Key Matchup: Bigs Graham Ike, Norchad Omier Take Center Stage in Season Opener

Two of the Most Promising Big Men in the Country Will Face Off in a Battle of the Bigs on Tuesday

When the New Mexico Lobos host the Northern Arizona Lumberjacks on Tuesday night, two of the most promising big men in the country will take center stage in a battle of the bigs: Graham Ike and Norchad Omier. Both players are coming off strong seasons and are expected to be key contributors for their respective teams this year.

Ike, a 6-foot-9 sophomore, averaged 15.3 points and 8.7 rebounds per game last season. He was also a force on the defensive end, averaging 2.3 blocks per game. Omier, a 6-foot-7 senior, averaged 12.9 points and 11.2 rebounds per game last season at Arkansas State. He was also a strong defender, averaging 1.5 blocks per game.

The matchup between Ike and Omier will be a key factor in determining the outcome of Tuesday's game. Both players are capable of putting up big numbers, and they will both be looking to make an impact on the game.

The Lobos will need Ike to be a force on both ends of the floor. He will need to score points, rebound the basketball, and play defense. Omier will need to do the same for the Lumberjacks. He will need to score points, rebound the basketball, and block shots.

The matchup between Ike and Omier is sure to be a close one. Both players are talented and both players are motivated to win. It should be a great matchup to watch.

Additional Information

• Ike was named to the All-Mountain West Conference First Team last season.
• Omier was named to the All-Sun Belt Conference Second Team last season.
• The Lobos are ranked No. 25 in the preseason AP Poll.
• The Lumberjacks are unranked in the preseason AP Poll.
• The game will be played at The Pit in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
• The game will be televised on ESPN2.