Aztecs make Wolf Pack howl

San Diego State came out ready to play against the Wolf Pack, with its defense as the greatest proof.  The University of Nevada, Reno was unable to score in the first nine minutes of the game, allowing SDSU to find its groove early and jump out to a 19-0 lead.

In the first half, the Aztecs forced 12 turnovers, in addition to eight steals and five blocks.  The second half was more of the same, with Nevada giving up 11 more turnovers and allowing the Aztecs to convert 16 points from them.

Hopkins sets records

SDSU senior point guard and Mountain West Conference Player of the Year Chelsea Hopkins put on a show in Thursday night’s game against Nevada, dissecting the Wolf Pack’s defense and finding her teammates for easy buckets. SDSU made 12 field goals in the first half and Hopkins assisted on every single one of them.

“I felt like there were really easy opportunities for my teammates, so I’m not going to force a shot when we could easily have a layup,” Hopkins said.  “I take whatever the defense gives me. This time, it was assists.”

Her 14 assists set the new record for the Mountain West Tournament. Hopkins also finished with four points and six rebounds.