TAKEAWAYS – Panthers Drop Nailbiter To Undefeated Aggies

MIAMI, FL – It was going to be a tough night from the start. The New Mexico State Aggies only allow 68.1 points per game, the third lowest amongst the conference.

On top of that, the Panthers played in front of a packed house with FIU head coach Willie Simmons and his entire staff present to watch the game.

After trailing by as much as 12, the Panthers went on an 8-0 to keep it close, but unfortunately lost by a final score of 59-52.

Early Turnovers Reason For Early Deficiency

The Panthers were playing too quickly, it’s as simple as that. In the first half alone, FIU turned the ball over six times, with the Aggies putting up ten points off the turnovers.

FIU finished the night with 14 turnovers which allowed New Mexico State to make 18 points.

Troubles From Beyond The Arc Return

Despite improvements from the three-point line, FIU still ranked dead last amongst the conference in three-point percentage.

On Thursday night, the Panthers went 2-13 (15.4%), which is their lowest mark since 11/22/2024 against Northeastern.

Vianney Salatchoum’s Return Was Known

After missing the last two games due to a knee injury, Panthers center Vianney Salatchoum returned to the starting five and had his first double-double of the season.

He dropped 13 points, and 11 rebounds and went 4-9 from the field.

Jayden Brewer With A Flashy Night

After missing some time due to an illness, Jayden Brewer made his return to the lineup against the Western Kentucky Hilltoppers but only dropped seven points.

After that, Brewer dropped 15 points against Louisiana Tech, 20 points against Sam Houston State, and 13 points against the Aggies.

What’s Next?

With the loss, FIU falls to 7-11 and 1-4 in conference play. The Panthers will welcome the UTEP Miners, who recently defeated the Liberty Flames. The game will take place on Saturday, January 18th at 2pm.