UTEP defeats MTSU 83-80

UTEP Edges MTSU in Thrilling 83-80 Upset

In a dramatic turn of events, UTEP (Don Haskins Center) stunned visiting team MTSU (25-4), 83-80, in Conference action on Friday night. The Miners' come-from-behind victory marked their first win over the Blue Raiders this season and will undoubtedly send shockwaves throughout the conference.

With a 7-point deficit at halftime, UTEP erased the gap with ease, outscoring MTSU 36-29 in the second half. Kaseem Watson led the Miners' charge, pouring in 23 points on 5-for-8 three-point shooting (46.7% FG). The junior guard's clutch shooting helped UTEP stay ahead, as they built a 4-point lead with just over two minutes remaining.

Meanwhile, MTSU's Sean Smith struggled to find his range, scoring only 16 points on 1-for-2 three-point shooting (71.4% FG). Despite the effort from Carter and Smith, the Blue Raiders were unable to overcome the deficit.

The game was marked by strong rebounding efforts from both teams. UTEP outrebounded MTSU 38-32, with LA Hayes leading the way with 10 rebounds and 10 points. For MTSU, Jahvin Carter grabbed 8 rebounds and chipped in with 6 points and 7 assists.

Advanced statistics revealed a closely contested game, with both teams boasting high true shooting percentages (56.2% for UTEP, 60.2% for MTSU). However, UTEP's edge in effective field goal percentage (eFG%) ultimately proved decisive, as they shot 50.0% to MTSU's 55.1%.

The win marked a significant upset, as MTSU was expected to come out on top in Conference play. The Blue Raiders' loss drops them to 25-4 overall and 11-3 in conference, while UTEP improves to 17-10 (8-6).