SJSU shocks Nevada to win first MWC tourney game

Omari Moore led the way for the Spartans. Candice Ward-USA TODAY Sports

San Jose State shocks Nevada to win first MWC Tournament game in school history

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 3/9/23

San Jose State's miracle turnaround continues.

A year removed from an 11th straight losing season following an 8-23 finish, the Spartans are in the Mountain West Conference Tournament semifinals.

San Jose State shocked Nevada on Thursday, 81-77, in overtime, earning the program's first MWC victory in school history and its first 20-win season since 1980-81.

MWC Player of the Year Omari Moore led the way for the Spartans, despite a shaky first half. Nevada held Moore to only four first-half points, but then the junior turned it on, scoring 22 of his team-high 26 points in the second half and overtime.

Big time shot for Omari Moore @SanJoseStateMBB pic.twitter.com/ZaBdooaxDF
— CBS Sports College Basketball (@CBSSportsCBB) March 10, 2023

"During halftime, the coaches kept telling, 'Keep being aggressive, keep being aggressive, it's going to fall, it's going to fall,'" Moore said, via CBS Sports.

In only his second season at the helm, head coach Tim Miles has helped guide the program's rejuvenation. The reigning MWC Coach of the Year credited his team for buying in after grinding out the biggest win of the season on Thursday.

"They're tough-minded. Coach is tough on them some days, but they dig in," Miles said. "They have great aspirations, and they're willing to do all the hard work that goes with it."

The Spartans hope to keep their incredible run going on Friday in the MWC. Although, the task will be tall, matching up against the first-seed San Diego State Aztecs, who advance after squeaking by No. 8 Colorado State, 64-61.

Regardless of Friday's result, San Jose State has accomplished more than most expected.

"These guys are tougher together longer," Miles said. "They're beautiful to coach, and it's been a lot of fun."

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