Lobos Add JUCO All-American Forward Allen-Tovar

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — The University of New Mexico men’s basketball team has added JUCO All-American forward Jay Allen-Tovar to the roster for 2021-22. Allen-Tovar, also an Academic All-American, comes to UNM as a transfer from Salt Lake Community College.

Allen-Tovar comes to the Lobos after two seasons with the Bruins where he helped lead his team to the NJCAA Nationals in 2020-21.

The sophomore finished fourth on the team in scoring with 10.6 points per game last season while also averaging 6.5 rebounds and 1.0 assists. He started 17 games, averaging 22.1 minutes per game, while shooting 60.7 percent from the field and 69.2 percent the free throw line.

Allen-Tovar also amassed 30 blocks (1.25 per game) and 16 steals (0.67).

A San Jose, Calif. native, Allen-Tovar graduated from Valley Christian High School in 2019 where he helped his team to the CCS Championship in 2018. His senior season, he averaged 25 points and eight rebounds per game.

Coach Pitino on Allen-Tovar: “We are excited about the addition of Jay to our basketball program. He has the size, skill and athleticism that we need. Jay has the ability to play on the perimeter, as well as the inside. I expect him to make an immediate impact on and off the court. Lobo fans will love his energy and enthusiasm.”

Allen-Tovar on Why He Chose UNM: “I feel valued, I feel like everybody is on the same page and wants to win. Plus, you can’t go wrong with playing in The Pit!”