LAS VEGAS – The Saint Mary's men's basketball team opened the MGM Resorts Main Event at the T-Mobile center in Las Vegas with an 80-63 loss to Utah State on Monday night.
 
The Gaels fall to 3-1 on the season, while Utah State improved to 5-0.
 
HOW IT HAPPENED:
Saint Mary's went back-and-forth with Utah State early in the game, with the Gaels taking a 16-14 lead eight minutes into the game. The Aggies took control of the half from there, extending their lead to 12 at the break.
 
In the second half, the Gaels battled back with an 11-0 run over a four-minute period to cut into the lead. But it wasn't enough as Utah State answered every run to pull out the win.
 
NUMBERS TO KNOW:

• 11: Career-high in points for freshman Dan Fotu tonight.
• 7: Team steals tonight for the Gaels.
• 11: The Gaels went on an 11-0 run over a four-minute period in the second half.
• 14: Both Jordan Ford and Malik Fitts finished with 14 points to lead Saint Mary's in scoring. 

UP NEXT:
Saint Mary's continues its play in Las Vegas with the second game of the MGM Resorts Main Event at the T-Mobile Arena on Wednesday. The Gaels will play in the 5:30 p.m. game against Mississippi State.
 
#GaelsRise – It's time to pack McKeon Pavilion and watch the Saint Mary's basketball team rise to new heights in 2018-19…call the SMC Ticket Office today at 925-631-4689 or click the ticket link above to get your seats now…Saint Mary's Basketball…#GaelsRise