The UTEP Miners men’s basketball team battled hard at home Wednesday night but were ultimately defeated 69–59 by the Louisiana Tech Bulldogs in Conference USA action at the Don Haskins Center. The game marked the second meeting of the season between these teams, with LA Tech completing a season sweep over the Miners.
UTEP jumped out to an early lead and appeared poised to set the tone, executing well in the first stretch and building a 13–4 advantage. However, Louisiana Tech responded with a determined surge, turning a UTEP lead into a deficit with a 16–2 run that flipped the momentum. The Bulldogs never trailed again after taking the lead midway through the first half.
At halftime, Louisiana Tech held a 36–27 lead and carried that advantage into the second half. The Bulldogs continued their balanced offensive effort and high-energy rebounding — finishing with a 41–28 advantage on the boards — which helped them control the pace and limit UTEP’s second-chance opportunities.
UTEP rallied in the second half, cutting the deficit to just three points at 61–58 with about four and a half minutes to play. A late surge from the Bulldogs, however, extended their lead on key free throws and defensive stops that sealed the victory for Louisiana Tech.
Stat Leaders — UTEP vs Louisiana Tech
Elijah Jones led the Miners in scoring with 25 points and added two steals, pacing UTEP’s offensive effort. Kaseem Watson contributed 20 points, showcasing his scoring ability from both inside and beyond the arc. Jamal West Jr. finished with a strong all-around performance, posting 10 points, 11 rebounds, and two steals for the Miners.
For Louisiana Tech, DJ Dudley paced the Bulldogs with 20 points and five rebounds, while Scooter Williams Jr. added 14 points and five boards. Avery Thomas II recorded a double-double with 12 points and 11 rebounds, and AJ Bates directed the offense with seven assists.
Looking Ahead
With the loss, UTEP’s record now sits at 7–14 overall and 3–7 in Conference USA. The Miners will look to regroup and lean on their scoring leaders as they continue CUSA play and aim to climb the conference standings.
