MIAMI — FIU's men's basketball program fell late to New Mexico State 59-52 in Conference USA (CUSA) action on Thursday evening. 

The Panthers (7-11, 1-4 CUSA) and Aggies (11-6, 4-0 CUSA) battled back-and-forth in a defensive matchup at the Ocean Bank Convocation Center. FIU trailed by just two at the half and took a 45-43 lead late with 3:03 to go following a made layup from Asim Jones. 

New Mexico State went on a 13-4 run from that point to go up 56-47 with 45 seconds left, helping secure the seven-point victory. Vianney Salatchoum recorded his first double-double of the season with 13 points and 11 rebounds, adding two blocks in 32 minutes. Jayden Brewer delivered a few 'highlight reel' plays on his way to 13 points, shooting 6-for-12 from the field. 

Jones was the third Panther in double-figures with 11 points in 30 minutes. FIU had 32 points in the paint and out-rebounded the Aggies 39-34. 

As a team, the Panthers shot 35.2 percent from the field while New Mexico State shot 40.8 percent. The Aggies knocked down six crucial threes while FIU went 2-for-13 from deep. 

Both teams struggled to score in the opening half, but New Mexico State edged in front 21-9 with 7:53 left. FIU responded with a 16-3 run, capped by a Brewer dunk, to bring the deficit to one, down 25-24 with 3:04 left. The Panthers faced a 28-26 deficit at halftime.

FIU was down seven with 12:46 left, but made its push to tie the game at 37-all with 7:29 to go, setting the stage for the closing moments.

UP NEXT

FIU takes on UTEP on Saturday, Jan. 18 at 2 p.m. inside the Ocean Bank Convocation Center. 

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