The Texas State Bobcats (7-5) are entering conference play in a peculiar situation. Wins against UTSA and Texas Southern showed the potential of this team, but losses against Bowling Green and Rice reinforced the idea that this season may be one of transition and not immediate success.
Texas State started their season with an 83-48 loss to Bowling Green. After beating Texas A&M Corpus Christi and losing to Tulane, they went on a five-game winning streak, including a signature win against UTSA at home.
Although the competition wasn’t as intense, players like senior Marc Drone and freshman DJ Hall were crucial in that stretch. Drone is the team’s leading scorer so far this season with 145 points, and Hall flashed his ability as a rebounding forward with double-double potential for years to come.
After that stretch, the team struggled against tougher competition, losing three straight games to Seattle, Lehigh, and Rice before barely beating Southern University 86-83 at home.
For the Bobcats, it is clear that this season will serve as preparation for their move to the Pac-12, where they will be joining several powerhouse programs such as Gonzaga, Utah State, and San Diego State. The Pac-12 will raise the level of competition for the Bobcats, and next year’s freshman class and transfers will be full of players with aspirations to compete against these programs.
With several seniors graduating and player transfers inevitable, the team that steps on the court against Arkansas State will be wildly different from the one that will kick off Pac-12 play in a year. However, if just a few of the younger players like Hall and freshman Robert Fields develop and prove that they can contribute, then this season could be seen as a success, even if the wins don’t start rolling in right away.
Texas State will commence their final Sun Belt season against Arkansas State, who also won seven non-conference games, at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 17 at the Strahan Arena in San Marcos, Texas. Fans can tune in to watch the game on ESPN+.
