Battle of I-25: Confidence Travels as Lynx Head to Pueblo

The men’s basketball team is hitting the road for the first time this season, heading south to face CSU Pueblo ThunderWolves in a Battle of I-25 matchup that comes with both excitement and opportunity. Sitting at 6–0, the Lynx travel to Pueblo undefeated but more importantly, confident in who they are and how they play.

After setting the tone at home, this trip represents a new kind of challenge. A new gym. A different environment. A chance to see how preparation translates away from familiar surroundings. Rather than easing into the moment, this team has leaned into it, embracing the opportunity to test itself on the road.

That confidence has been building steadily since the start of the season. Practices have been energetic and focused, with a group that’s clearly bought into the work being done every day. According to second-year assistant coach Sean Burns, the motivation within the team is unmistakable a reflection of both last semester’s undefeated finish and the chemistry developing throughout the roster.

Head coach Tino Mokombe, now in his fourth season leading the program, sees that energy consistently, whether it’s in practice, during travel, or leading up to game day.

“It’s fun, energetic, excited, eager,” Mokombe said. “Every practice has great energy, and that carries over when we travel. We’ve built strong momentum, and I’m excited to see how this group continues to grow, especially in environments where things aren’t always in our favor.”

As the Lynx prepare for their first road matchup, the focus has shifted toward sharpening the details. While effort and intensity have been constant, Mokombe emphasized the importance of execution — winning the rebounding battle, valuing possessions, and staying disciplined defensively. Those small moments, he noted, often make the difference when playing away from 

That confidence extends beyond the coaching staff. With each week, the group has grown more connected, and that trust has translated into a rhythm on the floor that feels steady and controlled.Senior point guard Evan Jackson (No. 2) has seen that growth firsthand.

“Every time we come in, it’s straight to work. It feels like we’re ready to take on whoever we play.”

For Jackson and several of his teammates, this weekend marks their first opportunity to compete in a different environment this season, something the team has been looking forward to.

“We’re excited to get out of our element a little bit,” Jackson said. “It’ll be fun to show another team that they can’t beat us, even at their place.”

As the wins have added up, so has belief. Jackson says it’s something you can feel in every possession in the confidence to take shots, make plays, and trust the next pass.

“This is the most confidence I’ve seen in my four years here,” he said. “Every shot feels good. Every pass feels right. It’s just fun to play with that kind of confidence.”

With strong chemistry, disciplined preparation, and an unbeaten record on the line, the Lynx head to Pueblo ready for the challenge ahead confident in who they are, how they play, and the work they’ve put in to get there.

Tip-off is set in Pueblo, be sure to check back for a full recap and game stats following the matchup.