Western KY defeats UTEP 56-68
Western Kentucky Edges UTEP in Conference Thriller, 68-56
In a tightly contested conference matchup, Western Kentucky University (WKU) came from behind to defeat the Miners of University of Texas at El Paso (UTEP), 68-56, on Monday night at the Don Haskins Center.
Trailing by four points at halftime, WKU's offense ignited in the second half, outscoring UTEP 37-21 to take a commanding lead. The difference in scoring margins was a stark contrast to the first half, where both teams struggled to find their rhythm. In the first half, UTEP took advantage of its home court, leading by as many as five points.
In the second half, WKU's Teagan Moore (19 points, 2-2 3PT, 87.5% FG) and Armelo Boone (9 points, 14 reb, 2 ast, 2 stl) spearheaded a balanced attack that outlasted UTEP's efforts. Meanwhile, Jamal West Jr. led the Miners with 15 points (45.5% FG), while Kaseem Watson chipped in with eight rebounds and seven points.
The game was marked by a few key turning points, including WKU's surge in scoring in the second half. The Hilltoppers' bench played a significant role in their comeback, providing crucial energy off the bench. In contrast, UTEP's bench failed to have an impact, with several players struggling to find their footing.
In terms of advanced statistics, both teams showed flashes of brilliance. WKU's true shooting percentage was 47.4%, while UTEP's came in at 44.7%. The Hilltoppers also outrebounded the Miners by a margin of 27-27 on the defensive end.
The win improves Western Kentucky's chances in the conference standings, and sets up an intriguing matchup against their next opponent. For UTEP, this tough loss marks a setback in their own quest for success in the league.
Game Stats:
UTEP (HOME):
* Field Goals: 17/53 (32.0%)
* 2-Point FG: 12/31 (38.7%)
* 3-Point FG: 5/22 (23.0%)
* Free Throws: 17/22 (77.0%)
* Rebounds: 37
* Assists: 9
* Turnovers: 15
* Steals: 6
* Blocks: 6
* Total Fouls: 17
Western KY (AWAY):
* Field Goals: 25/62 (40.0%)
* 2-Point FG: 20/43 (46.5%)
* 3-Point FG: 5/19 (26.0%)
* Free Throws: 13/22 (59.0%)
* Rebounds: 42
* Assists: 11
* Turnovers: 10
* Steals: 13
* Blocks: 4
* Total Fouls: 15
The final score was Western Kentucky's first win in the conference, while UTEP fell to 1-2 against conference opponents.