LAS CRUCES, N.M. — Troy Gillenwater anchored New Mexico State with 17 points, five rebounds, two blocks and one steal as the Aggies beat UC Riverside 79-52 in today's season opener.

With Gillenwater's efforts, NMSU (1-0) pressured Riverside (0-1) and transitioned for 30 points scored on turnovers. The Aggies forced 20 turnovers and finished with 22 defensive rebounds, nine steals and three blocks.

The Aggies started off slow. Jonathan Gibson missed his first four 3-point attempts but finally found the basket midway through the first half, tying the game at 16.

Gillenwater scored on the next possession, giving the Aggies an 18-16 lead.

NMSU led 45-30 at the break and never surrendered the lead in the second half.

Jesse LoBue and Javon Borum led Riverside with 11 points each.