Phoenix, AZ, February 11, 2026
Grand Canyon University men’s basketball team prepares to face the New Mexico Lobos in a crucial Mountain West Conference game. After a recent loss and an earlier defeat to the Lobos, the Lopes aim to bounce back on their home court. This matchup at the Global Credit Union Arena holds significance as GCU looks to improve its conference standings and celebrate a milestone for head coach Bryce Drew. The game promises an energized atmosphere with strong fan support and key performances from standout players.
Phoenix, AZ —
Lopes Seek Redemption in Pivotal Lobos Showdown
Grand Canyon University Men’s Basketball Hosts New Mexico in Crucial Conference Battle
Tonight marks a significant moment for Grand Canyon University (GCU) men’s basketball as the Lopes host the New Mexico Lobos in a highly anticipated Mountain West Conference matchup. The Lopes are eager to find a “redeeming quality” on their home court after a recent hard-fought loss and an earlier, lopsided defeat against these same Lobos. This evening’s contest at the Global Credit Union Arena is more than just another game; it’s an opportunity for GCU to assert its competitive drive, climb the conference standings, and celebrate a potential milestone for head coach Bryce Drew. The energy from the loyal Havocs is expected to be a major factor in this crucial Phoenix college basketball event.
The pursuit of redemption stems from two recent outcomes. Just this past Saturday, February 7, the Lopes experienced a narrow 80-78 defeat at UNLV, a game where a furious late rally nearly secured an improbable comeback. While the team showcased resilience in the face of a 16-point deficit, ultimately falling short underscored the need for a more consistent performance. More significantly, the Lopes carry the memory of an 87-64 rout by New Mexico on January 13 at The Pit, a contest that served as GCU’s most lopsided loss of the season. Tonight’s rematch offers a prime chance to demonstrate growth and competitive fortitude.
Lopes’ Resilience Tested on Home Court
GCU Looks to Maintain Strong Home Record Against Fierce Competition
Grand Canyon University enters tonight’s contest with a commendable 15-8 overall record and an 8-4 standing in the Mountain West Conference, while the visiting Lobos boast an 18-6 overall record and a 9-4 conference mark. A victory for the Lopes could see them leapfrog New Mexico in the intensely competitive conference standings, highlighting the high stakes involved in this Arizona sports economy staple. This game also presents Head Coach Bryce Drew with the chance to secure his 300th career win, a testament to his consistent leadership and the program’s upward trajectory.
GCU’s strength at home cannot be overstated. The Lopes hold an impressive 11-2 record in Phoenix this season and have notched five consecutive home conference wins. Historically, the all-time series between GCU and New Mexico stands at 5-1 in favor of the Lobos, with a notable pattern: the home team has emerged victorious in all six previous matchups. This statistic underscores the powerful advantage of playing in front of the home crowd, and the Havocs are known for creating an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams. The Lopes also possess a remarkable ability to bounce back, holding a perfect 7-0 record in games immediately following a loss this season, a trend they aim to continue tonight.
Key players will be pivotal in determining the outcome. For the Lopes, graduate power forward Nana Owusu-Anane ranks third in the Mountain West for rebounds per game with 8.3 and sixth for blocks per game with 0.96. Junior guard Jaden Henley, another offensive powerhouse, ranks sixth in the Mountain West for points per game, averaging 17.1. Henley’s impact is clear, as the Lopes are 6-0 when he scores 20 or more points. Their performance, particularly their shooting percentages, significantly correlates with team wins versus losses, emphasizing the need for both players to perform at their peak.
The New Mexico Lobos, despite their strong record, are arriving in Phoenix smarting from two consecutive home losses against Utah State and Boise State. They will be eager to reverse their recent fortunes. Their roster features multiple offensive threats, including freshman guard Jake Hall, who averages 15.5 points per game and is on the verge of setting a Mountain West freshman record for three-pointers. Senior guard Luke Haupt recently delivered a career-high 30 points against Boise State, showcasing the Lobos’ diverse scoring capabilities. The Lopes will need to be physically dominant on the boards, especially against a Lobos team that is the Mountain West’s number one defensive rebounding team.
