CSUN has lost three games straight. Only one of those was a close match and, ironically, it was that very game the one that had Head Coach Bobby Braswell the maddest.

The other two? Blowout defeats. Braswell’s reaction? Let’s just say he didn’t disapprove.

‘For us there were certain things that I needed to see from our team, and this didn’t have anything to do with the scoreboard,’ he said following an 85-74 loss to New Mexico Monday.

It was our overall attitude, our effort, our energy and all those good things. I think we improved a bunch in those areas.’

‘We’re building something. We are not the finished product. I some saw good things (Monday).’

The Matadors (1-3) had 21 turnovers against the Lobos and sent them to the free throw line 32 times, another line Braswell’s focused on bettering. They get a shot at that Saturday at Rider (2-1).

Last season, the Broncs visited The Matadome and survived a last-second jumper by Deon Tresvant to come away with a thrilling 73-72 win. Rider, then, counted with now-Sacramento King forward Jason Thompson.

Thompson’s little brother, Ryan, is still there.

Ryan Thompson leads the Broncs in scoring with 18 ppg. He’s also averaging 9.3 rebounds per game.

Tip-off is set for 12 p.m.