Boise State Broncos head into their Jan. 16 showdown with Colorado State needing to snap a six‑game losing streak that has plagued the program since December. Coach Leon Rice has introduced a more aggressive defensive press and intensified rebounding drills, hoping the Broncos can translate adjustments into a win that restores confidence and steadies the season.
New Schedule Overview
The 2025‑26 men’s basketball calendar features 31 games, beginning with a non‑conference test in early November and moving quickly into Mountain West action. Highlight dates include:
- Home clash vs. Colorado State on Jan. 16, 2026 (ESPN live stream)
- Road test at Nevada in late February
- Back‑to‑back games against arch‑rival Utah State
- Late‑season showdown with San Diego State
These matchups will shape the Broncos’ seeding in the conference tournament and determine whether the team can reverse its early‑season slide.
Current Losing Streak
The Broncos have dropped six straight games, the longest skid since the 2018‑19 season. Notable defeats include a 93‑68 loss to Utah State on Jan. 3 and a 78‑74 overtime defeat at UNLV two days later. Over the last five contests, Boise State has shot just 38% from the field and posted a +9 turnover margin.
Key Factors Behind the Decline
- Shooting inefficiency: Sub‑par field‑goal percentage has limited scoring opportunities.
- Turnover trouble: A positive turnover margin indicates the team is giving the ball away more than it’s taking it away.
- Rebounding deficit: The Broncos were out‑rebounded 48‑32 in the Utah State loss, leading to second‑chance points for opponents.
Coaching Adjustments
Coach Rice’s mantra “something has to be done differently” is now materializing on the practice floor. The staff has shifted from a traditional zone defense to a hybrid man‑to‑man press designed to force turnovers and create fast‑break opportunities.
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Defensive Scheme Changes
Assistant coach Mike Miller explained the new approach: “We’re aiming for quicker, more decisive rotations that generate offense from the defensive end.” Early observations show an increase in forced turnovers, though consistency remains a work in progress.
Rebounding Emphasis
Practices now focus on boxing out, positioning, and video breakdowns of missed opportunities under the basket. The goal is to narrow the rebounding gap that has contributed to opponents’ second‑chance points.
Colorado State Test
The Jan. 16 game against Colorado State serves as a litmus test for the Broncos’ revamped identity. Colorado State enters the contest as a five‑point favorite, having won four straight meetings, including a 75‑62 Mountain West tournament victory in March 2025.
If Rice’s defensive and rebounding adjustments hold, Boise State could keep the game closer than the spread suggests and potentially break the losing streak.
Looking Ahead
The remainder of the season hinges on the Broncos’ ability to execute the new strategies. Senior point guard Jamal Thompson (14.2 ppg, 5.3 apg) provides leadership, while forward Malik Hernandez offers promising inside presence.
Success against Colorado State would not only halt the skid but also set a positive tone for the critical home stand against San Diego State in late February. The Broncos have the schedule; now they need the performance to turn the tide.
