FIU defeats UTEP 76-64
FIU Edges UTEP in Thrilling Conference Matchup
The Ocean Bank Convocation Center was electric on Tuesday night as FIU (Home) defeated visiting UTEP 76-64 in a hard-fought conference matchup.
The game was a testament to the resilience of both teams, with UTEP holding an early 29-30 lead at halftime. However, it was FIU that would ultimately emerge victorious, erasing the deficit and taking control of the contest.
Corey Stephenson led the way for FIU, scoring 17 points on 54.5% shooting from the field. Eric Dibami chipped in with a double-double, grabbing 10 rebounds and contributing 15 points off the bench. Ashton Williamson dished out three assists and scored 10 points to round out the FIU trio of top performers.
Meanwhile, UTEP's Kaseem Watson was unstoppable from beyond the arc, sinking five threes en route to 25 points. Jamal West Jr. provided a solid supporting act for the visiting team, grabbing eight rebounds and scoring eight points.
In terms of overall performance, both teams struggled with efficiency on offense. FIU shot 51.0% from the field, while UTEP managed just 35.0%. However, it was the Panthers' ability to capitalize on their possessions that ultimately proved decisive, as they scored 20 fast-break points and held a significant advantage in points off turnovers (13-9).
The largest lead of the game came when FIU took an 15-point advantage with just over 10 minutes remaining. UTEP would eventually claw back, but the deficit was too great to overcome.
Advanced Statistics
FIU's true shooting percentage was an impressive 56.8%, while their effective field goal percentage (eFG%) sat at 53.6%. The Panthers also demonstrated excellent rebounding efficiency, grabbing 41 boards on the defensive end. In contrast, UTEP struggled with turnovers, committing 12 against just 13 for FIU.
The game served as a reminder that conference matchups often come down to the smallest details. For both teams, it was a night to remember, and one that will have lasting implications for their playoff aspirations.
In the end, it was FIU's ability to overcome adversity and capitalize on its possessions that proved too much for UTEP. The Panthers' victory marked a significant turning point in conference play, and one that will likely have reverberations throughout the season.