Albuquerque, NM, January 17, 2026
This Saturday, the Grand Canyon University Lopes women’s basketball team will take on the New Mexico Lobos in a critical Mountain West Conference matchup. This game, broadcast nationally on FS1, is significant as it marks the Lopes’ first appearance on FS1 and presents an opportunity to solidify their standing in the conference. Both teams currently hold a 4-3 record, and the winner will gain a crucial advantage in the league as they aim for a better position in the championship race.
Phoenix, AZ — A highly anticipated women’s basketball matchup is set to elevate the national profile of Grand Canyon University (GCU) Athletics this Saturday, January 17, as the Lopes square off against the New Mexico Lobos. This contest, broadcast nationally on FS1, represents a significant opportunity for both institutions to demonstrate athletic prowess and the value of competitive collegiate sports on a broader stage.
This critical Mountain West Conference game is more than just a battle for league standings; it underscores the growing prominence of Phoenix as a hub for collegiate athletics and the dedicated efforts of private universities like GCU to foster competitive excellence. The national broadcast highlights the successful cultivation of athletic programs that not only develop student-athletes but also contribute to the local sports landscape and community engagement through dedicated initiative.
Lopes on National Stage
The Grand Canyon University Lopes women’s basketball team is making its first-ever appearance on FS1, marking a milestone in the program’s history. This is the second nationally televised game for the Lopes this season, demonstrating an increasing recognition of their competitive drive. The game, scheduled for 2:30 p.m. MST from The Pit in Albuquerque, New Mexico, pits two Mountain West teams with identical 4-3 conference records against each other, with the winner positioned to secure an outright fourth-place standing and a crucial first-round bye in the Mountain West Championship.
Significance for Phoenix AZ Sports
The growing visibility of Grand Canyon University Athletics on national platforms contributes significantly to the Phoenix AZ sports scene. Such broadcasts attract attention to the talent and infrastructure within the state, potentially drawing further investment and interest in local collegiate programs. Success on a national stage can inspire community pride and encourage greater local support for student-athletes and university initiatives, demonstrating how private institutions can drive athletic growth. The commitment to high-level competition by institutions like GCU directly impacts the vibrancy and economic activity associated with college basketball Phoenix.
Teams’ Recent Performance and Key Players
The New Mexico Lobos enter Saturday’s contest with an overall record of 12-6 and a 4-3 mark in Mountain West play. Playing on their home court at The Pit, where they hold a strong 7-2 record this season, the Lobos will look to leverage their home advantage despite coming off two consecutive losses. Leading their offense is Destinee Hooks, averaging 13.8 points per game. The Lobos also showcase Laila Abdurraqib, a formidable three-point shooter connecting on 45% of her attempts, placing her 16th nationally. Their rebounding strength is notable, leading the Mountain West in rebounding offense with 41.2 rebounds per game.
The Grand Canyon Lopes, with a 5-12 overall record but a competitive 4-3 in the Mountain West, arrive in Albuquerque on a two-game winning streak. Their resilience is evident in their 2-1 record in Mountain West road games. The Lopes boast an impressive free-throw shooting percentage, leading the Mountain West at 76.2% overall and an even stronger 80.6% in conference play. Sophomore guard Chloe Mann is a standout, leading GCU in scoring with 13.4 points per game and excelling at the free-throw line with an 88.4% success rate. Julianna LaMendola contributes significantly with 12.6 points per game in conference matchups. The Lopes also exhibit strong rebounding defense, limiting opponents to an average of 32.9 rebounds per game.
Strategic Investment in Athletic Success
Grand Canyon University’s journey to national television visibility reflects a strategic investment in its athletic programs. Such achievements are not merely coincidental but are the product of sustained effort, responsible resource allocation, and a commitment to competitive excellence. University programs, often bolstered by private investment and community support, create environments where student-athletes can thrive. This approach fosters personal perseverance and cultivates a winning culture, embodying the spirit of initiative crucial for sustained success in competitive arenas.
A History of Competition
This Saturday’s game marks only the second encounter between the Lopes and the Lobos, and the first in regular-season play. Their previous meeting was during the first round of the WNIT on March 16, 2022, where New Mexico secured a victory at home. This developing rivalry highlights the dynamic nature of collegiate sports, where new challenges and opportunities for competition continually emerge. The Mountain West Conference itself is a testament to strong competition, with numerous teams capable of contending, reflecting a healthy competitive ecosystem where every game demands peak performance.
The Value of Competition and Community
The national broadcast of this game serves as a powerful testament to the value of spirited competition and the commitment of institutions to developing well-rounded individuals. Beyond the scores and standings, collegiate athletics cultivate discipline, teamwork, and leadership—qualities essential for success in all walks of life. The engagement of the Phoenix community with Grand Canyon University Athletics exemplifies how local support and private initiative can coalesce to create impactful programs. These programs not only entertain but also instill valuable lessons in perseverance and dedication, fostering a stronger, more resilient community.
Stay engaged with Grand Canyon University Athletics and other Phoenix AZ sports programs. Your support for student-athletes and collegiate competition directly contributes to the vibrant future of our local sports landscape. Follow the Lopes’ progress throughout the season and witness firsthand the power of commitment and competitive spirit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the Grand Canyon University Lopes vs. New Mexico Lobos women’s basketball game?
A: The game is scheduled for Saturday, January 17, 2026.
Q: What time does the game start?
A: Tip-off is at 2:30 p.m. MST (4:30 p.m. ET).
Q: Where will the game be played?
A: The game will be played at The Pit in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
Q: Which television channel will broadcast the game?
A: The game will be broadcast nationally on FS1.
Q: What is the significance of this game for the Lopes?
A: This is the first-ever game on FS1 for the Grand Canyon University women’s basketball program and an opportunity to solidify an outright fourth-place standing in the Mountain West Conference.
Q: What are the current conference records of both teams?
A: Both the Lopes and the Lobos are currently 4-3 in Mountain West play.
Game Day Feature Table: Lopes vs. Lobos
| Category | Grand Canyon University Lopes | New Mexico Lobos |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Record | 5-12 | 12-6 |
| Conference Record (MW) | 4-3 | 4-3 |
| National Broadcast | FS1 (First-ever program game on FS1) | FS1 |
| Game Location | Away (The Pit, Albuquerque, NM) | Home (The Pit, Albuquerque, NM) |
| Current Streak | Winners of two straight | Lost two straight |
| Leading Scorer | Chloe Mann (13.4 PPG) | Destinee Hooks (13.8 PPG) |
| FT Percentage (MW Rank) | 76.2% (1st in MW) | Not specified (but Lopes lead) |
| Rebounding Advantage | Leads MW in rebounding defense (32.9 Opponent RPG) | Leads MW in rebounding offense (41.2 RPG) |
| Previous Meeting | March 16, 2022 (WNIT First Round Loss) | March 16, 2022 (WNIT First Round Win) |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
