Can UTEP Miners Outmaneuver Middle Tennessee in Murfreesboro?
As the University of Texas at El Paso Miners prepare to face off against the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders at Murphy Athletic Center, fans are eager to see if their team can bounce back from a recent setback. The UTEP Miners, who have shown flashes of brilliance this season, will need to tap into that potential as they travel to Murfreesboro for their upcoming game.
In their last encounter on January 13th against Florida International Panthers, the Miners fell short with a final score of 62-83. Despite an impressive number of steals (12) and a commendable free throw percentage (77 percent), turnovers proved costly for UTEP as they gave up possession 21 times. This was compounded by a lackluster three-point shooting performance, making only three out of fourteen attempts – a mere 21 percent success rate.
However, it's not all doom and gloom for the Miners. A previous game on January 6th saw them triumph over New Mexico State Aggies with an impressive scoreline of 81-72. Their field goal percentage stood strong at 56 percent and they excelled beyond the arc hitting an astonishing 70 percent from three-point land. Moreover, their points off turnovers were equal to those conceded – both standing at 18 – showing that when in form, UTEP can effectively capitalize on opponents' mistakes.
The most convincing display came against Southern Utah Thunderbirds on December 30th where the Miners dominated with an overwhelming victory scoring 89 points while holding their opponents to just 62. The team showcased its depth with significant contributions across the board: solid defense leading to nine steals; efficient ball movement resulting in eighteen assists; and dominance inside painting a picture of control as they racked up fifty-two points in paint.
For UTEP fans looking ahead to January 18th's clash, there is reason for cautious optimism. To emerge victorious against MTU, it is imperative that UTEP tightens up ball security and improves its assist-to-turnover ratio which stood out during their win over Southern Utah (1.64). Additionally, replicating their formidable shooting accuracy from past games could be key in overcoming MTU's home-court advantage.
The upcoming game promises excitement and is set for tip-off at Murphy Athletic Center on January 18th at precisely five o'clock PM Central Time Zone (-06:00 GMT). Fans unable or preferring not to make the journey can still catch all action live where coverage will be available through official broadcast partners.