This is the second year in a row that Air Force will advance out of the play-in game, and only their second Mountain West tournament win in school history. Coming into this game the Falcons were riding a nine game losing streak and it happens that their last win came against Wyoming.
Senior Grant Parker led the Falcons with 15 points on ten shots as Air Force used their traditional slow down style of play to limit the possessions. The Falcons played great team ball with 15 assists to just 9 turnovers, and then defensively they held Wyoming to 2 of 18 shooting from behind the arc. Air Force used a 9-0 run in the first half to get some breathing room and then a 12-0 run at the end of the game which sealed their victory. This game was never really in question for Air Force as they lead nearly the entire game.
Desmar Jackson had the game high with 18 points and was the loan bright spot for the Pokes. In addition to their poor three point shooting Wyoming was only 9 of 18 from the line. The Cowboys were never able to close the gap after making it a seven point game with 5:28 remaining. Wyoming was all ready missing players to injury but then also had to play without captain JayDee Luster who was out due to a groin injury as Wyoming went with a seven man rotation.
Air Force takes on top seed New Mexico tomorrow at 3pm eastern and will be televised by The Mountain West Sports Network and will be shown in glorious high definition which is a big deal since the channel has been lacking high-def coverage during the regular season.