LOGAN, Utah (ABC4 Sports) - The Utah State Aggies showcased their resilience and skill during a thrilling matchup against the San Jose State Spartans on Saturday, securing a decisive 96-78 victory at The Spectrum. This win marks a significant milestone for the Aggies as they improve their season record to an impressive 12-1, solidifying their position as a formidable contender in the Mountain West Conference. The game unfolded in front of a lively home crowd, with fans eagerly anticipating a display of high-octane basketball. The first half saw a competitive back-and-forth battle, with both teams exchanging leads multiple times. The Spartans, known for their tenacity, came out strong, leveraging their athleticism and sharp shooting to keep the game within reach. By halftime, the Aggies held a narrow lead of 44-41, but the outcome was still very much in question. MJ Collins emerged as the standout player for the Aggies, leading the team with 23 points, showcasing his ability to drive to the basket and sink crucial three-pointers. Collins’ performance was complemented by a strong showing from freshman Elijah Perryman, who contributed significantly off the bench. Perryman's energy and tenacity were palpable, and he finished the game with 18 points, demonstrating the depth and potential of this young Aggies roster. Aggies head coach Ryan Odom lauded his team’s performance in the second half, where they truly turned the tide of the game. "We made some necessary adjustments at halftime. The guys came out with a different mindset and really executed our game plan well," Odom stated in the post-game press conference. Indeed, the Aggies' defense tightened significantly after the break, limiting the Spartans' scoring opportunities and forcing turnovers that translated into fast-break points. The second half saw Utah State increase their defensive intensity, disrupting San Jose State’s rhythm and forcing them into difficult shots. The Aggies outscored the Spartans 52-37 in the second half, a testament to their stamina and strategic execution. Key contributions came from multiple players, with senior forward Justin Bean adding 15 points and grabbing 10 rebounds, showcasing his prowess on both ends of the court. San Jose State’s head coach, Tim Miles, acknowledged the challenge posed by the Aggies in the second half. “They’re a talented team, and when they get rolling, it’s tough to stop them. We didn’t execute our game plan as well as we needed to in the second half, and they took advantage of that,” he remarked. The Spartans, who fell to 8-5 with the loss, will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their next conference matchup. As the clock wound down in the final minutes of the game, the home crowd erupted in cheers, celebrating not only the victory but also the team’s promising trajectory as the season progresses. The Aggies’ performance on Saturday highlighted their potential to be serious contenders in the Mountain West, especially with a balanced scoring attack and a deep bench that can wear down opponents. Looking ahead, the Aggies will face off against other Mountain West rivals in the coming weeks, and maintaining this momentum will be crucial. The team’s ability to adapt in high-pressure situations will be tested as they navigate a challenging conference schedule. With their eyes set on a successful run in both the regular season and potential postseason play, the Aggies are poised to make a significant impact. In summary, Utah State basketball's dominating second-half performance against San Jose State not only secured a vital win but also underscored the team's growth and potential as they aim for greater heights in the 2023 season. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Aggies continue to build on their success and aim for a deep run in the Mountain West Conference and beyond.