Broader Athletic Success and Community Impact
GCU’s Commitment to Excellence Extends Beyond the Court
While tonight’s men’s basketball game captures immediate attention, Grand Canyon University’s athletic programs as a whole continue to demonstrate widespread success. The women’s basketball team, for instance, also has an upcoming challenge against New Mexico on February 18, 2026. They previously secured a decisive 75-62 victory over the Lobos on January 17, 2026, at The Pit, showcasing their own competitive strength. Furthermore, GCU women’s basketball notably holds the nation’s longest winning streak at 25 games, a testament to their sustained excellence and the university’s commitment to building championship-caliber programs across various sports.
In a significant development reflecting the evolving landscape of college athletics, Grand Canyon University recently submitted its notice of intent to the NCAA to opt into the proposed House settlement. This decision, if granted final court approval, will enable GCU to provide direct Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) payments to student-athletes and offer additional scholarships. This strategic move underscores the university’s dedication to remaining nationally competitive and supporting its student-athletes, drawing on existing and new streams of athletic-related revenue without impacting student tuition. Such private initiative ensures that Phoenix college sports remain vibrant and competitive on a national scale.
Catalyst for Growth: GCU’s Economic and Community Footprint
University’s Free-Market Principles Drive Regional Prosperity and Self-Reliance
Grand Canyon University stands as a vital economic engine and a beacon of community self-reliance within Phoenix and the broader Arizona landscape. The university’s operations, driven by a commitment to free-market principles and responsible growth, generate a substantial annual economic impact. According to a 2020 study by Elliott Pollack & Co., GCU and its partners contribute an estimated $2.1 billion annually to the local economy. Another study by Jim Rounds reported $2.8 billion in economic output each year. This significant contribution supports over 21,248 full-time equivalent jobs across Arizona, fueling prosperity and providing vital employment opportunities within the region.
GCU’s growth model, which strategically utilizes initial capital from public markets rather than state taxpayer dollars, has enabled a remarkable $1.9 billion investment into its academic infrastructure over the past 17 years. This includes the development of new classrooms, laboratories, residence halls, athletic venues, and other student amenities, all without burdening students with tuition increases on the Phoenix campus for 17 consecutive years. This entrepreneurial approach to higher education demonstrates a commitment to affordability and accessibility, critical components of community strength and economic mobility.
Beyond campus borders, GCU actively champions community revitalization through private initiative and collaborative efforts. The CityServe partnership, for example, has distributed over $15.3 million worth of essential goods to more than 74,514 families in need since September 2021. This effort, largely powered by GCU student, staff, and external volunteers, exemplifies local self-reliance and direct community support. Furthermore, the Neighborhood Safety Initiative, in partnership with Habitat for Humanity, has channeled over $6.2 million and 39,100 volunteer hours into renovating more than 604 homes in the surrounding community. These efforts have directly contributed to an astounding 869% increase in median home values within the 85017 ZIP code since 2011, showcasing the tangible benefits of focused private investment and community engagement.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum in Phoenix
Tonight’s men’s basketball game against the New Mexico Lobos is more than just a contest; it is a vivid illustration of Grand Canyon University’s ongoing commitment to competitive excellence, prudent growth, and robust community engagement. As the Lopes strive for victory and a strong finish in the Mountain West Conference, their efforts reflect a broader narrative of an institution that is actively contributing to the vitality of the Phoenix community, both on and off the court. The university’s model of private investment and community self-reliance continues to serve as a blueprint for responsible growth in Arizona. We encourage all residents to follow the exciting developments in Grand Canyon University AZ athletics and support the student-athletes who represent our city with such dedication and perseverance. Your engagement strengthens the spirit of Phoenix college basketball and contributes to a thriving local sports scene.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the Grand Canyon University men’s basketball game against New Mexico Lobos?
- The Grand Canyon University men’s basketball game against New Mexico Lobos is on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, at 8 p.m.
- Where will the GCU vs. New Mexico men’s basketball game be played?
- The GCU vs. New Mexico men’s basketball game will be played at the Global Credit Union Arena in Phoenix, AZ.
- What was the result of the previous men’s basketball game between GCU and New Mexico?
- New Mexico defeated GCU 87-64 on January 13, 2026, at The Pit.
- What is GCU’s home record this men’s basketball season?
- GCU’s men’s basketball team holds an 11-2 record at home this season.
- What is the economic impact of Grand Canyon University on Arizona?
- Grand Canyon University, along with its partners, creates an annual economic impact of $2.1 billion (2020 study) or $2.8 billion (Rounds study) and supports over 21,248 full-time equivalent jobs locally and throughout Arizona.
- Has GCU opted into the
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