Lobos ready to defend MW Bball Crown

Albuquerque (KRQE) - They have 4 of the last 5 Mountain West basketball titles. Steve Alford's University of New Mexico Lobos are officially on their drive for 5. Gone from this year's team is double double rebounding machine Drew Gordon and the hardworking A.J. Hardeman. Alford is hoping Alex Kirk, who sat out after back surgery last season, and Cameron Bairstow can effectively man the front court for the 2012-2013 season. The Lobos could opt to go smaller with back court that is very deep. Guards Tony Snell,Kendall Williams, Demetrius Walker, Jamaal Fenton and Hugh Greenwood are back with another year of experience. The Lobos regular season will start at 11:59pm on November 12th. The Lobos are hosting Davidson on ESPN. It is part of the network's 24 hours of basketball.