UTEP Men’s Basketball Routs Sul Ross To Tip Off Season
EL PASO, Texas – The UTEP Miners men’s basketball team opened their 2022-23 season with a dominant 103-59 victory over Sul Ross State University on Monday night at the Don Haskins Center.
A Fast Start
The Miners wasted no time in asserting their dominance, jumping out to a 15-0 lead in the first five minutes of the game. Sul Ross struggled to keep up with UTEP’s pace and physicality, allowing the Miners to build a commanding 53-25 halftime lead.
Offensive Explosion
The Miners’ offense was firing on all cylinders, shooting a blistering 57.1% from the field and 43.8% from three-point range. Five players scored in double figures, led by junior guard Jamal Bieniemy’s 21 points. Senior forward Efe Odigie also contributed a solid 17 points and 10 rebounds.
Defensive Lockdown
On the defensive end, UTEP held Sul Ross to just 36.2% shooting, forcing 21 turnovers in the process. The Miners’ size and athleticism proved too much for the Division III Lobos to handle.
Key Takeaways
This victory provides several key takeaways for the Miners:
- Offensive Potential: UTEP’s ability to score efficiently and consistently bodes well for the team’s future prospects.
- Defensive Intensity: The Miners’ aggressive defense sets a high standard for the rest of the season.
- Team Chemistry: The team’s chemistry seems to be strong, with multiple players contributing significantly.
Coach’s Perspective
“I’m very pleased with our performance tonight,” said Head Coach Joe Golding. “We played with a lot of energy and intensity, and it showed on both ends of the court. We have a lot of work to do, but this is a great start to the season.”
Sul Ross Perspective
Head Coach C.J. Baird remained upbeat despite the loss, saying, “UTEP is a very good team, and we learned a lot tonight. We will use this experience to improve and come back stronger for the rest of our season.”
Looking Ahead
The Miners will face their first road test of the season on Friday when they travel to Las Cruces, New Mexico, to take on New Mexico State University. The Aggies are a perennial NCAA Tournament contender, and the matchup will be a good test for UTEP’s early-season momentum.
Conclusion
UTEP’s emphatic victory over Sul Ross State University serves as a promising start to their 2022-23 season. The Miners showcased their offensive firepower, defensive prowess, and team chemistry. While it is still early, this victory provides a glimpse of the potential this team possesses. As they navigate a challenging schedule, the Miners will aim to maintain their momentum and prove that they are a force to be reckoned with in Conference USA.
