fans as they strive to make a deeper run in the tournament.
