The Aztec Beat Goes On: San Diego State Ignites New Season with Convincing Victory

Ah, Viejas Arena. The air, thick with anticipation, practically crackled on Monday night. After a season that took them to heights few dared to dream—a national championship game appearance, remember?—the San Diego State Aztecs were finally, truly, back. It was the first tip-off of a brand new campaign, and honestly, the faithful, all 11,262 of them, were absolutely buzzing. You could feel it, couldn’t you?

And what a way to kick things off. The Aztecs, showing little rust from their deep tournament run, confidently dispatched Idaho State with a 73-57 victory. Sure, it wasn't a wire-to-wire clinic, but it was certainly a convincing display, a sort of opening statement that echoed last year's grit and determination. They just looked… ready.

Leading the charge, and goodness, he was everywhere, was Jaedon LeDee. He wasn’t just good; he was, well, dominant. Pouring in a career-high 27 points and snatching 10 rebounds for a sparkling double-double, LeDee truly set the tone. His performance felt less like a season opener and more like a mid-season masterclass, strong and assertive, hinting at big things to come. He really owned the paint, you could say.

But this wasn't a one-man show, not by a long shot. Lamont Butler, a crucial piece of last year's puzzle, added 14 points, while Reese Waters contributed a respectable 15. Then there was Darrion Trammell, orchestrating the offense with a tidy 10 points and six assists. It was a balanced attack, a team effort, though LeDee’s brilliance undeniably shone brightest. They moved the ball, found their spots; it was cohesive, for the most part.

Now, Idaho State, under the guidance of new head coach Ryan O'Dowd, certainly didn't roll over. Brayden Parker, in particular, stood out for the Bengals, putting up 15 points and pulling down six rebounds. They actually managed to cut San Diego State's comfortable 15-point halftime lead (39-24, mind you) down to just 11 early in the second half. A valiant effort, to be sure, trying to claw their way back into it.

Yet, the Aztecs, they just had too much in the tank, too much collective experience and talent. They maintained their composure, shot a solid 50% from the field, and ultimately, never truly let the Bengals get within striking distance again. It was a controlled victory, one that suggested this team, despite some new faces and fresh expectations, might just be as formidable as ever.

So, as the final buzzer sounded and the crowd, satisfied and hopeful, began to disperse, one thing felt clear: the Aztec beat goes on. It was a strong start, a foundational win. And for anyone who had been counting down the days until basketball season returned, well, this was a pretty good way to welcome it back, wouldn't you agree?