San Diego State fell to Utah State 79-71 after playing most of the game without big man Gwath, who suffered a knee injury.

SAN DIEGO — The San Diego State Aztecs men's basketball team is gearing up for two pivotal games against Utah State and New Mexico which could significantly impact their NCAA Tournament prospects. After overcoming recent struggles, the Aztecs aim to build on their recent momentum and improve their resume for postseason consideration.

Utah State’s 79-71 victory in front of a sellout crowd of 10,270 at the Spectrum secured the regular-season sweep of the conference’s perennial powerhouse program.

Dexter Akanno had 26 points in Utah State’s 79-71 win against San Diego State on Saturday night. Akanno added five rebounds for the Aggies (24-4, 14-3 Mountain West Conference). Ian Martinez and Deyton Albury added 18 points apiece.

Magoon Gwath, SDSU’s 7-foot starting forward whom Utah State coach Jerrod Calhoun said “is playing as good as anybody in the country,” was sitting there with his right knee in a brace and crutches at his feet.