The UTEP Miners men’s basketball team continued to build momentum in Conference USA with two key victories over the Delaware Fightin’ Blue Hens, showcasing both resilience and defensive effort as the season progresses.
On January 15, 2026, UTEP escaped a thrilling road battle with a 70–69 victory in Newark, Delaware. Freshman standout Kaseem Watson delivered 20 points, including clutch free throws with 15 seconds left to lift the Miners, while Jamal West Jr. recorded a double-double with 16 points and 10 rebounds to anchor the effort. Caleb Blackwell chipped in 15 points with efficient shooting from deep, and Elijah Jones added 10 points as UTEP rallied from a first-half deficit to pull out the close win. The game featured multiple lead changes and ended with the Miners executing down the stretch for their first true road conference win of the season.
Just over two weeks later on January 31, 2026, UTEP hosted Delaware at the Don Haskins Center and delivered an even more convincing performance in a 70–55 triumph. Elijah Jones led the Miners with a strong double-double of 15 points and 12 rebounds, pacing UTEP from the outset. Jamal West Jr. continued his steady play with 15 points and six rebounds, and Caleb Blackwell added 10 points and six rebounds, helping UTEP control both ends of the court. UTEP’s defense was particularly stout, holding Delaware to a season-low shooting performance and forcing turnovers that translated into critical fast-break opportunities.
The back-to-back victories over the Hens are timely wins for the Miners (8-14, 4-7 CUSA), demonstrating their ability to respond after close contests and then dominate on home court. Head coach Joe Golding praised the team’s communication, defensive intensity, and execution in both games, highlighting that the Miners are finding ways to finish strong in tight situations and maintain pressure throughout.
As UTEP moves deeper into Conference USA play, these wins over Delaware reinforce the Miners’ confidence and provide a foundation to build on as the schedule intensifies and the push toward postseason positioning continues.
Stat Leaders vs. Delaware
At Delaware (70–69, Jan. 15)
Points: Kaseem Watson – 20
Rebounds: Jamal West Jr. – 10
Three-Point Shooting: Caleb Blackwell – 15 points (4-of-7 from beyond the arc)
Other Contribution: Elijah Jones – 10 points
At Home (70–55, Jan. 31)
Points & Rebounds: Elijah Jones – 15 / 12
Points: Jamal West Jr. – 15
Points & Rebounds: Caleb Blackwell – 10 / 6
