Aztecs basketball season tips off

• It's also an opportunity to prove themselves against one of the best programs in the country after our squad was snubbed in the AP preseason poll.

What they're saying: "Any time you get to play a team that is perceived to be stronger than you are in a particular season, it's good for you to measure yourself and let the nation see what we're about to start our season," coach Brian Dutcher said at a press conference Monday.

State of play: Tipoff is set for 7pm on Friday, and the game is open to fans thanks to new NCAA rules.

The intrigue: The team's 7-foot standout sophomore, Magoon Gwath, turned down millions in potential NIL dollars from other schools and withdrew from the NBA draft to return to SDSU this year.

• He was the Mountain West's 2025 freshman of the year and defensive player of the year, shooting 38% from three.

Yes, but: Gwath won't play Friday because he's rehabbing after knee surgery.

Who else we're watching: Junior guard Miles Byrd will be back on the court for the Aztecs this season after withdrawing from the NBA draft.

• Senior guard Reese Dixon-Waters and junior guard BJ Davis are also returning starters.
• SDSU picked up key transfers with sharpshooter Latrell Davis, forward Jeremiah Oden and point guard Sean Newman Jr. — who could fill the spot leading scorer Nick Boyd left when he transferred to Wisconsin.

What's next: The Aztecs play USD in a crosstown rivalry exhibition game on Oct. 29.

• The regular season starts against Long Beach State at home on Nov. 4.