Michigan Dominates San Diego State in 94-54 Blowout

LAS VEGAS, Nevada — The seventh-ranked Michigan Wolverines overpowered San Diego State 94-54 during the opening night of the 2025 Players Era Festival on November 24, 2025. The defeat marked the Aztecs’ most lopsided loss in over 25 years, echoing a similar undoing against Utah in 1999.

From the outset, Michigan showcased its talent, responding to a brief 5-0 lead by SDSU with an explosive 17-2 run. The Wolverines relentlessly dominated on both ends of the floor, demonstrating superior height and skill throughout the game.

“We got punched in the mouth,” said SDSU junior Miles Byrd. “We stressed rebounding all week, and they out-rebounded us by 15.” Byrd, along with teammates, struggled as the Aztecs shot just 27.4% from the field.

Despite a promising start, San Diego State quickly fell behind as Michigan’s 7-foot-3 transfer Aday Mara and 6-foot-9 players consistently found success in the paint, outscoring the Aztecs 38-12 there. The game reflected a broader theme of unevenness for the Aztecs, who have lost four of their last six games.

SDSU head coach Brian Dutcher, reflecting on the defeat, stated, “When you’re bad, you’re bad from the top down, and I’m the top.” His team, already under scrutiny after a recent double-overtime loss to Troy, is now faced with a pivotal matchup against Oregon on November 25.

The loss stung particularly due to the tournament’s format, where point differential impacts future matchups. Byrd expressed his determination to bounce back, saying, “Once we get back to the hotel, we’ve got to drop this.”

Freshman Elzie Harrington emerged as a shining spot for the Aztecs, scoring 15 points despite the team’s challenges. In contrast, all five Michigan starters contributed significantly to the scoreboard, with Yaxel Lendeborg leading with 15 points.

Coach Dusty May emphasized his team’s performance and adaptability, responding to San Diego State’s initial challenge with strategic precision. “We had a great night,” he said. “They’re still finding themselves.”

As they prepare to face Oregon, the Aztecs are looking to regain their rhythm against a team they met last year in the festival.