UNM Lobos Women's Basketball: NM's Northern Powerhouse

While Las Cruces has the New Mexico State Aggies, many basketball fans across Southern New Mexico also follow the University of New Mexico Lobos women’s basketball team, based in Albuquerque. Competing in the Mountain West Conference, the Lobos have developed into one of the most competitive programs in the region.

What Has the Team Achieved Under Mike Bradbury?

Since 2016, Coach Mike Bradbury has guided the UNM women’s basketball program into an era of sustained success. He holds a 180–103 record in nine full seasons and has led the Lobos to five 20-win campaigns, highlighted by a 26-win season in 2021–22 that tied the program record.

The Lobos remain one of only three Mountain West teams (along with the University of Nevada, Las Vegas and Colorado State University) to post three 20-win seasons in the last four years.

The UNM teams consistently score and rebound among the conference leaders, making them a statewide powerhouse representing New Mexico with distinction nationally.

By the Numbers:

180 overall wins at UNM
26 wins in 2021–22 (program record)
5 total 20-win seasons
7 of the last 8 years ranked top 2 in Mountain West scoring offense

Coaching and Support Staff

Mike Bradbury is supported by:

Keith Freeman — Associate Head Coach
Nike McClure — Assistant Coach
Mackenzie Head (Novak) — Assistant Coach
Isaiah Fernandez — Director of Player Development

Which Players Lead the 2025–26 Lobos Roster?

The Lobos’ 2025–26 roster brings together returning experience and fresh talent.

Veteran players like Clarissa Craig, a redshirt senior forward, and Emma Najjuma, a 6′4″ redshirt sophomore, provide leadership and defensive strength near the basket.
In the backcourt, guards such as Destinee Hooks and Drew Jordon add quickness and versatility.
New faces include Kaia Foster, a 6′2″ guard, and Leonor Peixinho, a 6′1″ forward, who expand the team’s options on both ends of the court.

The roster reflects UNM’s ability to recruit across the United States and internationally, making the team one of the most diverse in the Mountain West. Fans in Southern New Mexico will have the chance to see this team in action when the Lobos face the New Mexico State Aggies in Las Cruces on November 16.

How Do the Lobos Impact New Mexico Beyond Albuquerque?

Although they’re based in Albuquerque, the Lobos’ success resonates throughout the state. Their community programs, youth clinics, and outreach activities connect them to fans from Santa Fe to Las Cruces. The team’s visibility strengthens women’s basketball statewide and raises the profile of New Mexico athletes on the national stage.

Why Is The Pit Considered a Distinctive Venue?

The Pit, formally known as University Arena, is one of college basketball’s largest and most energetic home courts. With seating for more than 15,000, it is regularly described as one of the toughest arenas for visiting teams in the Mountain West Conference.

For fans traveling from Southern New Mexico, the trip north is rewarded with one of the most dynamic game-day experiences in college sports.

What’s Ahead for the 2025–26 Season?

The Lobos are preparing for another competitive campaign with a schedule that includes several challenging conference matchups.

Their goals include:

Competing for the Mountain West Conference championship
Advancing deep into the Mountain West tournament
Earning a place in the NCAA Tournament, with hopes of reaching the later rounds

FAQs

Who is the head coach of UNM women’s basketball?

Mike Bradbury, hired in 2016, leads the program.

Where does the team play home games?

The Pit in Albuquerque is a 15,000-seat arena known for its loud and engaged fans.

Does the team recruit internationally?

Yes. The Lobos regularly include players from Europe, Africa, and beyond.

When can Las Cruces fans see the Lobos nearby?

On November 16, they face rival New Mexico State University at NMSU.

See the Lobos in Action

Southern New Mexico fans won’t want to miss the 2025–26 UNM women’s basketball season. With veteran leaders, exciting newcomers, and head coach Mike Bradbury at the helm, the Lobos bring fast-paced, high-level NCAA competition to The Pit in Albuquerque — and a special showdown in Las Cruces against NMSU on November 16.

Catch the Lobos live, support women’s basketball, and experience the excitement whether you travel north to The Pit or cheer them on locally in Las Cruces.