8 to WatchJustin Hawkins

The Aggies’ leading scorer is one of six transfers who have melded to help orchestrate a superb two-year turnaround under coach Reggie Theus. Hawkins, a 6-foot-7 junior, came from Utah. After sitting out last year, he leads New Mexico State in scoring with a 15.7 average and rebounding at 6.8 per game. “I left (Utah) because I didn’t really think it was going to be the best fit for me,” he said. “.” Hawkins said he tries to find the easiest ways to score. “I get the ball as close as I can to the basket,” he said. “The closer you are to the basket, the more shots you’re going to make.” But he can also score from outside and in transition. Three seasons ago, New Mexico State finished the season 6-24. It won 16 games in Theus’ first year and is 25-8 heading into today’s game against Texas. “I’m just anxious to get out there on the court and play,” Hawkins said. By Mike Vlahovich, Staff writer