Phoenix, Arizona, January 22, 2026
In a gripping Mountain West Conference showdown, the San Diego State Aztecs suffered a narrow defeat to the Grand Canyon Antelopes, losing 70-69. With just two seconds left, Makaih Williams hit two crucial free throws to secure victory for Grand Canyon. Despite a strong comeback by San Diego State, which saw Elzie Harrington leading the team with 16 points, they couldn’t clinch a win. This loss marks the end of their seven-game winning streak.
San Diego State Falls to Grand Canyon 70-69 in Last-Second Thriller
Phoenix, Arizona – In a heart-stopping Mountain West Conference matchup, the San Diego State Aztecs narrowly lost to the Grand Canyon Antelopes 70-69 on Wednesday night. The game concluded with two free throws from Grand Canyon’s Makaih Williams with just two seconds remaining, sealing the victory for the Antelopes.
Game Summary
The Aztecs, now 13-5 overall and 7-1 in conference play, initially trailed by double digits in the second half. However, they mounted a strong comeback, taking a 69-68 lead with 53 seconds left, thanks to a putback by freshman Tae Simmons. With the clock winding down, a foul was called on San Diego State’s Pharaoh Compton as Williams drove to the basket. Williams calmly sank both free throws, giving Grand Canyon a one-point advantage. Despite a last-second attempt by the Aztecs, the game ended with the Antelopes securing the win.
Player Performances
Elzie Harrington led the Aztecs with 16 points, while Reese Dixon-Waters added 12 points, and BJ Davis contributed 11 points. For Grand Canyon, Williams and Jaden Henley each scored 17 points, with Henley also grabbing eight rebounds. Brian Moore Jr. chipped in 12 points for the Antelopes.
Team Statistics
San Diego State shot 41% from the field and 84% from the free-throw line, making 16 of 19 attempts. Grand Canyon, on the other hand, made 38% of their field goals and 79% of their free throws, converting 22 of 28 attempts. The Aztecs outrebounded the Antelopes 36-38 and forced 11 steals, but committed 10 turnovers compared to Grand Canyon’s 16.
Upcoming Schedule
Looking ahead, San Diego State will face the UNLV Runnin’ Rebels on Saturday, January 24, at 1 p.m. PT in Las Vegas. The game will be broadcast on CBS and San Diego Sports 760. The Aztecs will aim to bounce back from this narrow defeat as they continue their conference campaign.
Background
This loss marks the first in Mountain West play for San Diego State, ending their seven-game winning streak. The Aztecs have historically struggled in Phoenix, with this being their third consecutive loss to Grand Canyon on the road. The game was played at the Global Credit Union Arena, known for its energetic atmosphere, especially with the Grand Canyon student section, The Havocs, in full force.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the final score of the game?
The final score was Grand Canyon 70, San Diego State 69.
Who led the Aztecs in scoring?
Elzie Harrington led the Aztecs with 16 points.
When is San Diego State’s next game?
San Diego State will play against UNLV on Saturday, January 24, at 1 p.m. PT in Las Vegas.
Where was the game played?
The game was held at the Global Credit Union Arena in Phoenix, Arizona.
How did the game end?
The game concluded with two free throws from Grand Canyon’s Makaih Williams with two seconds remaining, securing the win for the Antelopes.
Key Features of the Game
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Final Score | Grand Canyon 70, San Diego State 69 |
| Leading Scorer for Aztecs | Elzie Harrington with 16 points |
| Leading Scorer for Antelopes | Makaih Williams with 17 points |
| Free Throw Performance | Aztecs 84% (16-19), Antelopes 79% (22-28) |
| Rebounding | Aztecs 36, Antelopes 38 |
| Turnovers | Aztecs 10, Antelopes 16 |
| Next Game | Saturday, January 24, against UNLV at 1 p.m. PT in Las Vegas |
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