In more ways than one, the Marquette Golden Eagles suffered a devastating blow with their first round loss to New Mexico, 75-66, in the 7 vs 10 seed matchup in the South Region. 4.5-point favorites, the Eagles struggled out of the gate and played from behind almost the entire first half. All the more painful, they seemed to turn a corner later in the game, swinging momentum their way and gaining a 1-point lead as late as the 6:44 mark. But a nearly four-minute scoring drought enabled a 10-0 Lobos run that proved to much to overcome.
For a team that started the season strong, first place in the Big East, and remained hopeful for a deep run after reaching the Sweet 16 last year, the first round upset was a major letdown–probably even more so for the seniors, like Kam Jones, David Joplin and Stevie Mitchell, who will not have another shot in March. In their voices and the voice of coach Shaka Smart, the disappointment was palpable as they answered questions in the postgame press conference.
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In his fourth and final year at Marquette, Jones put up career numbers, averaging 19.3 points (3rd in the Big East) and 5.9 assists (2nd) after taking over point guard with the departure of Tyler Kolek. He made the All-America second team and elevated his NBA draft stock into the late first round, impressive territory for a 23-year-old among coveted freshmen and sophomores.
Jones lit on a tear during season’s stretch run, trying to keep his team afloat as the offense stagnated. He entered Friday night averaging 26 points and 23.5 shots across his last four games.
Against New Mexico he did not replicate his usual volume of offense, going 6-14 for 15 points, 5 rebounds and 5 assists. He didn’t need to. Joplin erupted for 28 on 9-15 and 6-10 on threes. What the game came down to, in Smart’s words, was the Lobos’ superior poise, paint scoring, and decision-making with the ball.
“No excuses,” Joplin said when asked about the loss. “They had guys that made plays.”
Everyone was subdued and at least a little choked up, but Jones grew especially emotional when questions came his way–understandably so, as team leader at a program that has fostered such growth in his game. For the road to end Friday night, as favorites against a very good but non-power 5 school, was beyond deflating.
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Before Jones arrived, Marquette had made the NCAA tournament twice in seven years, losing in round one both times. Since then, they haven’t missed.
A reporter asked Jones to share his thoughts on the Eagles’ overall success in time there juxtaposed to their late-season stumbles in 2025.
“This has been a lot of fun, wearing this uniform,” Jones said. “Being with these guys every day. Spending time with these guys. No other group I would rather play with. I love these guys to death. I hate that it ended this way.”
To his credit, Jones fought his way through an answer, a true pro. He spoke through tears and took several breaks to collect himself. No doubt teammates, coaches and fans are just as sad to see him go. Jones, Joplin and Mitchell led Marquette in scoring. Whether through recruiting, the transfer portal or internal development, the Golden Eagles will need several guys to step up alongside junior Chase Ross next season.
As for Jones, Marquette faithful will have the opportunity to continue rooting for him in the NBA, along with recent draftees Kolek (Knicks) and Oso Ighadoro (Suns). When the draft tips off June 25, Jones should have a good shot at having his name called on opening night.
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