LAS CRUCES, N.M. - Despite their best defensive efforts, NM State couldn't overcome an offensive performance that was stagnant at times. The team combined to hit only 19 of their 61 field goal attempts, in what was their worst field goal percentage of the season (31.1). The home team kept it close by hitting 15 of 17 free throw attempts, but a 9-0 fourth quarter Anteater run was too much to overcome. UC Irvine continued their solid start to the season, improving to 6-3 overall. The Aggies dropped their second straight game and fell to 4-4 in the process.